Jury Duty & SCRA Guide

Got a jury duty summons? Learn your SCRA postponement rights, how to request a delay, and a template letter to send the court.

SCRA allows active duty members (and sometimes spouses) to postpone jury duty. Courts must grant at least one postponement on request.

Your Status

SCRA Protections Apply

You have the right to postpone jury duty under SCRA. Courts MUST grant at least one postponement upon request.

How to Request Postponement

1
Respond to the summons immediately
Never ignore a jury duty summons. Respond within the deadline stated.
2
Write a postponement request letter
State your name, case number, and that you are requesting postponement under SCRA (50 U.S.C. § 3932).
3
Include a copy of your military orders or ID
Active duty orders, deployment orders, or a letter from your commanding officer.
4
Send via certified mail with return receipt
Keep proof of mailing. Some courts also accept email or online submissions.
5
Follow up to confirm receipt
Call the court clerk if you don't receive confirmation within 2 weeks.

Postponement Letter Template

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Date] Clerk of the Court [Court Name and Address] RE: Jury Duty Postponement Request Case/Juror Number: [Your Number] Reporting Date: [Date on Summons] Dear Clerk, I am writing to request a postponement of my jury service obligation under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. § 3932). I am currently [serving on active duty / the spouse of an active duty service member] in the United States [Branch]. My military service materially affects my ability to serve as a juror at this time. Enclosed is a copy of my [active duty orders / military ID / commanding officer letter]. I respectfully request that my jury service be postponed to a later date. I understand that SCRA requires the court to grant a postponement of no less than 90 days. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, [Your Name] [Rank, if applicable] [Phone Number]

Frequently Asked Questions

Never ignore a jury duty summons. Respond promptly and request postponement if needed. SCRA guarantees at least one postponement for active duty service members. Courts must grant a minimum 90-day postponement.

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