In Texas, ignoring a jury summons can result in legal consequences. According to Texas Government Code ยง 62.0141, failing to answer a jury summons can lead to contempt action punishable by a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000. Those who fail to appear in court without a reasonable excuse or file a false claim for exemption from jury service can face fines between $100 and $500. After reporting for jury duty, potential jurors undergo a selection process, and more than two-thirds are typically not selected to serve. Jury service length varies, with selection often lasting a day or less, while trials may run longer. Texas jurors are paid at least $20 for the first day and at least $58 for each additional day. Jurors can be excused or rescheduled if serving would create a personal hardship or conflicts with a religious holy day they observe.
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Ignoring Jury Duty in Texas: Fines, Excuses, and What to Know
Texas law requires people to respond to jury summonses, with penalties for skipping service and potential excuses for hardships or religious holidays.
Published May 18, 2026 at 10:00am by Marley Malenfant
