Attending Jury Service

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Attending Jury Service

What is jury service?

Jury service is one of the ways individuals participate in the justice system. If you are called to serve, you will sit in court and help decide the outcome of a trial. It is a legal obligation.

In England and Wales, you can be summoned if you are between 18 and 75 years old and registered to vote. In Scotland, the upper age limit is 71. Names are selected at random from the electoral register. When a summons arrives, you must attend unless you have been granted permission to defer or are excused.

In England and Wales, a jury has 12 members. Scottish criminal trials use 15 jurors. Coroner's inquests that require a jury will have between 7 and 11 members, depending on the type of case.

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Types of cases heard by juries

Most jury trials take place in Crown Courts and involve serious criminal charges. These include:

  • Murder and manslaughter
  • Serious assault
  • Rape and sexual offences
  • Robbery and burglary
  • Fraud
  • Drug trafficking

As a juror, you will evaluate evidence alongside your fellow jurors to reach a verdict of guilty or not guilty. The judge will provide legal instructions, but the decision of verdict remains with the jury.

Coroner's juries serve a different purpose. Rather than deciding guilt, you will help establish the facts about a death: who the person was, when and where they died, and the cause of death. These inquests may be held when someone dies in custody, at work, or in circumstances that need public examination.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Receiving your summons

Your jury summons will arrive by post. You will need to return part of it to the Jury Central Summoning Bureau (in England and Wales) within seven days. Keep the remaining pages with you, as you will need them when you attend court.

The summons will tell you which court to go to and when to arrive. Most jury service lasts around two weeks, though some trials run longer. If you are selected for a lengthy case, you will usually be told at the start.

If you cannot attend on the dates given, you can ask to defer your service to a more suitable time. Deferral is not guaranteed, and typically only one deferral is permitted. You will need a genuine reason, such as a pre-booked holiday, medical treatment, or exams. Requests should be made promptly.

Some people can be excused from jury service altogether. This may apply if you have a serious illness or disability that would make serving very difficult. Members of the armed forces on active duty can also apply, though their commanding officer must support the application. The decision is made on a case by case basis. Failing to attend without a valid excuse can result in a fine.

What to expect when you attend

On your first day, you will go through security and be shown to a waiting area with other potential jurors. Court staff will explain what happens next. You may be selected for a trial that day, or you may wait to be called.

Before being assigned to a case, you must inform the court of any conflicts of interest or prior knowledge that could affect your impartiality. Once assigned, you must not discuss the case with anyone outside the jury room. This includes family, friends, and anyone online. You must also avoid media coverage of the trial and not conduct your own research. Breaking these rules is a criminal offence.

Reasonable adjustments are available for jurors with disabilities. Your employer must give you time off for jury service. You can claim for loss of earnings up to a capped amount, as well as travel costs and meals. Claim forms are available at court, and current rates are listed on GOV.UK.

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Ask Courtroom Advice a Question
CourtroomAdvice Editor 10/06/2026 at 12:35 am
@Mum Yes, a small handheld fan is usually fine to take in with you, the courts can get really stuffy, especially in summer. Just be aware that anything battery powered will likely be checked at security, so a simple folding paper or fabric fan is the easiest option. If it's an electric one, keep it switched off in the courtroom itself so it doesn't disturb proceedings. The jury bailiff will tell you off quick enough if it's a problem, but most are pretty understanding when it's warm. Bring a bottle of water too if you can.
Mum 10/06/2026 at 12:35 am
Can I take a small hand fan into the court room if it hot
Ginny brooks 02/05/2023 at 11:43 am
I did jury service in February and was not informed from work that I had to fill an expenses claim form until after I completed my jury service and now work have deducted the money from my wages and I'm now skint with no money to last me until next payday I sent the forms in over 2 weeks ago to Nottingham crown court and heard nothing
Pf91 20/01/2023 at 5:53 pm
Hello i have to attend jurry service on Monday and my letter tells me to br thier for 9am but I recived a email telling me to be thier for 2pm I did not get this email until 10 minutes after the court close for the weekend I just don't know what to do as I am a good hour and a half away at that time off the morning so I can't even ring them to check in the morning dose anyone have any advice
CB 18/10/2022 at 8:53 pm
Do I need to attend work, if I am still on jury service but I don't need to attend court?
bet 25/06/2022 at 6:58 pm
I was going to drive which would take 20mins but it appears there are no car parks for more than a max of 2 hours anywhere near. Not sure if Morrisons at Thamesmead has a limit on how long you can stay but it is free. Does anyone know if there is a bus from there to close to the court? I can't walk too far before my back really hurts. I don't want to be in a bad mood because of pain when I get there wouldn't be fair on the accused would it?
Canniart 05/05/2021 at 8:12 am
I've been selected for Jury service, the date has been reached, but I have not been selected for two days, in a row, so do I just sit at home and keep waiting or can I go out and do things, or go back to work? as you're told each day if you're needed the next day....
DPA 13/04/2021 at 7:06 am
I have been cited for jury duty on 10/5/2021.l cannot remember the dates of the last time I was cited.
Although l was not chosen on that occasion.is there a timescale before you can be cited again?
.
Suhair Alwaqqadi 07/09/2020 at 5:26 pm
Hi,

I have received a letter to attend a jury service in the end of September. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the letter.

