Bring your summons and a valid ID

The two things you must have are your jury summons (the official notice that told you when and where to appear) and a valid government-issued photo ID. Without your summons, the court will not know you were called. Without ID, you cannot prove you are the person named on the summons. Bring the original summons, not a photocopy.

Valid IDs include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The court needs to confirm your identity before you enter the jury pool. If you have lost your summons, call the court listed on any paperwork you received — they can tell you whether to bring a replacement copy or if they have a record of your summons on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Your jury summons and a valid photo ID are required; without them, the court will turn you away.
  • Bring a notebook and pen to take notes during jury selection and trial, since most courts allow this.
  • Leave your phone on silent or off during the trial; many courts prohibit phone use in the courtroom or jury room.
  • Wear clothes you would wear to a job interview or professional meeting — courts expect respectful appearance.
  • Bring cash or a card for parking and meals, since jury duty locations may not have affordable food options nearby.

Documents that help but are not required

If you have a hardship letter from your employer, doctor, or caregiver, bring it. This is not required, but it can help if you need to ask the judge to postpone or excuse you from service. The letter should explain why jury duty would cause genuine financial or medical hardship — for example, that you are the sole caregiver for a parent or that your employer will not pay you during jury service.

If you received a questionnaire before your summons date, bring the completed copy. Some courts send these in advance to learn about jurors' backgrounds. Bring any other official court paperwork you received with your summons.

What to wear and what not to bring

Wear clothes that show respect for the court. Business casual or business formal is standard — think what you would wear to a job interview. Avoid very casual clothing like athletic wear, tank tops, or clothing with offensive language or images. Judges and attorneys form impressions during jury selection, and appearance matters.

Do not bring weapons of any kind, including pocket knives or pepper spray. Do not bring illegal drugs or alcohol. Do not bring large bags or backpacks; most courthouses have limited space and some restrict what you can carry inside. A small purse or briefcase is usually fine. Leave valuable jewelry at home if possible — courthouses can be crowded and theft happens.

Bring something to occupy downtime

Jury duty involves waiting. You may wait in a jury assembly room for hours before being called to a courtroom, or you may be dismissed after a single day. Bring a book, e-reader, or tablet to read. Bring headphones if you want to listen to music or a podcast, though you will need to remove them when you enter the courtroom or jury room.

Many courts now allow jurors to use phones and laptops in the waiting area, but this varies by courthouse. Call ahead if you want to know whether you can work on a laptop during downtime. Do not assume you can use your phone in the courtroom itself — most judges prohibit this, and using a phone during trial can get you held in contempt of court.

Bring money for meals and parking

Bring cash or a debit card. Jury duty locations may have a cafeteria or vending machines, but prices are often high and options limited. Many jurors bring their own lunch and snacks. If you are driving, bring enough cash or a card to cover parking — courthouse parking can cost $5 to $15 per day depending on the location, and some courts do not validate parking.

If you have a medical condition that requires specific food or medication, bring what you need. Tell a court officer if you have dietary restrictions; some courthouses can accommodate requests if you ask in advance.

Bring a notebook and pen

Most courts allow jurors to take notes during trial. Bring a small notebook and pen or pencil. Taking notes helps you remember testimony and evidence, especially in longer trials. Ask the judge at the start of trial whether note-taking is allowed — some judges prefer jurors not to take notes, though this is less common now.

Do not bring a laptop or tablet to take notes unless the court has told you this is permitted. Handwritten notes are standard and expected.

What the court will provide or prohibit

The court will provide a jury instruction packet, which explains the law you must apply to the case. You do not need to bring legal materials or reference books. The judge will explain the law; your job is to listen and apply it to the facts.

Most courts prohibit recording of any kind — no audio, video, or photographs. Do not post about jury duty on social media during the trial or while you are still serving. Many judges give specific instructions about this during jury selection. Violating these rules can result in contempt of court charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I lost my summons?

Call the court phone number on any paperwork you have. They can confirm whether you are still required to appear and may issue a replacement summons or tell you to come anyway with your ID. Do not skip jury duty without calling first — failure to appear can result in a fine or bench warrant.

Can I bring my child to jury duty?

No. Childcare is your responsibility. If you cannot find childcare, tell the judge during jury selection — this is a common reason courts postpone or excuse jurors. Do not bring children to the courthouse.

Do I need to bring proof of my hardship?

A letter from your employer or doctor is helpful but not always required. Bring whatever documentation supports your hardship claim — a medical note, a letter from your employer stating they do not pay during jury duty, or proof you are a caregiver. The judge will decide whether the hardship is serious enough to excuse you.

Can I bring my medication?

Yes. Bring any medication you need to take during the day. Tell a court officer if you need to take medication at a specific time; they can usually arrange a break. You do not need a prescription copy, but having one does not hurt.

What if the courthouse has metal detectors?

Most courthouses do. Arrive early so you have time to go through security. Remove your belt, phone, and keys before you reach the detector, just as you would at an airport. Your summons and ID will get you through security.