Jury duty refers to a court summons requiring the presence of an individual to participate in the civic responsibility of serving as part of a panel that will decide the facts during a legal proceeding. It is a fundamental part of the criminal and civil justice system. If you need to get out of jury duty for any reason, it is important to do so through the right channels. Make sure to speak with an experienced San Antonio personal injury lawyer for legal guidance.
Automatic Exemptions to Jury Duty in San Antonio
First, determine if your circumstances classify you as someone who is automatically exempt from jury duty in your county. Exemptions vary slightly depending on which county you live in. In Bexar County, the following situations allow an individual to request automatic jury duty exemption:
- Being over the age of 75.
- Having legal custody of one or more children under the age of 12 years old, if serving on a jury would mean leaving the children without adequate supervision.
- Being a student of a public or private high school or in actual attendance at an institution of higher education (must show proof of enrollment).
- Working as an officer or employee of the Senate, House of Representatives or any department in the legislative branch of the state government.
- Acting as the primary caretaker of a person who is unable to care for himself or herself (not applicable to health care workers).
- Having served as a juror in the Bexar County courts or district courts within the last 36 months.
- Being an active member of the United States military, serving on active duty and being deployed away from the person’s county of residence.
Filing a false claim of exemption from jury duty service in San Antonio can result in penalties such as a fine of up to $100 under Government Code § 62.111. Failing to respond to a summons at all can lead to being held in contempt of court, with a fine of no less than $100 and no more than $1,000 (§ 62.0141).
Other Reasons to Request Excusal or Deferment
Even if none of the automatic exemptions in Bexar County apply to you, you may still be able to request a jury duty exemption for other accepted reasons. With proper proof or documentation, you may be able to avoid jury duty if it will cause you serious financial hardship, if you no longer live in the county that summoned you, or if you have a physical or mental condition that does not make it possible for you to serve.
How to Submit Your Request to Get Out of Jury Duty in San Antonio
If you wish to get out of jury duty in Bexar County, you must take the correct steps to officially claim an exemption. Your request must be approved by the Bexar County courts. To claim an exemption, complete the form provided in your jury summons. Give the reason for the desired exemption and provide any required proof.
Sign the form and mail it to the following address (or take it in person):
- Central Jury Bailiff
Bexar County Justice Center
300 Dolorosa/Basement
San Antonio, TX 78205-3006
If you do not file the correct paperwork or your request is not approved, you are still responsible for adhering to your jury duty summons. Failing to do so can lead to legal consequences. If you need assistance submitting your request or proving the grounds for an exemption, a personal injury attorney in San Antonio can provide guidance and legal assistance.