Could you please send me an email with the starting date of my jury service as I need to inform my manager.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Kind regards

Suhair Alwaqqadi
Momma bear 17/08/2020 at 6:11 pm
Hi I've just completed my jury service, sent in my loss of earnings form, how long before payment arrives.?
Dc2 27/10/2019 at 10:15 pm
I've been called for jury service, needless to say I'm nervous and a little anxious. It's going to take me just over an hour to get there and depending on how long I'm there I'm not sure if I can return to work if I'm not needed as I work shift patterns. Also does anyone know if you get paid for what you actually would work or less? I'm scared of losing to much money and not being able to pay the Bill's
Ivor the Engine 16/08/2019 at 4:07 pm
I had to attend the Court for Jury service this week. WEE spent all day Monday waiting until about 3.30 when we went in Court and were given details of the case. There were 17 of us and, of course, only 12 required. I was not chosen. I was given a day off on Tuesday but had to attend on Wednesday. Again I was not needed and was dismissed.
The one thing that kept me sane during the waiting was the lady who was looking after us, Donna. She tried her best to keep us informed and keep us relaxed. She did a very good job and shouls be proud of herself
Han 14/06/2019 at 6:46 pm
Hi, I have been called up for jury service and start in a couple of weeks. I work weekends and my employer doesn't pay so have filled out the certificate of loss of earnings for the three days I work during the week. I have been told so many answers by lots of different people and I'm unsure whether I still have to work the weekend because of course the court will not pay the weekend because they are closed. This means though that if I do work I will be working 7 days straight for a couple of weeks if not longer if I'm called up. I'm so confused. Does anyone know if I actually have to work the weekend?
Josh Bradley 31/05/2019 at 5:05 pm
Hi, I was recently picked for jury service and the firm's were in my bag at work. During the day (2days ago from now) my bag was stolen from my work place including some personal belongings and the paper work for the jury service. What do I do? I've tried calling 08453 555 567(the number above for queries) and it doesn't even ring.
Knt 01/05/2019 at 7:48 pm
Hi. I was called for jury service, starting Monday, for two weeks. Work not paying me, and has had to get cover in to replace me. I already asked if I wasn't needed at court, could I work, and they said no, as not fair on the person covering to lose out.
So started on Monday, wasn't selected, and sent home on call. Giving a phone number to ring after 4pm to see if I was needed next day. I wasn't, but still on call and told to phone Tuesday to see if I was needed wed, still not needed. Phoned again wed and this time it said my jury service was completed. Do I have actually spent less than four hours in court, the rest of time on call. I can't go back to work till end of next week... This is made clear on the loss of expenses form.
Will I be able to claim full days for being on call and for the rest of the time that I've lost from work.
All this and I didn't even get to see a trial.
Future Juror 15/04/2019 at 2:14 pm
What to expect on day 1 of jury service?
Nakhtar 02/04/2019 at 10:13 pm
Hi,
What time does jury service start?
I'm due to be on it next week
Anyone help?

Thank you
Muscles 08/10/2018 at 6:29 pm
I am due to do Jury Service. I have been regularly doing two hours overtime Monday - Thursday 19:15 - 21:15 for over four years. Will I still be able to do these hours whilst on Service?
Laura14 28/01/2018 at 10:16 pm
I sent back my conformation of attending jury duty but haven't received a conformation letter? I'm due to go in 3 weeks so thought I would of had a letter by now?
Dg 28/12/2017 at 10:46 am
Will I definitely be away from work for the whole time or once iv done a case will they let me go back to work? Tia
Taz 21/09/2017 at 10:41 pm
I am working abroad at the moment. Do I still have to attend jury service..
Ed 17/09/2017 at 5:07 pm
Just done my jury service and for the first week got sent home on the Wednesday told come back Monday and only go paid for 3 days. Now find I'm out of pocket as my work gave me the time off and my work was allocated to others so I had no work feel cheated I won't do Jury service again should they of paid as they sent me home
Guy 24/08/2017 at 12:52 am
On my 3rd day of jury duty, we have been told not to attend tommorow, but to call again after 4.30pm. Should I go to my regular job on this day off, or should I stay off work?
Jac 15/08/2017 at 2:16 pm
I am due to start Jury Service on 29th August but I now need to go to the funeral of close relative on 31st August some distance from my home.
Please advise.
JSH 09/08/2017 at 5:40 pm
what are the daily hours of Jury service please?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 04/08/2017 at 12:07 pm
Please see gov.uk link here which should tell you all you need to know.
Jordan88 03/08/2017 at 10:34 pm
Hi, I got my jury summons today, the place I work has limited staff as it is and it could be really damaging to business if I am not there, what do I do?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 28/07/2017 at 11:41 am
As specified in the article, you would have to call the Jury Central Summoning Bureau if you have a query.
Dinky24 26/07/2017 at 10:37 pm
I've been called up for jury duty. I've lost my summons letter and have no clue how to get my juror reference number. Can anyone give me advice on what to do
Molly moo 11/07/2017 at 4:04 pm
I have not received my remittance advice to pass to my employee , is this something i can get please . i did jury service on 13th Feb at leicester crown court .
Tom 04/07/2017 at 11:28 am
I have lost my jury summons letter but I have two jury duty confirmation letters, both with my juror number on. Are these valid as proof of jury service?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 26/05/2017 at 12:46 pm
You would have to contact the Jury Summoning Service directly to explain your position. You will not have to pay a fine if they are informed in the proper manner and as to the letter.
Ange 25/05/2017 at 11:44 pm
Im not in the UK as I am away traveling for 6 months - my housemates have emailed me to say Ive received a jury summons (im not sure when it arrived) what can I do? I have no plans to return to UK and dont have a flight booked and cant afford to change my entire trip for this.. am I going to have to pay a huge fine or get into lots of trouble? please help. thank you
marshmellow 12/05/2017 at 6:03 pm
does jury service include the week end, or just Monday to Friday
Gee 22/02/2017 at 5:57 pm
They say keep your train tickets for proof but what if there is no one working the barriers and my ticket gets eaten? Can I ask for a receipt when purchased?? And if I'm only in court for 4 hours do they only pay me for that or do I get my full days pay??
Natz 19/02/2017 at 7:03 pm
Hi I have jury duty tomorrow and I have been phoneing the attendance line since after 5 but keeps coming up with an engaged tone it's been 2 hours now. Does anyone know what's going on?
mags 18/02/2017 at 10:29 pm
Hi I was selected for jury duty on the 15th of February the letter said to phone after 5 the day before I was due to got for jury duty to see if I was selected but my number did not come out its now 18th and I have phoned each night and my number has not came out yet ,how long do I have to keep phoneing to find out please advise
Sue 09/02/2017 at 9:11 pm
Hi my mother in law has been asked to attend jury service but only has birth certificate as ID, she has no credit card or passport and her husband pays all utility bills. What can she do as she's been told to take ID with her.
elle1 09/02/2017 at 2:07 pm
Hope someone can clear this up for me as it's unclear in my jurors pack.

