Failing to show up for jury duty in Florida without a valid excuse can lead to fines, being held in contempt of court, community service, or even jail time. Florida law takes jury service seriously—ignoring your summons can result in both legal penalties and disruption to the justice system.
Below, we’ve outlined the consequences, your legal responsibilities, and your options if you’re unable to attend.
Consequences of Not Appearing for Jury Duty
Failure to Appear
Under Florida Statute § 40.23, a person who fails to attend jury duty after being summoned may be fined up to $100. However, if the court believes the absence was intentional or willful, it can escalate the matter by holding you in contempt of court. This can carry much harsher penalties, including:
- Additional fines up to $1,000
- Mandatory community service
- Jail time for serious or repeat violations
If this is your first time missing jury duty, the court may allow you to reschedule without immediate penalty, especially if you act quickly to rectify the situation. Ignoring further communications, however, will significantly worsen the outcome.
Common Barriers and How to Handle Them
Misplacing or Not Receiving a Jury Summons
If you accidentally threw away, misplaced, or never received your jury summons, you should immediately contact your county’s jury services department. Ignorance of the summons is not always accepted as a defense, but courts generally offer leniency if you act in good faith and respond as soon as you become aware of the situation.
In some cases, your name may have been selected through the DMV or voter registration rolls, and your contact information may be outdated. It’s always a good idea to ensure your mailing address is current with both agencies.
Transportation Issues
If you don’t have reliable transportation, some counties may provide options to help you attend, such as public transportation passes or ride assistance for those with disabilities. You should call your jury office ahead of time to explain your situation. In rural counties where public transit is limited, this issue may be grounds for excusal or postponement.
Language Barriers
If you are not comfortable understanding or speaking English, you can request to be excused from jury service. In Florida, English proficiency is a requirement for jurors. You may be asked to submit a written request or complete a form stating that your language skills are insufficient for jury service. Courts are generally accommodating in these cases.
Jury Duty Logistics and What to Expect
Jury Duty Duration
A typical day of jury duty in Florida lasts one full business day. If you’re not selected for a trial, you may be dismissed after a few hours. However, if you are selected as a juror, the trial could last anywhere from a day to several weeks depending on its complexity.
Jurors are usually informed during selection if the case is expected to be a long one, allowing you to voice any conflicts or hardships before being chosen. If selected, you must attend every day of the trial unless officially excused.
Jury Selection Process
The process begins with jury orientation, where you’ll learn about your duties and courtroom procedures. Afterward, you’ll go through voir dire, a process where the attorneys and judge ask questions to assess whether you can serve impartially. If selected, you will be sworn in and serve on the trial. If not, you may return to the jury pool for possible selection on another case that day.
Who Qualifies for Jury Duty in Florida?
Juror Qualifications
To serve as a juror in Florida, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a legal resident of Florida and of the county where you are summoned
- Be fluent in English
- Not have a felony conviction, unless your civil rights have been restored
- Not be currently under legal guardianship
Failure to meet any of these qualifications can be grounds for excusal. You may need to provide documentation or fill out an exemption form if you’re deemed ineligible.
Valid Reasons for Jury Excusal or Postponement
Valid Excuses for Missing Jury Duty
Florida law recognizes several valid reasons for excusal from jury duty, including:
- Medical issues that prevent you from sitting for long periods or participating effectively (must provide a doctor’s note)
- Full-time students (ages 18–21) who are enrolled in college or technical school
- Primary caregivers for dependents with special needs or children under 6 years old
- Financial hardship if serving would result in significant income loss
- Military service, particularly if deployed or serving out of the area
- Age: Individuals aged 70 or older may request to be excused without explanation
Courts are typically understanding when a valid excuse is presented respectfully and supported by documentation.
Requesting and Confirming Postponement or Excusal
To request a postponement or excusal:
- Submit your request as soon as possible (ideally at least 3 business days before your service date)
- Use your local court’s jury services portal or contact them via phone or mail
- Follow up for confirmation via email or postal mail before assuming your request has been granted
Failure to confirm approval could result in being marked as absent, which may trigger penalties. Always document your request and follow up promptly.
Long Trials and Employment Concerns
Addressing Long Trials
Some trials may last longer than the typical one- to two-day duration. If this presents a hardship, such as job conflicts, pre-planned travel, or caregiving obligations, you can express these concerns during voir dire. Courts often excuse jurors who demonstrate that extended service would cause undue hardship.
Employers are legally prohibited from firing or penalizing you for serving jury duty. However, they are not required to pay you for time missed. Florida courts may pay a small daily stipend, especially after the first three days of service.
Why Jury Duty Matters
Fulfilling Your Civil Duty Is Essential
Serving on a jury is one of the most direct ways citizens participate in the justice system. Jurors help ensure fair trials, uphold constitutional rights, and make decisions that can impact lives. While it may feel like an inconvenience, it is a civic responsibility that protects the integrity of the legal process.
Skipping jury duty without valid cause not only risks legal consequences but also undermines the collective effort to maintain justice. Every eligible juror plays a vital role in this process.
What to Do If You Missed Jury Duty
If you unintentionally missed your scheduled jury service:
- Contact the jury department immediately to explain your absence
- Request to reschedule as soon as possible—courts often allow a one-time grace period
- Document your communication in case legal action is taken
- Consult a lawyer if you’ve received a formal failure to appear notice or summons to court
Acting quickly and in good faith can often prevent harsh penalties. Ignoring the issue can escalate it.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve missed jury duty, need help requesting an excusal, or are dealing with a court summons, The Law Office of James M. Burns is here to help. Our Escambia County Criminal Defense Lawyer provide experienced legal guidance to protect your rights and resolve your legal obligations efficiently.
Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the help you need before your situation worsens.