FAQ
I received a summons in the mail, now what?
As a United States citizen, you are required by law to appear on the date listed on your summons. Individuals summoned for jury duty should appear at the time and day listed on your summons. Please bring your state issued photo ID with you.
How should I dress?
Wear business attire which reflects the seriousness of jury service. Please do not wear uniforms, especially those with badges and/or name plates. For your comfort, we suggest you bring a sweater or jacket.
How long do I have to be there?
Jury duty usually lasts one week. If your services are not needed on a particular day during the week you are summoned, you will be excused and told when to return. The court staff recognizes the value of your time and will work to expedite your release whenever possible.
How much am I paid for Jury duty?
Jurors receive an expense allowance of $30.00 per day of service. The court will issue a check for your service.
How are the jurors picked?
Jurors are picked randomly from a computer generated list of eligible citizens complied from the Voters Registrar’s Office, the Department of Driver Services and other lists provided and certified by the State of Georgia.
Can I bring my computer or iPad?
Cell phones or any electronic device is not allowed.
How old do you have to be before you don’t have to serve anymore?
Persons aged 70 or above may sign an affidavit asking that their name be removed from the jury list. However, we do appreciate all of your life experiences as a seasoned juror. All jurors are encouraged to come at least once to see the process.
What is the difference between a Traverse Jury and a Grand Jury?
A Traverse jury is generally composed of 12 people impaneled to try a criminal or civil case. In a criminal trial, the jury must determine whether the state has presented proof beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. In a civil trial, the jury will decide all questions of fact and shall determine whether the plaintiff has a valid complaint and should be awarded the relief requested.
A Grand jury is composed of not less than 16 and no more than 23 people and 3 alternates who are to hear evidence and to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to formally charge the defendant with committing a crime and to require an accused to stand trial. The Grand Jury does not determine the accused’s guilt or innocence.
Can I change my date of jury duty service?
Request may be submitted for the following reasons. You must complete and have notarized the Affidavit for Exemption which is located on the back side of your summons. Documentation must also be provided.
(1) You have a vacation planned for the week you are summoned
(2) Your employer has you scheduled for training
(3) You have a doctor’s appointment
(4) You have surgery scheduled
(5) You have a prior commitment for the week for which you are summoned.
A one-time deferral can be given under these circumstances, in order for you to make some arrangements, although documentation is required. Our office will attempt to schedule a more convenient date for you to the best of our ability. However, none of the above situations are grounds for jury exemption under Georgia Law. Requests may be submitted by completing the Affidavit for Exemption located on the back side of your summons.
Can I be excused from Jury Duty?
Georgia Law allows exemptions for the following reasons. You must complete and have notarized the Affidavit for Exemption which is located on the back side of your summons. Documentation must also be provided with the affidavit.
(1) Any person who is 70 years of age or older and has requested a permanent exemption (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(b))
(2) Any person who is not a resident of the county for which they have been summoned (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(a)(1))
(3) Any person who is a full-time student, with proof of current enrollment (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1(a)(2))
(4) Any person who is a military service member or spouse of a service member with proof of active military status (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(c)(2))
(5) Any person who is the primary teacher in a home study program with a copy of their Declaration of Intent to Utilize a Home School Study Program (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1(a)(4))
(6) Any person who is the primary caregiver of a child age six or younger (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(a)(1))
(7) Any person who is the primary unpaid caregiver for a person over six with such physical or cognitive limitations and unable to care for themselves (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(a)(5))
(8) Any person who has an affidavit from their doctor that states the person is permanently mentally or physically disabled (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(a)(1))
(9) Any person who is not a U.S. Citizen (O.C.G.A. §15-12-4-(b))
(10) Any person who is a convicted felon and who has not had their civil rights restored. (O.C.G.A. §15-12-1.1(a)(1))
Click here to view the Affidavit for Excusal, Deferral or Inactivation