My employer is arranging cover for the full 10 days that I may have to attend court for jury duty, so I am unable to return to work for those 10 days.

The company does not pay me for my time in court.

Will the court have to pay loss of earnings for 10 full days @ £64.95 per day even if i'm not in court for a full day or finished earlier than expected?
Tinx 06/02/2017 at 3:04 pm
You mention about loss of earnings but this isn't true!!! The maximum they will pay you is £32.47 day! When you live in London and your the only money maker in the house hold £32 would put me further in debt than I already am and would get me in court for missed payments on my rent which could lead to homelessness with my son! Someone needs to look at a better system for jury service as lots of people will end up in financial trouble if not worse due to this law!!!
David 04/02/2017 at 4:34 pm
Hi, I did jury service on the week commencing the 27th of November and subsequently sent off my expenses sheet but as of now I have yet to be paid, do you know how much longer I will have to wait please?
Kind regards
David
Leigh 31/01/2017 at 5:43 pm
Hi I'm doing jury service next week , I am self employed hairdresser and had to cancel all appointments for ten days ! I don't know how I'm suppose to put down my loss of earnings as my business has regular clients as well as I take bookings on the day or for the following weeks. Am I going to lose out on my normal takings ? Or what do I take in on the first day ? Kind regards
Kirsty91 29/01/2017 at 5:35 pm
I have been called for jury service tomorrow, 30th January. My employer had me apply to be excused as I work in the health care sector. I received a letter back from the count saying they cannot make a decision whether I will be excused or not but that they will contact me a week before the jury sitting. I haven't heard back and don't know my citation number as i sent my citation letter along with my application form for excusal to the court. Now I don't know wether I have to attend or not.
Netty 25/01/2017 at 6:24 pm
Hi I have been on jury service which was due to be 4 days so I have got 4 days off work but it ended early 3 days do I get paid for 3 days or 4?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 25/01/2017 at 10:42 am
Your boyfriend would have to write to the Jury Central Summoning Bureau explaining why he wants to defer. He would have to include evidence showing why he won’t be available
Vr 24/01/2017 at 12:08 pm
Hi, my boyfriend has been called for jury service and responded to say he can but in the meantime his grandad has died and the funeral is after the date he needs to start jury service. I don't think he will be in the right frame of mind to attend either as he was very close to him. What should he do? Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks
Badger 22/01/2017 at 10:37 am
Hi there. I'm currently on Jury service. The total time I am out of the house is approx 9 hours per day. I work as a live in housekeeper. My boss allowed me to do the Jury service after a referral last year. She now expects me, however, to work when I get back in from Jury service, from 6-9.30pm. Is this legal? I have expressed to my boss that it is an exhausting day, due to the intensity of the case. Please advise.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 11/01/2017 at 11:07 am
Please see gov.uk link here which tells you how you can defer.
Angelwings 10/01/2017 at 12:22 pm
I've had a jury service notice but I don't want to do it. I'm a single mum on job seekers, and I have a load of interviews coming up. This could really screw my chances. If I have to mention possible jury service at interviews I wont get offered the jobs and going off a brand new job for service doesn't look good either. What do I do?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 14/12/2016 at 10:17 am
If your employer has decided not to pay you during jury service, as well as claiming expenses such as travel and food costs, you can ask your employer to complete a Certificate for Loss of Earnings form, which will compensate you in case of any lost earnings, please see gov.uk which
Pete 13/12/2016 at 9:38 am
I've been called for jury duty at start of Feb but as the only income in my house I'm worried that should I get a long running stint that passes the end of month I won't be able to pay rent is there any way to be paid during jury service in these situations
CourtroomAdvice Editor 12/12/2016 at 1:49 pm
As specified in the article, you should speak to the jury manager by contacting the court where your case is being heard.
Turner2016 12/12/2016 at 1:27 pm
I have jury service from 19th December. I read somewhere that the courts close for the christmas period on the 21st December. Does this mean I may be called back again after christmas?
Mo 11/12/2016 at 8:52 pm
I've to attend jury duty tomorrow, I've lost my citation, so don't have the phone number to call and see if I've to attend. I've tried looking online but with no luck.
cicero 29/10/2016 at 11:25 am
I have been in court on jury service for the last five days. I have diverted my gaze away from the defendant and followed Police statements. It was only yesterday when the defendant appeared on stand I realised the date of birth shown on the Police records is completely wrong ie. shows he was born in 1972 and not as I now know should be 1992. I feel this has clouded my initial judgement thinking he was 44 and not 24, what should I do?
Ella 23/10/2016 at 9:15 am
Hi there, I have been called for dury duty starting tomorrow but only realised today that I have lost my papers for it. Is this is problem or will I still be able to attend duty service?
Lottie 21/10/2016 at 12:51 pm
If you are called for 2 week jury service, and the trial ends after 4 days - do you have to go back on the 5th day and the following week or are you allowed a day off on the 5th day - then be called back for the 2nd week?

