Missing jury duty may seem like a minor oversight, but in California, failure to appear for scheduled jury service can result in escalating legal consequences. Whether the notice was misplaced, forgotten, or missed due to an unexpected event, it is important to understand what happens if you miss jury duty and the appropriate steps to correct the issue.
California regards jury service as a civic duty, and courts expect every prospective juror to respond in a timely and responsible manner. Before consequences are imposed, courts generally provide an opportunity to address the missed appearance.
What Happens if You Miss Jury Duty?
When an individual fails to appear for the date indicated on a summons, the court typically follows a structured escalation process rather than imposing immediate sanctions. The court’s response generally progresses through three stages:
1. First Missed Appearance
In most counties, the initial missed date results in a warning notice or the issuance of a second summons. This provides another opportunity to appear without penalty.
2. Failure to Respond to the Second Summons
If the individual does not respond to the subsequent notice, the court may schedule an Order to Show Cause hearing. At this hearing, the individual must explain the reason for failure to appear.
3. Continued Non-Compliance
If the court’s order is ignored, penalties can be imposed, and the individual may face a fine or a finding of contempt.
Understanding what happens when you miss jury duty allows individuals to respond before the matter escalates. If you believe your situation may require legal guidance, you may consult with a qualified Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at any stage of the process.
Legal Penalties for Missing Jury Duty in California
Failure to appear for jury service is a violation of California Code of Civil Procedure § 209. Potential penalties include:
Fines
Courts may impose fines ranging from $250 to $1,500, depending on the county and the number of missed appearances.
Contempt of Court
Repeated failure to respond or appear may result in a finding of contempt of court, which carries additional sanctions at the discretion of the judge.
Possibility of Jail Time
Although rare, persistent and willful disregard of jury summons or court orders may lead to jail time. This usually occurs only when an individual repeatedly refuses to comply with mandatory jury service obligations.
These consequences underscore the importance of addressing missed jury service promptly.
How to Notify the Court if You Cannot Attend Jury Duty
Not every individual is able to attend on the originally assigned date. Courts understand this and provide procedures to request a postponement or an excusal when justified.
California courts generally permit individuals to notify the jury commissioner when circumstances legitimately prevent attendance. Acceptable reasons may include:
- Documented medical conditions
- Recent surgery or hospitalization
- Illness that prevents participation
- Demonstrated financial hardship
- Prepaid travel arrangements
- Disability-related limitations
- Caregiving responsibilities
- Military service obligations
- Prior jury service within the last twelve months
Documentation may be required, depending on the county and the nature of the request.
How to Contact the Court
Individuals may contact the court by:
- Telephone
- Online jury portals
- Email, if permitted by the county
- Submitting written documentation by mail or fax
Courts encourage prompt communication so that the individual remains eligible to serve at a later date.
Difference Between Missing Jury Duty and Requesting a Postponement
A missed appearance and a formal postponement request are treated very differently:
- Missing jury duty involves failure to appear without advance notice, which may lead to penalties.
- Requesting a postponement is a lawful procedure that allows the juror to defer service without consequences, provided the request is made before the reporting date.
Most courts allow at least one postponement, typically requiring that the rescheduled date fall within six months. Additional postponements may require written justification.
A postponement preserves compliance, while a failure to appear can expose the individual to increased penalties.
Tips to Avoid Problems with Jury Duty
The following practices can reduce the likelihood of difficulties with your summons:
- Review mail regularly for official notices.
- Immediately respond to the summons through the listed communication options.
- Maintain records of any excusal or postponement requests.
- Use reminders or calendars to track reporting dates.
- Contact the jury office if there is uncertainty about your obligations.
Proactive communication is the most reliable way to maintain compliance and avoid legal penalties.
In Summary
Missing jury duty in California can lead to escalating consequences, including fines and, in limited situations, findings of contempt. Courts generally provide opportunities to correct missed appearances before imposing penalties, but continued failure to respond may result in more serious outcomes.
If you have already missed jury duty or received a notice from the court regarding your failure to appear, timely action is essential.
For guidance on how to proceed or to address a court order, consult a knowledgeable Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at Manshoory Law Group. The firm can assist you in understanding your obligations and resolving any legal concerns related to missed jury service.