Jury duty in Texas is mandatory, backed by state law and rooted in the constitutional promise of a trial by jury. Missing a summons can trigger fines, contempt proceedings, or even jail, yet many Texans skip because of anxiety, confusion, or unexpected conflicts. This page explains exactly what happens if you miss jury duty, why the state treats non-attendance seriously, and—most important—how you can fix a mistake before penalties escalate. You will also learn who qualifies for exemptions, how to reschedule responsibly, and what protections exist for your job and income. Read on for clear next steps and compassionate guidance.
Mandatory Nature of Jury Duty in Texas
Jury duty in Texas is a legal obligation.
Texas Government Code § 62.013 requires every qualified resident to appear when summoned, reinforcing that juries keep the justice system democratic and fair.
Texas courts treat attendance with the same seriousness as any court order. Failing to show undermines the right of litigants to a jury of their peers and delays trials already crowded on county dockets. Because community participation is essential, judges rarely accept “too busy” as a valid excuse.
Qualifications and Exemptions
Texas sets clear eligibility rules for jury service.
To serve you must be:
- 18 years or older
- A U.S. citizen
- A resident of the county issuing the summons
- Able to read and write
- Free of felony convictions (unless civil rights have been restored)
- Not served on a jury in the previous time limit (typically 24 months for county, 36 months for district)
Common Exemptions
Valid exemptions remove the legal duty completely:
- Age 70+
- Primary caregiver for a child under 12 or an incapacitated person
- Full-time student living outside your county during the semester
- Medical condition that makes service impossible (doctor’s letter required)
- Active-duty military stationed outside the county
- Legislative personnel during a session
Exemptions are not automatic; you must claim them by the deadline on your summons and provide any requested documentation.
What Happens If You Miss Jury Duty?
Missing jury duty is contempt of court.
Under Texas Government Code § 62.0141, skipping a summons without excuse empowers judges to fine or jail offenders.
Penalties at a Glance
| Violation | Typical Fine | Possible Jail |
|---|---|---|
| Ignoring the questionnaire or first notice | $100 – $1,000 | None |
| Failing to appear on the scheduled date | $100 – $500 | Up to 3 days |
| Repeat or willful contempt | Additional $100 – $1,000 | Up to 6 months |
Fines and Jail for Contempt
A contempt finding can trigger a bench warrant, a show-cause hearing, or both. At the hearing the judge asks why you failed to appear, reviews any proof, and decides whether to impose fines, community service, or jail. Jail is uncommon but remains on the table, especially for repeat non-compliance.
First Offense vs. Repeat Offense
Judges often issue a second summons or warning for a first missed date, particularly if you call promptly to explain. Ignoring a second notice, however, signals disrespect for the court and sharply increases the chance of stiff fines or confinement.
Texas Court Procedures After a Missed Date
Courts follow a structured response when someone no-shows.
The clerk normally sends a show-cause order requiring you to appear on a new date and explain yourself. Failure to answer can lead to a capias (bench warrant) authorizing law enforcement to detain you until you see the judge.
Many counties offer online or phone options to request a reset once you realize the mistake. Acting within 24–48 hours of the missed date often convinces the judge to clear contempt and simply move you to a new panel.
Rescheduling and Deferrals
Texas courts allow reasonable postponements.
You may request one deferral—commonly up to six months—for documented travel, medical treatments, urgent work deadlines, or family obligations.
Steps to Reschedule
- Use the online portal, phone, or postcard instructions on your summons.
- State the specific reason and provide proof (doctor’s note, itinerary, employer letter).
- Propose alternate dates within the allowable window.
- Keep confirmation of your new date; bring it to court when you appear.
Ignoring your first date when a deferral would have been granted is the fastest route to contempt.
Exemptions and Valid Excuses
Certain life situations waive service altogether.
Exemptions differ from deferrals because they excuse you permanently (or for an entire term).
- Age 70+ – Opt-out is automatic but must be claimed.
- Recent jury service – If you served in the past 24–36 months (depending on court level), you can decline.
- Permanent disability – A physician’s certificate triggers removal from the rolls.
- Primary caregiver status – Must show no reasonable substitute caregiver.
- Students or soldiers – Written verification from school or commanding officer required.
Mere inconvenience, job pressure, or lack of interest does not qualify. Courts expect sworn statements to be truthful; false claims invite contempt charges.
Compensation and Employment Protections
Texas protects employees who serve as jurors.
Employers may not discharge, threaten, or penalize you for attending jury service. If they do, you can sue for reinstatement and lost wages.
Pay and Reimbursement
- First day: $6 jury fee
- Subsequent days: $40 – $58 (varies by county)
- Mileage or parking: Small stipend in some counties
Texas law does not require employers to pay your regular wages while you serve, but many voluntarily offer paid civic-duty leave.
Uncommon Case Scenarios (Examples)
Real Texas cases show how outcomes vary.
- Missed Second Summons
A resident ignored two consecutive jury dates. At a show-cause hearing the judge fined him $500 and issued a suspended three-day jail sentence, contingent on future compliance. - Emergency Absence
A single parent rushed a child to the ER the morning of jury duty. Hospital records proved the emergency, and the judge excused the absence with a simple reschedule. - False Exemption Claim
A potential juror forged a doctor’s note. Court staff verified the deception, leading to a $1,000 fine and a public contempt admonishment. - Nonresident Ticket
A person who had moved out of state ignored mail forwarding. When a traffic stop revealed an outstanding bench warrant, he had to post a bond and return to Texas to prove relocation. - Federal vs. State Court No-Show
A federal jury no-show resulted in U.S. Marshals detaining the juror for a same-day hearing—stricter than most state responses—illustrating that federal courts act swiftly on contempt.
These vignettes highlight the range of judicial discretion and the critical role of honest communication.
Sample Q & A
Integrate quick answers throughout your reading:
What happens if I forget to report?
Contact the clerk immediately, explain, and request a reset. Quick action often avoids fines.
Can the court arrest me for missing jury duty?
Yes. A judge may issue a bench warrant for deliberate non-attendance.
How long can I postpone service?
Most counties allow one deferral up to six months, subject to approval.
Am I required to serve if I’m a student or soldier?
Students living away and active-duty military outside the county qualify for exemptions with documentation.
Will my job be protected?
Texas law bars employers from punishing employees for jury service, though wages are not guaranteed.
Who pays my jury fee?
The county pays the statutory daily stipend; employers may supplement but are not required.
Do they drug-test jurors?
No. Routine drug testing is not part of jury selection.