Thank you
gm80 04/10/2016 at 1:17 pm
Hi,
I have been selected for Jury Service and have been told that I will not be paid by my employee. I am worried that the amount that I could be likely to claim is considerably less than my wage and not sufficient to cover my mortgage payment. Where do I stand? I'm guessing that I cannot ask for more money other than the set amount on the gov website? It's not a good reason to defer as I would still have the same problem whenever it may be re-arranged for!
Regards,
Geoff
Sanchezz4387 30/09/2016 at 3:27 pm
I passed my job interview in August. Once my documentation arrived i was advised to phone up for a start date. I started jury service 19th September 2016. Im on a trial scheduled to end 28th October. My paperwork arrived for my new job 26th September. I phoned up as instructed to be given a date, i mentioned my jury service end date and they wouldnt allow me to start until it ends die to their "training procedures" i have tried to take a loss of earnings form to them today as im startikg to fall behind with my bills and the comoany are refusing to fill in the documents and stamp my application due to "not being employed by the company". I argued the point that had i NOT been on jury service and the company having such rigid training in which im not allowed time away from then i would currently be working with them.and earning. Im in a very bad situation now i literally have zero income i have been well and truly shafted and im pretty much on the verge of having a breakdown
CourtroomAdvice Editor 30/09/2016 at 11:25 am
You would need a good excuse in order to apply to defer on the grounds that jury service will conflict with work commitments. Your case will be considered on its own merits.
Mo 29/09/2016 at 12:45 pm
I have had Jury duty deferred till the 9th of Jan 2017, but as I am self employed and a public figure I am still finding it difficult to attend, because of work commitments, and I think it could be detrimental to whatever case I attend because I am a known person in the entertainment business
CourtroomAdvice Editor 29/09/2016 at 10:56 am
Your employer doesn’t have to pay you during your Jury service, but as specified in the article you can claim for loss of earnings from the court. Please see gov.uk which
Tabi 28/09/2016 at 7:36 pm
Simple question. If I sit on one case as a jury member and that case lasts a week before it finishes and is closed, do I have to go and sit on another case or am I only made to sit on the one case from start to finish?
Michelle 28/09/2016 at 7:41 am
Please help! I do cleaning from 03.30am and my employer had told me I still have to work up until 9am (which is my time to start service) if I choose to have the time off I can't get paid for it or claim any back because it's out if the house that jury service takes place. Is this correct? I will lose a lot of money, & also be more tired as I do get up at 2.30am to start work at 3.30am. Any advice is appreciated x
Cazz 17/09/2016 at 2:51 am
Iv been picked for dury duty on 21st september 2016,iv also received a citation to appear at court as a wittness on 23rd september do i still need to appear for dury duty ?
BeckyA 09/09/2016 at 7:01 pm
I have to claim the money back through the gov as my work do not pay but if I attend court do I get paid for a full day or do I only get the money back for the hours I attend?
Bibi 02/09/2016 at 2:58 pm
Please I will like to know if someone without a job can claim the the benefits and the pay attached to Attending the jury.
Jaxs 21/08/2016 at 12:03 am
Starting new job on Monday but got jury service too.do I claim expenses even though employer hasn't put me on a shift due to jury service or can I work an evening shift and not claim daytime lack of hours
Jays 20/08/2016 at 5:49 pm
I am starting a new job on Monday and jury service too.as I'm not able to work during the day can I claim expenses even if I haven't been given a shift ?or am I allowed to work evening shifts and not claim?
Luke 15/08/2016 at 3:36 pm
I have been Summoned for Jury Service on 12th September. I have a history of Stress Anxiety and Depression which had led to me having one Suicide attempt, and another attempt on my own life that was intervened on. I used to receive help from my Doctor, and attended Counselling, but no longer get this as my life has been Stress free for a number of years now. At first i was keen to do my duty, but as time gets closer I am already beginning to feel very anxious and am getting warning signs of stress. Since I have no idea of what type of case I may be chosen for, will this be taken into account when Jurors are being chosen, or is this a condition that would exclude me from Jury Service?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 15/08/2016 at 2:59 pm
You would have to ask the jury officer, as we do not have this information.
Rawz 15/08/2016 at 10:21 am
I've started jury service today but lost my jury summons and paper work to get paid what can I do
Bex 09/08/2016 at 4:29 pm
I started my first day of jury service yesterday. Waited around for 4 hours then was told I wasn't needed and I wouldn't be needed today. I had to phone us today to check to see if I'm needed tomorrow, which I am. And I'm certain they said 1.30pm.
this seems rather late in the day to me, is this right? Can I be called in that late, or did I mishear what they said. I don't want to get there late. They said we only have an hour slot to phone up and find out and that hour is up.
Hannah 30/07/2016 at 3:44 pm
Hi there.

