Is It Possible to Get Out of Jury Duty?
Jury duty in Metairie, Louisiana, may involve serving on civil cases—such as personal injury or contract disputes—or criminal trials. It is possible to get out of jury duty, but only under specific legal exemptions. Alternatively, you may also avoid jury duty by requesting a deferral based on valid reasons such as medical, physical, or financial hardship. However, personal inconvenience is generally not sufficient for excusal.
Legal Grounds for Jury Duty Exemption in Louisiana
Age Exemption
Persons aged 70 or older may request a permanent exemption from jury duty online from the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court. However, you cannot request the permanent exemption if you are currently scheduled for jury duty. In that case, you must request an age exemption for the current jury service. Then file for a permanent exemption afterward.
Recent Jury Service
Individuals are exempt from jury duty if they served less than two years before their next scheduled service. You need to expressly claim the exemption with the court to get out of jury duty.
Medical or Physical Hardship
Louisiana law allows individuals with physical or mental conditions rendering them incapable of serving to request a waiver of jury service for up to 24 months. In addition, the court requires documentation from a licensed physician. The documentation must verify that the individual is unable to serve because of the condition.
Undue or Extreme Physical or Financial Hardship
If jury service would cause undue financial or physical hardship to you or someone in your care, you may request to be excused from jury duty. The law defines “undue hardship” as being required to abandon a person under the juror’s personal care because it is impossible to obtain an appropriate caregiver. Additionally, it covers incurring costs that would substantially impact the juror’s ability to pay necessary living expenses. Or the juror suffering physical hardship because of an existing disease or illness.
Language Barrier
Individuals must be able to read, speak, and write the English language to serve on a jury in Louisiana. If not, they should notify the Jury Commission immediately upon receiving a jury notice.
How to Request an Exemption or Deferral from Jury Duty in Metairie, LA
Your jury summons will provide instructions on how to request exemptions or deferrals. Submit the required documentation and supporting evidence, such as a doctor’s note, proof of age, or prior jury service documentation, to the clerk of court or the Jury Commission as directed in the jury summons.
Important Notes and Rights for Jurors in Metairie, LA
Exemptions from jury duty are not automatic. Even if you qualify because of your age or recent service, you must request the exemption each time you are summoned. It is also important to note that Louisiana law forbids employers from firing or penalizing employees for serving jury duty. It also mandates paid leave for jury service days. Jurors receive $25 per day plus mileage reimbursement. This amount varies by jurisdiction within Louisiana.
Contact a Metairie Personal Injury Lawyer at Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Please contact Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Metairie, LA, today.
