Is It Possible To Get Out of Jury Duty?

Jury duty is a civic obligation that ensures fair trials for those facing legal proceedings. Courts in Seattle, Washington, expect citizens to participate, but there are legal ways to defer or be excused from serving. Ignoring a jury summons without taking the proper steps can lead to penalties, so understanding your options is crucial.

How to Get Out of Jury Duty in Seattle

Washington allows individuals to request exemptions from jury duty under specific circumstances. Some of the most common reasons for being excused in Seattle, WA, are:

• Medical exemptions: You can request an exemption if you have a serious health condition that prevents you from serving. Documentation, such as a doctor’s note, may be required to support your claim.
• Financial hardship: You may request an excuse if serving would cause significant financial difficulty—especially for hourly workers or self-employed individuals. The court will assess the level of hardship before granting an exemption.
• Dependent care responsibilities: Primary caregivers for children or dependent adults may qualify for an exemption if no alternative care is available during jury service. Supporting documentation may be required.
• Student or work conflicts: Full-time students and professionals with essential job obligations can request deferrals or exemptions. However, a court cannot excuse jurors solely because of their profession.
• Language barriers or disabilities: Jurors must be able to understand and communicate in English or American Sign Language. If you have a language barrier or disability that prevents you from serving, you can request an exemption or accommodations.

It’s important to provide appropriate documentation and communicate with the court to ensure your request is considered. Always check with the Seattle court system for specific guidelines and requirements to determine if you qualify for an exemption.

Don’t Skip Jury Duty – Postpone It When Possible

If you do not qualify for an exemption but have a scheduling conflict, you may request to defer your jury service. In King County, jurors can reschedule their service to a later term through the Juror Portal. You may postpone service up to two times within 12 months. If you defer to a date less than four weeks after your original jury term, you may not receive a new summons in the mail. You should confirm your rescheduled date through the Juror Portal and bring your original summons when reporting to court.

What Happens If You Ignore a Jury Duty Summons?

Not showing up for jury duty will likely have legal consequences. Under Washington law, individuals who intentionally fail to appear for jury duty may be charged with a misdemeanor. Consequences may include fines or contempt of court charges. If you cannot serve, requesting an exemption or deferral rather than ignoring the summons is best. 

How to Avoid Jury Duty Without Breaking the Law

If it is necessary to avoid jury duty, follow these legal steps:

• Check eligibility requirements: Only U.S. citizens at least 18 years old and residents of the county where they were summoned are required to serve. If you no longer live in King County, you can indicate your ineligibility in the Juror Portal.
• Request an exemption: If you have a valid reason, such as a medical condition, financial issues, or caretaker obligations, request an exemption through the portal before your scheduled service date.
• Defer service: If your schedule does not allow you to serve at the given time, defer your jury duty to a later term.

Most importantly, be honest during jury selection. If you have strong opinions about legal matters that may affect your ability to be impartial, attorneys may dismiss you from serving on a case.

Jury Duty and Compensation in Washington

Washington law does not require employers to pay employees during jury service, but many companies voluntarily provide paid leave. Jurors receive $10 daily for service, mileage, bus fare, or ferry reimbursement. However, other forms of transportation, such as rideshares, are not reimbursed. If you are collecting unemployment benefits, jury compensation must be reported and deducted from your benefits.

Getting Out of Jury Duty

Serving as a juror is essential, but legitimate reasons exist for being excused. Whether you need an exemption, a deferral, or eligibility verification, following the proper legal channels is better than ignoring a jury summons. Check the Juror Portal for updates, exemptions, or deferral requests if summoned. If you do miss jury duty illegally, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Most personal injury attorneys offer a free consultation, so you have nothing to lose.

Contact an Experienced Seattle Personal Injury Attorney For Help With Your Claim

If you’ve been injured in Seattle, WA, and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Contact our legal team and schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer today. We proudly serve King County in Washington and it’s surrounding areas. Visit our law office at:

Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
2101 4th Ave 1030 Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 727 4000
Hours: Open 24/7