I have jury service on the 9th of August, as well as two University exams in August. At the time of having to confirm whether or not I could participate in the jury service and sending off my confirmation the dates of the exams had not been released so I felt like I didn't really have choice but to confirm and hope they wouldn't clash.
I now know my first of the two exams is on the 18th of August - is this likely to be a problem, is it common for cases to last more than a week?
Any advice would be appreciated!
Channi 30/07/2016 at 9:13 am
I've been called up to do jury service on 1st August and just realised I havnt sent the reply to the jury summons back shall I do it today and send it first class or fill it in and take with me? ... I'm unsure and got to b there at 9am Monday
Jack 08/07/2016 at 12:02 pm
Hi, i have been selected for jury service, if my employer will pay my normal wage will I still get paid the half or full day for attending jury service aswell?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 04/07/2016 at 3:07 pm
Many thanks for your useful comments here.
MS 04/07/2016 at 5:57 am
Having been a former Jury Bailiff I can tell you that all of the queries I have read above should be referred to the Courts in question. The court does not want to make any jurors life difficult whilst they are attending and will do their utmost to help whereever they can.
Rod 13/06/2016 at 12:43 pm
I'm a full time dad my little girl is 2 years old. My girlfriend works full time and works long hours. If the court lasts longer than two weeks this will be an issue for us as we don't know what we will do for childcare. What will the court expect me to do if I have to serve longer than two weeks? I can't just abandon my child. I am very nervous about this.
lolly4 10/06/2016 at 8:23 pm
I will be doing a jury service 27th June. I asked to be deferred for 2 weeks between august and september. We will see i got it or not.i have a holiday to go home visiting my family in my country. My question is how many time i can get a new case or how is going.cause may i want to have in this 12 months other holiday or i cannot go anywhere in this 12 months? Or how many weeks before thay will let me know the new case date? Sorry for that but I dont know too many things about that service. Thank you
Tiggi 03/06/2016 at 12:55 pm
I have been warned for jury service from June 27th 2016, I have just received notification of my long awaited operation to my right hand, how do I stand in regards to court attendance?
J80 26/05/2016 at 12:55 pm
I have been selected for jury service.
I work 2 days a week. The week of my jury service I am rota'd to work the weekend.
Would I still need to work this?
As it would obviously mean working 7 days/possibly 14 in a row, to which I have to find childcare.
wellington 18/05/2016 at 11:30 am
I have been called for jury service in June I have two part time jobs can I claim for both of them? the form & paper work is not very helpful.
Vicky 16/05/2016 at 7:37 am
I have jury service but can't find pages 1 and 2 of te form is this a problem
Kat 14/05/2016 at 3:06 pm
I have been selected for jury on the 11th and my university graduation is on the 14th, is this a strong enough reason to be excused as I cannot attended on the 14th
CourtroomAdvice Editor 09/05/2016 at 12:45 pm
I'm afraid we cannot advise on this, you would have to contact the Jury Central Summoning Bureau directly.
beau 08/05/2016 at 9:22 pm
Hi, I have been given jury service and already had to postpone it as I am at university and it was during my term time. They have given me a new date but I have a holiday booked 2 weeks after. Can I ask to only do 2 weeks because of the holiday? Will they ask to see details of the date I booked the holiday?
rayme 05/05/2016 at 9:58 pm
I have been picked for jury duty but my day of work is on a week day but my work said they wont pay me for this or owe me a day is this right?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 21/04/2016 at 2:51 pm
That's a tricky question to answer if you are not earning then it makes it difficult to claim for loss of earnings. I think you would have to ring the Jury Central Summoning Bureau directly for this advice.
Dave 21/04/2016 at 7:55 am
I will be doing jury service next week. I am out of work but cannot bring myself to claim benefits. Can I claim any daily allowance other than expenses?
Edith 19/04/2016 at 5:11 pm
Hi, I've been selected for Jury Service next month. I'm working part time, only evenings( from 6.30 pm), so do I have to take time off from work, or can I normaly do my shifts?
Aly 17/04/2016 at 8:16 am
I've got jury service tomorrow and only just realised that I sent back part 1 and 2 has well has 3 and 4 what do I do now
Advice 04/04/2016 at 11:14 pm
I'm on my second week of jury service and I've been given another case I really don't feel comfortable sitting on - way to close to home I couldn't really mention it by the time they told us what sort of case it was we were then being sworn in!! I just don't want to do it for many reasons - what can I do???
Char 24/03/2016 at 2:11 pm
My employers have agreed to pay my first 2 weeks of jury service, but what is the situation with loss of earnings if it becomes any longer than that? should i get them to fill in the loss of earning certificate just in case?
shazza1977 22/03/2016 at 9:52 pm
Hi I've just finished my jury service, and I didn't get chosen I went in for three days and was then told to ring each night if needed for the next day I was under the impression that if you got summond you got chosen to do the trials however this seems not so has anyone else had this where they not been picked at all? Also I lve had to book my children in extra for childcare and even though I've not been chosen I stiil have had to pay will I be able to claim this back?
sian 12/03/2016 at 8:14 am
I recently did jury service but I was only called in for the first week. I have been paid for that week but not for the second week as my number was not chisem each time i rang in. My employer filled in the form stating I would not be allowed to return to work until after the 2 weeks even if I am not needed. I have lost 1 weeks wages because of this. Who do I claim that week from I was not allowed to work. Thankyou
debbie 09/03/2016 at 5:14 pm
I'm doing jury service now started on Monday but I'm sat at home waiting for a call to tell me if I need to go in. Last time I did jury service I had to go to the court every day this time I don't seem to is this right as I don't know and can't find the jury service desk number that I was given
lody 02/03/2016 at 11:34 am
I have just been called for Jury Service but am worried about the loss of earnings and I am confused by what can be claimed. Can I claim full lost income or is it just the maximum stated in Allowances form? This no where covers my out goings (£64.95 a day) so a 2 week stint in court could cost me quite a few hundred pounds. Some websites say you can claim full lost income others say only up to the amounts stated in form. My employer will not pay me. Thanks
None 28/02/2016 at 10:34 am
Does the Crown Court take place at the end of July or the first three weeks in August? As a Head Teacher I may need to defer my jury service to the school holidays as taking time off in term time may be difficult.
eskimo 25/02/2016 at 6:19 pm
I am on jury service at the moment and have been told that it could be 5 weeks or more. My question is I work part time and my employer has filled in a loss of earning for as they will not be paying me my full pay. Will i be paid the full date rate by the court or will they just pay me the half day rate because i only work 5 hrs per day?

