If you’ve been summoned for jury duty but have a valid reason for not being able to serve, you can write a letter to the court to request to be excused. This letter should explain your reason for not being able to serve and provide any supporting documentation.
In this article, we will share some templates and examples of letters to the court to be excused from jury duty. These letters can be used as a starting point for your own letter, and they can help you to ensure that your letter is clear, concise, and persuasive.
Request for Jury Duty Excuse
Dear Clerk of Court,
I am writing to respectfully request to be excused from jury duty for the upcoming trial scheduled for [date]. I understand the importance of jury service and the role it plays in our justice system. However, I have a compelling reason that prevents me from fulfilling this obligation at this time.
I am currently employed as a [your occupation] at [your company]. My responsibilities include [briefly describe your job duties]. The nature of my work requires me to be present at my workplace during regular business hours.
The trial is scheduled to take place during a critical period for my company. I am responsible for [specific project or task], which is essential to the success of our business. My absence from work for an extended period would cause significant disruption and financial loss.
I have explored alternative arrangements with my employer, but it is not possible to reschedule my work commitments. I have also considered seeking a temporary leave of absence, but this would not be feasible given the short notice.
I am aware that jury duty is a civic responsibility, and I am committed to fulfilling it in the future when my schedule permits. However, I believe that the circumstances in this case warrant an exception.
I have attached supporting documentation from my employer that confirms the critical nature of my work and the potential impact of my absence. I would be grateful if you could consider my request and grant me an excuse from jury duty.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Court To Be Excused From Jury Duty
Serving on a jury is an important civic duty, but there are times when you may need to be excused from jury duty. If you have a valid reason for not being able to serve, you can write a letter to the court to request an excusal.
Gather Your Documentation
Before you write your letter, gather any documentation that supports your request for excusal. This may include a doctor’s note, a letter from your employer, or a copy of your travel itinerary.
State Your Reason for Requesting Excusal
In the first paragraph of your letter, state your reason for requesting excusal from jury duty. Be specific and provide details about your situation. For example, you could write:
I am writing to request an excusal from jury duty because I am currently undergoing medical treatment for a serious illness.
Explain How Your Situation Prevents You from Serving
In the second paragraph, explain how your situation prevents you from serving on a jury. Be clear and concise, and avoid using vague or general language. For example, you could write:
My medical condition requires me to attend regular doctor’s appointments and undergo chemotherapy treatments. These appointments and treatments are scheduled during the time that I would be required to serve on the jury.
Provide Supporting Documentation
In the third paragraph, provide any supporting documentation that you have gathered. This could include a doctor’s note, a letter from your employer, or a copy of your travel itinerary. Be sure to attach the documentation to your letter.
Request a Specific Excusal
In the fourth paragraph, request a specific excusal from jury duty. Be clear about the dates that you are requesting to be excused. For example, you could write:
I am requesting an excusal from jury duty for the entire duration of my medical treatment, which is expected to last for six months.
Thank the Court
In the fifth paragraph, thank the court for its time and consideration. You could write:
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate your understanding of my situation.
Sign and Date Your Letter
Sign and date your letter before mailing it to the court. Be sure to include your full name, address, and contact information.
FAQs about Letter To Court To Be Excused From Jury Duty
1. What are the most common reasons for being excused from jury duty?
The most common reasons for being excused from jury duty include:
- Medical reasons
- Financial hardship
- Caregiving responsibilities
- Religious beliefs
- Prior jury service
2. How do I request to be excused from jury duty?
To request to be excused from jury duty, you must write a letter to the court. In your letter, you should state your reason for requesting to be excused and provide any supporting documentation.
3. What should I include in my letter to the court?
Your letter to the court should include the following information:
- Your name and contact information
- The date you received your jury summons
- The reason you are requesting to be excused
- Any supporting documentation
4. How long does it take to get a response from the court?
The court will typically respond to your request within 1-2 weeks.
5. What happens if my request to be excused is denied?
If your request to be excused is denied, you will be required to serve on the jury.