Jury duty is a civic responsibility and legal obligation for all eligible citizens. However, many people attempt to get out of serving on a jury for various reasons, and stats show that response rates have declined in recent times to less than 50%. While you may face little consequence for skipping jury duty once, making it a habit can lead to punishments. Here’s an overview of what can happen if you fail to show up for jury service.

Fines and Fees

If you ignore your jury summons and do not show up when called to serve, the court may charge you a no-show fee. The amount varies by state and county but usually ranges from $100 to $1,000. You will receive an invoice in the mail requiring you to pay this fee.

In some cases, the court will issue a contempt of court charge instead of or in addition to a fine. Contempt charges can lead to fines of $1,000 or more and even jail time in severe instances. Courts can also charge you for any expenses incurred because you failed to appear, like compensation for the court’s time and effort spent rescheduling.

Bench Warrant

If you continue to disregard notices to appear for jury duty after receiving a fine or contempt charge, the court may issue a bench warrant. This is an order requiring law enforcement to arrest you and bring you before the court to explain your absence.

When a bench warrant is issued, you may be taken into custody at home, work, or during a routine traffic stop if the warrant comes up. You will be detained until your court date and obligated to explain your failure to appear to a judge. The judge can then determine additional fines or even jail time as punishment.

Jail Time

While uncommon, judges have the power to sentence people who repeatedly skip jury duty to jail for contempt of court. Jail time is typically only pursued in extreme cases of defiance. The amount of time served can range from 1-3 days for first time offenders up to 6 months or more if you have a history of ignoring jury notices.

The judge can also place you on probation and require you to serve on the next jury you are called for. If you violate that probation by skipping again, you may face the maximum jail sentence. Jail time is rare but serves as a powerful motivator for chronic jury duty skippers.

If you feel you have legitimate reasons for skipping out on jury duty but are facing severe penalties, speak with criminal defense attorneys for advice.

Ineligibility for Government Benefits

In some jurisdictions, those who fail to appear for jury service may become ineligible for certain government benefits and programs. For instance, the state may suspend your driver’s license or refuse to renew your passport or state ID until you comply with jury duty obligations. Some states even withhold unemployment benefits or bar participation in welfare programs for those with outstanding jury fines and fees.

While skipping jury duty just once likely carries minimal penalties, those who make a habit of it can face compounding punishments. Fines, arrest, jail time, and loss of government benefits await repeat offenders. If you must miss your scheduled service, always contact the court immediately and follow proper procedures to defer rather than simply not show up. With due notice and a valid excuse, you can usually reschedule jury duty without consequence.