also my employer has stated that i need to claim the loss of earnings and they will pay me the difference. in essence doing jury service means that i am performing over time and i have been told that i will only get what my employer has filled in on the loss of earning forms which is only for 5 hrs and have been doing 8 hr days so far
Neil 20/02/2016 at 9:02 am
I have a crown court Jury Summons, due to start Monday. I have rang the Jury Line number and have been advised I am not needed Monday but to call Monday evening for further instructions. Do I go back to work or as still on Summons remain at home. ? The reason for my question is my Son was on duty, told not needed but then was called at Lunch time to attend court that day ?
Jay 19/02/2016 at 6:32 pm
If you do Jury Service do you still work at weekends
CourtroomAdvice Editor 19/02/2016 at 11:28 am
I'm afraid we can't help with this. You will usually be paid 7 to 10 working days after submitting your claim form. If your haven't been paid you would need to contact the court directly.
James 18/02/2016 at 2:39 pm
Hi i did jurry sevice for the first 2 weeks of febuary and was payed a loss of earnings on the friday off the first week, but didnt recive anything on the second after id finished any help please! As ive lost a full weeks wage
Klc 18/02/2016 at 11:26 am
I'm due to start Monday but I need to derfer/ cancel due to health. I can't reach the court jurors team on the number provided, I've called 11 times with no answer. What else can I do?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 02/02/2016 at 11:32 am
As specified in the article you would have to contact the Jury Central Summoning Bureau by telephoning: 08453 555 567, for this information.
Kattay 01/02/2016 at 5:55 pm
Hi, I sent my Jury Summons forms back - how long is it until I receive confirmation if I am required? I need to sort out cover with work. The dates were for end of February. Thanks
nantan 29/01/2016 at 4:40 pm
Hi I've had a holiday booked in since before Xmas and have been called for jury service the day I start my hol . I was hoping to go away where do I stand ? Do I get payed for loss of holiday time ?
Ema 24/01/2016 at 7:43 pm
Hi,
I am a full time student, and at the moment on placement. I have been called for Jury Duty. This means I have to have a week of placement in which I have to make up. To make this up I will have to take time from my actual job. How does this work?
Larry 15/01/2016 at 6:33 pm
Hi I have been picked to sit on a jury and have been sworn in I have just realised that the crime was committed in the area I work although I do not know anyone involved can I still serve on the jury and should I let the court know
40lilgemz 12/01/2016 at 11:04 pm
I've been called for jury service for 18th Jan 2016 at Glasgow high court. My employer returned the wages claim form but say they will be paying me less than my normal weekly wage and I'm also going to lose bonus, I am particularly annoyed about this as I did not ask to go on jury service and feel I'm being penalised for doing my civic duty. My wage is low enough without losing money. Can you advise me on this matter please? Many thanks.
a7x 12/01/2016 at 10:33 pm
Hi. Can my employer find out if ive been dismissed from court early or even told not to attend one day? They want me to return to work if that is the case however I feel that is unfair as I only work part time and doing jury service equates to more than my normal hours of employment.
Mel 10/01/2016 at 9:06 pm
Just enquiry, I'm up to do jury service next month. I work evenings 6pm until midnight. (Adding an extra 20mins travel time so wouldn't get home until around 00:20 ish. What is the rest time? Would I be able to ask my employer to finish earlier?
Jord 06/01/2016 at 4:39 pm
Hi I've just been dismissed for today but still have to ring every night at 6pm. I'm due to be back in work Saturday will I have to go into work as the courts closed over the weekend? Also my 1st rest day from work was the 1st day I was in court so I've not had a day off is that legal?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 06/01/2016 at 12:05 pm
I'm afraid she would have to go back to its claims department and if it cannot be resolved within a given time, ask for its complaints procedure.
anon 05/01/2016 at 2:45 pm
My daughter sent all her receipts back to claim jury service money back in early part of December they haven't paid her still said they lost her letter how can she her money back
CourtroomAdvice Editor 30/11/2015 at 10:52 am
You would be advised to contact the court directly for opening and closing times. It really depends upon the case regarding the length of it.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 30/11/2015 at 10:31 am
I am sorry to hear this. As specified in the article, the jury manager of the court where your case is being heard should be able to help.
Cariad 29/11/2015 at 9:58 am
My sister in law has a summons calling her for service on 21 December at Winchester. How does this period work in terms of Christmas week ? Ie when will she be finished and then starting again potentially as I assume the Courts close for a period over the festive season ?
Thanks
Stuart
Mohammed Abdul 29/11/2015 at 8:21 am
Hi I have been to Jury service for a week and never been paid off to my bank. On which number I can reach court so that I can claim my money for food and travel. I attended from November 16 week
lindy 23/11/2015 at 7:35 pm
I'm doing jury service for two weeks can my boss make me work the weekend in between I only work 15 hours and I've already done 6 hours on my first day
CourtroomAdvice Editor 20/11/2015 at 2:03 pm
I'm afraid we can't predict this as it depends on the case and how long it lasts.
Zoe 20/11/2015 at 1:12 am
Hi I've been called up for jury service how likely is it for me to go on the Monday and it been all done and dusted by the Tuesday and can go bk to work on the Wednesday?
Thanks
Ellis 18/11/2015 at 6:30 pm
If your on jury service and currently doing a case do you have to go into work... So in court Monday to Friday... Work Saturday then back into the same case on Monday?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 21/10/2015 at 2:37 pm
If you have a holiday booked and paid for, you may be able to delay your jury service until a more convenient time. For any further advice, you would have to contact the Central Jury Summoning Bureau directly.
Brown 20/10/2015 at 5:48 pm
I work in a school and have been called to do jury service during school holiday. I cannot get this holiday back. Will I be able to claim payment for that week for loss of holiday?
umm haani 05/10/2015 at 7:05 pm
