June 2, 2025 | Jury Duty
Many St. Petersburg, Florida, residents receive jury duty summons and wonder if getting out of jury duty in Florida is possible. The short answer is yes, but only under specific circumstances outlined by state law.
Florida law provides several legitimate ways to be excused from jury duty. However, simply not wanting to serve is not a valid reason for excusal. Jury service remains an important civic duty in our legal system.
In this article, our personal injury attorneys will explain the valid legal reasons for exemption, how to request an excusal or deferral, what documentation may be required, and what happens if you fail to respond to your jury summons.
Understanding Florida Jury Duty Requirements
Florida requires all qualified citizens to serve on juries when called. The state uses voter registration lists and driver’s license records to identify potential jurors. Jurors hear cases ranging from car accidents and medical malpractice to criminal matters.
To qualify for jury duty in Florida, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a resident of the county where you are summoned
- Be able to understand English well enough to follow court proceedings
- Not have a felony conviction, unless your civil rights have been restored
Citizens aged 70 or older may request an excusal from jury duty, but are not automatically disqualified.
The Florida Statutes outline the complete requirements and procedures for jury service. Failure to respond to a jury summons without a valid excuse can result in contempt of court charges.
Valid Excuses for Jury Duty in Florida
Florida law provides several reasons why a person may be ineligible or excused from jury service.
You may be disqualified from serving on a jury if:
- You are under 18 years old
- You are not a U.S. citizen
- You are not a legal resident of the county where you are summoned
- You have a felony conviction, and your civil rights have not been restored
- You are unable to understand or communicate in English
- You have a documented physical or mental incapacity, supported by a physician’s note
- You are currently under a legal guardianship due to mental incapacity
If any of these apply to you, you should notify the clerk of court as soon as possible. In most cases, documentation may be required.
Discretionary Excuses Judges May Grant
Beyond automatic disqualifications, Florida judges have discretion to excuse jurors in certain circumstances. These situations typically involve significant hardships, making jury service difficult or impossible.
Common discretionary excuses that judges may consider include:
- Being the sole caregiver for someone who cannot care for themselves
- Having a medical condition that makes jury service difficult or risky (with documentation)
- Facing extreme financial hardship if required to miss work
- Being a full-time student during the academic year
- Having served on a jury within the past 12 months
- Holding a position in an essential profession where absence would disrupt public safety or critical services (e.g., active-duty emergency personnel)
Judges evaluate each request individually and may ask for documentation to support your excuse request. The key is demonstrating that serving would create an undue hardship rather than a simple inconvenience.
How to Request an Excuse From Jury Duty
If you believe you qualify for an excuse from jury duty, you must follow proper procedures to request it. Most counties in Florida allow you to request an excuse online, by phone, or by mail before your scheduled service date.
When requesting an excuse, be prepared to provide specific information about your situation. You may need to submit documentation such as medical records, employment letters, or proof of caregiving responsibilities. Be honest and specific about why you cannot serve.
The court will review your request and notify you of its decision. If your excuse is denied, you must still appear for jury duty on your scheduled date. Failing to appear after a denial can result in legal consequences.
Postponing Jury Duty Instead of Excusal
If you cannot serve on your assigned date but don’t qualify for a permanent excuse, you may be able to postpone your service. Florida courts often allow one postponement to a more convenient date within the same year.
Courts commonly grant postponements for reasons such as:
- Pre-planned vacations
- Medical appointments or procedures
- Temporary work conflicts
- Family obligations or caregiving responsibilities
Many counties allow online postponement requests, making the process quick and convenient.
Consequences of Avoiding Jury Duty Illegally
Attempting to avoid jury duty through false statements or ignoring a summons can result in serious legal consequences. Florida courts take jury service seriously and actively pursue those who fail to comply with summons.
Penalties for avoiding jury duty may include contempt of court charges, fines, and even jail time in extreme cases. The specific consequences depend on the circumstances and the judge’s discretion. Additionally, providing false information to avoid service can result in perjury charges.
Rather than risking legal trouble, it’s better to contact the court if you have legitimate concerns about serving. Court officials can often work with you to address your situation appropriately.
Speak to a Florida Attorney About Your Jury Duty Concerns
If you’ve received a jury duty summons in Florida and believe you may qualify for an exemption or deferral, it’s wise to seek legal guidance. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your eligibility for excusal, and ensure you follow the correct legal procedures.
Need Help With a Personal Injury Case? Contact Our St. Petersburg Personal Injury Law Firm in Florida
At Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group, we represent individuals who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.
We have three convenient locations in Florida, including Vero Beach, St. Petersburg, and Port St. Lucie.
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Vero Beach
2651 20th St
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 758-5735
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – St. Petersburg
200 Central Ave Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(772) 404-3858
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Port St. Lucie
10805 SW Tradition Square Unit 024A
Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
(772) 617-8814
