Sample Letter To Get Out Of Jury Duty

A “Sample Letter To Get Out Of Jury Duty” helps you request an excuse from jury service. Life happens. Sometimes jury duty arrives at the worst possible time. This letter explains why you can’t serve.

We understand writing this letter can be stressful. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with templates and examples. These samples will make the process easier.

Our goal is simple. We want to give you the tools to write a clear and effective letter. Use our samples as a guide. Tailor them to your situation. Get the results you need, quickly and easily.

Contents show

Sample Letter To Get Out Of Jury Duty

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

Jury Services
[Court Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]

Re: Jury Summons – [Your Name] – [Summons Number]

Dear Jury Services,

I am writing to request an excuse from jury duty for the summons I received, number [Summons Number].

[Choose ONE of the following reasons, and explain briefly and clearly. If you have documentation, mention it and say you can provide it. Do not exaggerate.]

(Option 1: Medical)
Due to a medical condition, I am unable to serve on a jury at this time. [Briefly explain the condition without excessive detail. For example: “I have a back problem that makes sitting for extended periods very difficult.”] I can provide a doctor’s note if required.

(Option 2: Caregiving)
I am the primary caregiver for [Name of person], who is [Relationship to you, e.g., my elderly mother], and requires constant care. It would be a significant hardship for me to leave [him/her] without adequate care arrangements.

(Option 3: Financial Hardship)
Serving on jury duty would create a significant financial hardship for me and my family. [Briefly explain. For example: “I am self-employed, and missing work for jury duty would jeopardize my income.”]

(Option 4: Other – extreme hardship, sole business owner with no replacement possible, etc. Be specific and honest.)
Serving on jury duty would present a significant hardship because [Explain your situation clearly and concisely.]

I understand the importance of jury duty and regret any inconvenience my request may cause. I am available to serve at a later date if that is possible.

Thank you for considering my request.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]

How to Write Sample Letter To Get Out Of Jury Duty

Subject Line: A Concise Declaration

Keep it pithy and to the point. Jury Duty Summons – [Your Name] – [Summons Number] does the trick.
A convoluted subject line may lead to misfiling or, worse, being overlooked entirely.

Salutation: Respectful Address

Address the letter to the “Jury Commissioner” or “Clerk of the Court.” Avoid “To Whom It May Concern.”
If a specific name is provided on the summons, use it. “Dear Mr./Ms. [Name]” is always a safe bet.
Maintain a formal tone; this is a legal matter, not a casual missive.

Body Paragraph 1: Identification and Acknowledgment

Begin by unequivocally stating that you received the jury duty summons.
Provide your full name, address, and the summons number. This avoids any ambiguity.
Example: “I am writing in response to the jury duty summons I received on [Date], summons number [Summons Number], addressed to [Your Name] at [Your Address].”

Body Paragraph 2: Articulating Your Reason for Deferral or Excuse

This is the crux of your appeal. Clearly and concisely explain your reason for seeking excusal or deferral.
Be forthright and honest. Fabricating excuses is ill-advised and potentially illegal.
Common valid reasons include: documented medical conditions, being a primary caregiver for a dependent, or demonstrable undue hardship to your business.
If claiming hardship, quantify it. “Serving on jury duty would cause my business to cease operations, resulting in significant financial detriment” is stronger than “It would be hard for my business.”

Body Paragraph 3: Providing Substantiating Documentation

Support your claim with tangible evidence. A doctor’s note, childcare records, or financial statements can bolster your case.
Do not send original documents unless specifically requested. Photocopies or scanned attachments are generally sufficient.
Clearly reference the attached documents in your letter. “Please find attached a letter from my physician, Dr. [Name], corroborating my medical condition.”

Closing: Courteous Conclusion

Reiterate your respect for the judicial process, even as you request to be excused.
Express gratitude for their consideration. A modicum of politeness goes a long way.
Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. I understand the importance of jury duty and regret any inconvenience my request may cause.”

Sign-off: Formal Valediction

Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
Follow with your full name, typed, and your signature above it.
Include your phone number and email address for ease of contact.

Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter To Get Out Of Jury Duty

Navigating jury duty summons can be complex. Here are answers to common questions regarding crafting a request for excusal.

These responses offer general guidance; local court rules always take precedence.

1. What makes a letter to get out of jury duty effective?

An effective letter clearly states the reason for seeking excusal, provides supporting documentation if available, and demonstrates respect for the court.

2. What are some valid reasons for requesting excusal?

Valid reasons often include medical conditions, caretaking responsibilities, or financial hardship that would result from serving.

3. Should I include any documentation with my letter?

Yes, including supporting documentation, such as a doctor’s note or financial statements, can significantly strengthen your request.

4. How should I address the person I’m sending the letter to?

Address the letter to the jury commissioner or the specific individual named on your jury summons using a formal salutation (e.g., “Dear Mr./Ms./Judge [Name]”).