Hi, after having my jury service differed during my pregnancy , it was rescheduled and now has come up in my holidays from work. I need this time to have with my 6 month old baby. I work in a school so only get holidays with the kids . How can I get exempt or is there a way of claiming back my holidays.
pg 02/10/2015 at 4:51 pm
My jury service started on the 28th October still haven't been called in Yet is there a likely chance that o won't be called for the next 5 working days
CourtroomAdvice Editor 11/09/2015 at 10:02 am
You can not apply - you are selected. As specified in the article you have to be chosen at random from the electoral register. I hope this helps.
bas 04/08/2015 at 11:47 pm
I received a Juror Summons from a Coroner today. I have never heard of this before and the address is a Coroners Office not a court. What is the difference with this jury service?
Vickif1987 03/08/2015 at 6:38 pm
I got jury service starting today but they phoned to say that don't need me today or tomorrow will I still get paid for the day
CourtroomAdvice Editor 04/08/2015 at 12:37 pm
@Michelle - as specified in the article, if you have a query about your jury service you can contact the Jury Central Summoning Bureau by telephoning: 08453 555 567, but only until a week before your jury service is due to start. After this time, you should ask the Jury Manager of the court where your case is being heard. If you live in Northern Ireland you can contact the Jury Management Team on: 028 7126 1329. If you live in Scotland you can contact civil jurors court of session on: 0131 240 6772 or for criminal jurors at the high court of justiciary on: 0131 240 6907.
Michelle 01/08/2015 at 8:51 pm
I have been called for jury service on the 1st of sept 2015 and I fly out on the 2nd sept 2015 - 8th sept 2015
I have lost the form completely carrying it around with me at work trying to find time to reply, & I am due to fly out 3 August -17 August
Pls advice as I have no clue where to start, didn't even read it pass the heading.
Tuck 28/07/2015 at 2:37 pm
What is page 1&2 that we are meant to bring with us?
GaryB 23/07/2015 at 8:23 pm
Hi, the number for the Jury Central Summoning Bureau isn't working. I can't remember when I'm meant to be doing the jury duty. Thanks
vonvon 17/07/2015 at 8:50 pm
Doing jury service in a couple of weeks but I'm scared its freaking me out not sleeping well getting really worried about it could I get excused if I get letter off doctor
Olivianewton 17/07/2015 at 7:02 pm
I have a holiday booked in the time schedule that I am on duty service however my jury was already confirmed, this holiday was booked by my mother as a surprise and I only found out before, she had forgot on about my jury service, is there any advice on this concern?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 17/06/2015 at 2:19 pm
@Lilsue - you should ask the jury manager of the court where your case is being heard. Or call the Jury Central Summoning Bureau, if the case is being heard in more than a weeks' time.
Lilsue 14/06/2015 at 6:56 pm
Hiya I've lost part one and two of the jury form what should I do
CourtroomAdvice Editor 17/06/2015 at 10:47 am
@Aloliver - I'm afraid you would have to call the Jury Management Team, we cannot advise on this sort of information.
Aloliver 14/06/2015 at 10:19 am
I've start jury service tomorrow. I put the original jury summons sheet somewhere safe but now I can't find that safe place and can't remember where I thought was a good idea to keep it. I have the second batch of information including 'confirmation of jury service' with my juror number on it. Is this ok to take with me rather than the pink summons?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 27/05/2015 at 9:52 am
@Kraftykate - he has to be available if he is registered for jury service over the two weeks. In the interim, if he is not needed at court he should return to work unless prior agreements have been made.
Kraftykate 24/05/2015 at 9:14 am
My son has been called for jury service , we have phoned the jury line and his number has not been called for day one , does he go back to work or does he have to be available for the further 2 weeks . He has just started a job through an agency and we are not sure how he stands please any advice
CourtroomAdvice Editor 22/05/2015 at 10:36 am
@elstep - As this question is quite specific, I would give the Jury Central Summoning Bureau a call to ask this question via which
elstep 18/05/2015 at 3:27 pm
I work 10 or 12 hour shifts including weekends and then have rest days later in the week.
I have been called up for jury service starting on a Monday. This means I will be finishing work on the Sunday at 5.00pm then going to the court Monday morning. Can I ask my employer for special leave on the Sunday or because there is more then an 11 hour gap will I be expected to work Sunday?
If chosen on the Monday by the court it means i will be attending court on my 4 off days and will then be returning straight back to work without any rest days. Can I ask my employer to give me an allowance for the rest days i will have missed from work? If not i am going to be very tired.
Tracy 16/05/2015 at 8:36 am
Hello I have recently done jury service I only work 4 hours a day 4 days a week if I stay all day at court due to being on a trial do i only get paid for 4hours because that's my normal day if I was at work or would I get paid for full day
CourtroomAdvice Editor 13/05/2015 at 12:20 pm
@Maverick - You can get advice via the JCSB on 0845 803 8003, an advisor will tell you about any aspect of your summons or jury service. I hope this helps.
Maverick 11/05/2015 at 4:04 pm
If not needed on any days during jury service or sent home early,does the court still pay upto 4 hrs or the full 8 hrs?
i have heard of people only being in court for a few hours then being sent home and told come back tomorrow for it to continue
deano 29/04/2015 at 10:18 am
hi ive been summoned for jury service on 8th june 2015, however im a full time carer for my partner and will struggle greatly to find someone to help look after him? and I really don't no what to do from here. regards dean
Ryy 28/04/2015 at 6:44 pm
I have been summoned to jury service however I am in the dark with what clothes you must wear e.g is it mandatory that you wear a suit or is it exceptable for me to wear a button shirt and light blue jeans? Please help as I do not own a suit and my smartest clothes are button shirts and jeans and smart shoes. Many thanks!!!!
Suze Editor 01/04/2015 at 11:47 am
@mjen - have you been asked to become a juror? When presented with the case, I think you would do the job to the best of your ability and make an informed decision which is what all jurors do.
mjen 30/03/2015 at 12:58 pm
Hi,

