So I received another one of these gorgeous cards in the mail a few weeks ago, and for the first time ever, I was chosen to go in on the morning specified on my summons. It simply happened to be Saint Patrick’s Day. So much for drinking green beer all day.
Yes, I searched for ways out of it. Reschedule, conveniently forget about it, etc., but then I recalled the potential penalties and warrants. I also pondered what would happen if I opted not to appear.
So I demonstrated, went through the procedure, etc. However, one item was spoken while I was there in that room, nervously waiting, and it threw me off guard.
They were about to give us a 20-minute break while they worked on the seating schedule for the courtroom questioning of possible jury members, when the clerk stated, “Now, please return within 20 minutes.” I don’t want to send a deputy out to find you,” which everyone chuckled at.
With a serious expression, he returned his gaze to everyone and stated, “No, really, remember we have your name and all of your information.” If you do not show up, a deputy will be waiting for you at home.” It should be highlighted that there is no way out of jury service, so do not try to avoid or ignore it. It is not worth it.
We’ve almost all gotten one of these little postcards in the mail. No, not one of those gorgeous beach view photos from someone on vacation; I’m talking about one from Potter or Randall County.
It’s white, has a lot of text and numbers on it, and it’ll probably miss work or other things for at least a day, if not longer. Yeah, I am talking about a jury summons.
I’ve received numerous of these during the course of my life. Fortunately, I’ve never been picked or even had to show up to find out if I was. Now that I’ve said that, I’m sure the next one I get will be a two-week trial I have to serve on.
Here’s the deal with jury summons cards. They are not sent certified mail or anything like. It merely arrives with your usual mail. People have told me that because of this, they cannot hold you responsible if you just do not show up.
I get what they’re saying; it’s simple to pretend it didn’t arrive and then completely dismiss it. So, if you don’t react, how will they know? Don’t get too caught up in what others say about it.
There are penalties if you choose not to appear for jury service. Most of the time, you’ll call the number or go online to discover that you don’t even need to show up, but when you do, you’ll choose to ignore it.
Many will claim that there are no penalties for failing to appear and that the courts will not take any action. Sure, it is true to some degree, but there are fines that may be imposed if you do not appear.
According to txcourts.gov, failure to answer the summons may result in a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000. So, it goes on your record and deducts money from your bank account.
So, when that card arrives, don’t disregard it; instead, follow its instructions. Chances are you’ll be alright and won’t need to go in.