What to Say When Calling About Jury Duty

Last updated: March 19, 2026

Why this call feels hard

There's something uniquely intimidating about anything involving the court system. The summons arrives with official language, a juror number, and the implied threat of penalties if you don't show up. About 32 million Americans receive a jury summons each year (National Center for State Courts), and most people have the same questions: Can I postpone? Do I have to go? What happens if I can't? The answers are almost always more flexible than the summons makes it sound. Court clerks handle these calls all day, and a straightforward phone call can resolve most scheduling issues in a few minutes.

Before you call

• Have your summons in hand — you'll need your juror number, the reporting date, and the court name. The phone number to call is printed on the summons itself.
• Check the court's website first — many courts let you postpone or confirm your service online. You may not even need to call.
• Know your reason — for a postponement, have specific dates you're unavailable and a general reason (travel, medical, childcare, work conflict). For an exemption, know what your grounds are.
• Check your employer's jury duty policy — some employers pay full salary during jury service, others pay partial or nothing. This matters if you're considering a financial hardship exemption.

Script: Postponing jury duty

Most courts grant one postponement without much pushback. You'll typically be rescheduled 3 to 6 months out. The clerk may give you a new date on the spot or mail you a revised summons. Ask for a confirmation number or reference so you have a record of the change.

Script: Asking about scheduling and what to expect

Many courts have a call-in system or website where you check the evening before to see if you actually need to report. If your group number isn't called, you don't go in. Ask about this — it's not always obvious from the summons. Also ask about what to bring (ID, the summons) and what's not allowed (some courts restrict phones).

Script: Financial hardship exemption

Financial hardship exemptions vary by jurisdiction. Some courts grant them over the phone; others require a written request or documentation. Jury pay is notoriously low — often $15 to $50 per day depending on the state — so if your employer doesn't cover the difference, the hardship is real. Be honest and specific about the financial impact.

If they say no

• Ask about postponement instead of exemption. If they won't excuse you entirely, a postponement to a less disruptive time may still help: "If an exemption isn't possible, could I at least postpone to [month]?"
• Ask about shortened service. Many courts now use "one day or one trial" systems, meaning you serve for one day unless you're selected for a trial. Ask: "Is this a one-day-or-one-trial court?"
• Request the process in writing. If you want to formally appeal, ask: "Can you tell me the process for submitting a written hardship request? Is there a form I need to fill out?"
• Don't just skip it. Ignoring a jury summons can result in fines or a contempt of court order. If you genuinely can't serve, go through the proper channels.

Tips

• Call as soon as you get the summons. Don't wait until the week before your reporting date. The sooner you call, the more scheduling flexibility the court has.
• Be polite and straightforward. Court clerks deal with people who are angry about jury duty all day. A calm, respectful tone goes a long way — and they're more likely to help you find a workable solution.
• Know that most people aren't selected. Even if you report for jury duty, there's a good chance you'll be dismissed during voir dire (jury selection) and sent home the same day. It's often less disruptive than people expect.