I was a defendant years ago and was rightfully acquitted. I feel that my experience would bias my ability to serve as a juror as I think that I would be likely to find everyone innocent as I have no faith in the legal system. What should I do?

Thanks,
CourtroomAdvice Editor 09/03/2015 at 12:44 pm
@Mr Question: If you are in college you may apply for deferral, but you must enclose a letter from your college/ university confirming your attendance on the course.
Mr Question 06/03/2015 at 4:52 pm
So what if I'm unable to attend 4 out of the 5 days in the working week? I attend a college and I attend from tuesday to thursday, do I only attend on mondays since I'm still in education, or do I have to attend for the full week?
matt 02/03/2015 at 5:58 am
I have been summoned for jury service but am travelling at the moment. My mother postponed the date for me but made a mistake and said that I could attend in August however I still won't be home. Who can i get in touch with to fix this?

Thanks
Libby Editor 16/02/2015 at 2:30 pm
@ap - I think if you are doing jury service the court may require you to concentrate on the case in hand, besides a knitting needle may be confiscated at the door when you are searched by security, as it could be used as an offensive weapon!
ap 14/02/2015 at 8:59 am
hi maybe a silly question but am i able to bring knitting with me
CourtroomAdvice Editor 12/01/2015 at 12:09 pm
@davide - you would have to contact the court directly for this information and ask what their protocol is.
davide 09/01/2015 at 11:16 pm
Hi. Am i able to use a laptop in the assembly area whilst I'm waiting around? Do courts generally have lockers to securely store laptops and mobile phones?
br Editor 07/01/2015 at 11:51 am
@K - it might be worthwhile you taking it up with the court as you do have a very valid point.
K 07/01/2015 at 10:29 am
I'm currently on jury service. Why is it that the defendants while in court are inside a glass secure area with a guard. But during breaks, they, their supporters and us the jurors all have to use the same building entrance and exits together. Very intimidating. Why can't they be kept back a short while? I've experienced the same issue at another court on a prior jury device too. Fully accept they are "innocent" at this stage. But feel intimidated none the less.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 03/12/2014 at 2:31 pm
@Johnny - no you take an oath of confidentiality and are prevented from discussing the case with anyone, except other jury members in the jury deliberation room. Even when the trial’s over, the case must not be discussed, even with family members. To discuss the trial is contempt of court.
johnny 03/12/2014 at 7:14 am
Someone has come back to work after jury service & he's telling people about it, is this right? I thought you wasnt aloud to do this.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 25/11/2014 at 2:19 pm
@BellaP - Aylesbury Crown Court may be able to help you on 01296 434401.
BellaP 24/11/2014 at 5:17 pm
I have Jury duty this week in Aylesbury and were told to phone a number every evening to find out if I will be on duty the next day but seem to have one digit missing, can anyone help with this?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 10/11/2014 at 3:09 pm
@Eddie - we do not hold such details. You would have to get in touch with the issuing authority direct.
Eddie 10/11/2014 at 9:48 am
I have got jury service next Monday 17/11/2014 but can't find the paper work,can you send a copy,kind regards,
emily1980 28/09/2014 at 6:38 pm
Please could you tell me what is suitable to wear for jury service. I have got black trousers grey top and grey cardigan. Is that ok. Thank you
Judy 13/05/2014 at 11:15 pm
I have forgotten to get employer to sign my loss of earnings form, would the court accept a pay slip as evidence
Anndi 26/04/2014 at 8:11 am
Hi I have jury service w/c May 5th I have not recieved any information through the post to tell me where to go or a citation? (mentioned in other peoples posts) I have recently had post stolen from an external post box so it may have been in there. Is it possible to have it resent to me?
jimbob 11/08/2013 at 7:36 pm
ive got jury service 2moro at leeds crown, i left all the paperwork in my car but it has been broken into and i cant find it now. what time should i arrive on the first day?
SIobhan 11/08/2013 at 4:13 pm
I have jury duty Tom & have lost my citation. How can I find out if I'm needed or not?? I can't find any helpline numbers . I don't know what to do???
Kelly(: 28/05/2013 at 12:36 am
I have been summoned for jury service. I have replied to my summons and am due to attend my first day tomorrow. I have become ill with food poisoning over the weekend and am too ill to attend. If I contact the court as soon as they open tomorrow morning, will it be possible to have my jury service deferred to a later date?
mickey 25/03/2013 at 6:24 pm
I have been called up for Jury service and my employer will not be paying me. On my first day I was told to go home and be 'on call'. I work shifts so on the form my employers have put that I cant work any full or half day that I am not needed. Will I still get paid by the court for the days that I am not needed and 'on call'

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