Use this guide as soon as you receive a jury summons in England or Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own systems. Have the summons letter and your work or care commitments to hand.
Step by step
Reply to the summons within 7 days
You must respond within 7 days of receiving the summons, online on GOV.UK or by returning the form. You can be fined if you do not reply or do not turn up. Keep a note of your juror number from the letter.
Ask to change the date if needed
If the dates clash with something important, such as a booked holiday, exams or medical treatment, you can ask to defer, usually to a date within the following 12 months. You can also ask to be excused in limited circumstances, with evidence. Wait for the court's decision before changing your plans.
Tell your employer
Show your employer the summons as soon as possible. Employers must allow you time off for jury service, but they do not have to pay you during it. Ask whether they will pay you, as this affects what you can claim.
Plan for expenses
You can claim for travel, food and loss of earnings up to set daily limits, so check the current amounts on GOV.UK. If your employer does not pay you, ask them to fill in a loss of earnings form. Self-employed people and those who arrange childcare or care can claim too, with evidence.
Know what to bring and expect
Take your summons or confirmation letter on the first day, and something to read, as there can be a lot of waiting. Jury service usually lasts around two weeks, though some trials last longer. Court staff will explain the process when you arrive.
Follow the rules on discussing the case
You must not discuss the case with anyone outside the jury, including on social media, or research it online. Doing so can lead to serious penalties and could stop the trial. Talk to court staff if anyone approaches you about the case.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Replied to the summons within 7 days
- Deferral or excusal requested if needed
- Employer informed
- Pay arrangements checked with employer
- Loss of earnings form arranged if needed
- Receipts kept for expenses
- Summons letter ready for first day
- Understood rules on discussing the case
Practical tips
- Save the court's jury contact details in your phone in case you are delayed or unwell.
- Pack snacks, a water bottle and a book, as there may be long periods of waiting.
- If you have a disability or need adjustments, tell the court in your reply so they can make arrangements.
Common problems
I have a holiday booked during my jury dates.
Ask to defer when you reply, giving the dates and evidence such as a booking confirmation. You will usually be offered a new date within 12 months.
I am self-employed and cannot afford to lose work.
You can claim loss of earnings with evidence, up to the daily limits shown on GOV.UK. If jury service would cause serious hardship, explain this when asking to defer or be excused.
The trial I am on is upsetting me.
Tell court staff, who can explain what support is available. Jurors can also access confidential support services after the trial, and you can speak to your GP or call NHS 111 if you feel unwell.
This guide gives general information, not personal legal, financial or medical advice. Rules and prices change, so check the current position with the official service before acting.
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