Why is Jury Service important?

The United States Constitution and the Texas Constitution guarantee all people, regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, or economic status, the right to trial by an impartial jury.

What is my duty as a Juror?

As a juror, you must be fair and impartial. Your actions and decisions must be free of any bias or prejudice. Your actions and decisions are the foundation of our judicial system.

How was I selected?

You were selected at random from a list of voter registrations and a list of driver registrations from the county in which you live.

Who can be excused from Jury Service?

You are entitled to be excused as a juror if you:

Are over 75 years of age;
Have legal custody of a child under 12 years of age and jury service would leave the child unsupervised;
Are a student at a public, private high school or enrolled and attend college.
Are the primary caretaker of a person who is unable to care for themselves (an invalid). (This exemption does not apply to health care workers); or
Can show a physical or mental impairment or an inability to comprehend or to communicate in English.

See the back of your jury summons for other exemptions

What if I have a disability?

If you have a special need or disability you are encouraged to notify the court immediately concerning requests for reasonable accommodation.

How can I reschedule my Jury Services?

To request a reschedule, click here.

How do I dress for Jury Services?

All persons entering the courtroom should be dress in clothing reasonably befitting the dignity and solemnity of the court proceedings. Tank-tops, shorts, muscle shirts, hats, and bare feet are NOT permitted.

What are the basic Courtroom Etiquette rules?

Arrive on time for Jury Service
Proper clothing required
No food and/or drinks in the courtroom
Turn off electronic devices and cell phones before entering the courtroom
Maintain common courtesy and politeness in the courtroom

Will I be subject to search when entering the court facility?

To ensure the safety of everyone at the courthouse, expect to be screened through a metal detector. Firearms (even if you have a permit), pocket knives, "leatherman" type multi-use tools, scissors, knitting needles and other pointed or sharp items are not allowed in the courthouse. Anything considered to be a weapon or that is deemed unacceptable by the security staff will be confiscated.

What should I do if I lose my Jury Duty Summons?

If you have lost or misplaced your jury summons, you must contact the court through one of the following methods:

Phone: 817-459-6777
Email: Jury@arlingtontx.gov, or
In person, during regular business hours: 101 S. Mesquite St., Arlington, TX 76010.

A staff member will provide you with the juror information available.

What happens if I don't show up?

Any person summoned who fails to attend or who fails to remain in attendance until discharged by the court may be fined an amount not to exceed $100 for contempt (Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 45.027). Additionally, a person shall be fined not less than $10 nor more than $100 if the person: (1) fails to attend court in obedience to the notice without reasonable excuse; or (2) files a false claim of exemption from jury service (Government Code, Section 62.111).

I was out of town or received my Jury Notice late, what can I do?

You are allowed to reschedule your jury service two times in a 12 month period, for any reason. Click here to reschedule.

What should I do if I receive a Summons for a deceased family member?

We apologize if you have received a jury summons addressed to family member who has passed away. If you have received a juror summons for a deceased relative from the City of Arlington Municipal Court, you may email the Court at Jury@arlingtontx.gov and we will update our records. Please provide the individual’s Full Name, Juror Number, and Date of Jury Service, and indicate that the individual is deceased in your email. This information is located on the summons. You may also write “Deceased” on the summons and return it to the Court via U.S. Mail.

Will I be paid for being a Juror?

Yes, if you are selected to the jury panel, you will be paid $10.00 for each day you actually serve.

Can I donate my Jury Duty pay?

Yes, there are several organizations that you can donate your jury duty pay to. Please ask the court clerk for a donation form when you arrive for your jury service.

Must my employer pay me while I am on Jury Duty?

Your employer is not required to pay you while on jury duty; however, employers are prohibited by law from firing an employee for serving as a Juror.

Are there rules about Jury conduct?

Yes. The Texas Supreme Court has rules to assist you in your conduct as a Juror which will be given to you by the Judge.

What if I have previously served on a jury panel in Tarrant County?

Defendant may request an exemption if defendant have served on a jury in the county (i.e. Tarrant County) during a 24-month period prior to the date defendant are required to appear for this summons.

(Phone representatives are available Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)