Grand Jury - Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You may use eJuror to respond to your summons. Otherwise, detach the Jury Information Form located on the lower half of your summons and return it by mail within 5 days. If it is beyond the 5 day limit, there is no need to call the court and let us know. Just return it as soon as possible.

Must I return the Jury Information Form, if I’m NOT asking for an excuse?

Yes. This is important since your response lets us know that you received your summons and are available to serve.

I returned my Jury Information Form, but now have a hardship. Is it too late?

It isn't too late. Contact us by e-mail as soon as possible and explain in writing why it is a hardship for you to report or serve as a grand juror. Do not assume that your request is granted until you hear back from the court.

What if I fail to appear for jury service?

If you are not excused by the court, you may be served with an Order to Show Cause by the U.S. Marshal’s Office. Which means you may have to appear to explain why you should not be held in contempt of the court pursuant to the Jury Selection and Service Act.

Contempt penalties range from a $1,000 fine, imprisoned not more than three days, ordered to perform community service, or any combination thereof. U.S.C. 28 Section 1866(g)

I don’t live in King County - Can I serve at the court near me?

No. This is a Federal court that only has locations in Seattle and Tacoma. We are required by statute to summon from the 19 counties that make up the Western district of Washington. Because of this, we are unable to transfer your service to another court.

Can my employer fire me for not working because of jury duty?

You do have certain rights while serving as a juror. Please see our Employment Protection Statute for more information. Your employer may also find this information helpful.

I lost my summons, what should I do?

Call the court as soon as possible at 1-800-488-3350 so that we can mail you a new summons. Or you may e-mail us.

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Will I be sequestered (required to spend the night)?

No. However, if you live at least 60 miles one-way from the courthouse, you are authorized to spend the night and be reimbursed for your expenses. Staying in a hotel

What if my employer wants me to be excused, but I want to serve?

We will only accept written excuse requests from the person called to serve, not an employer. You have certain rights if called to serve as a juror. Please see our Employment Protection Statute for more information.

I already performed jury service this year - I thought I only had to do it once?

This isn't entirely true. We do not have a provision that excuses you if you've recently served for another court. However, if you've served at a federal court (United States Court) within the past two years, we can excuse you. Please provide written proof, such as an attendance certificate, or contact us for verification.

How do I notify the court in the event of an emergency?

We would not expect you to report if a family or medical emergency arises over the weekend prior to your reporting date. Contact us by e-mail as soon as possible.

What should I expect on the first day I report?

You will report for a grand jury impanelment as part of a panel (or group) of prospective jurors. You will know that day whether you will begin serving starting on the date indicated on your summons.

Where is the court located?

The U.S. Courthouse in Seattle is located at 700 Stewart Street. Visit our Courthouse Information page for map and driving directions, as well as parking, and public transportation information.

Where should I park?

The courthouse in Seattle does not provide on-site parking, but there are numerous public parking lots within 3 blocks.

Parking fees are paid by you but we will fully reimburse you within two weeks that the expense was incurred. Do not leave your car parked in a metered space. You will not have time to leave to feed the meter and the court is not responsible for parking tickets.

What if I’m late?

It is extremely important that you report on time. Especially since the entire court proceeding can be delayed due to the tardiness of just one juror.

I live a great distance from the court, can I stay overnight?

You may stay overnight and receive reimbursement for your expenses if you live at least 60 miles from your home to the courthouse. If you aren’t sure whether you are eligible, you can map your mileage out on our Courthouse Information page. - Staying in a hotel

Can my family reach me by phone while I’m serving?

Yes. However, we have a policy of protecting a juror’s identity. Therefore, we will not confirm with anyone that you are currently serving. We will take non-urgent messages depending on the circumstances, but we usually take emergency messages only. Contact Us

Will food or refreshments be provided?

The court does not provide food, just coffee and tea. There are vending machines with snacks and beverages. and the courthouse has an onsite cafe. - U.S. Courthouse Cafe. Microwaves and refrigerators are available for your use. A list of area restaurants will be also be provided when you report.

Can I bring my cell phone and laptop computer?

Yes. We have a free wi-fi internet hotspot in the jury assembly room for jurors who choose to bring their laptops. There are two computers with internet access provided as a courtesy for jurors as well - subject to availability.

Can I bring my children?

Please don’t. Since you will be participating in an official court proceeding, you will not be able to provide proper supervision. If you are unable to make arrangements for child care, please contact the jury staff or follow your instructions on your summons to request a postponement.

What should I wear to jury service?

All jurors should wear appropriate attire, such as comfortable casual or business apparel. Please bring a sweater or jacket since the courtroom is often very cool.

Will I be reimbursed for my expenses when I show up?

No. We will mail you a check at least every two weeks while you are serving. If you have a financial hardship with paying for parking or hotel expenses, please contact a member of the jury staff PRIOR to reporting. Visit our Payment and Reimbursement page for more information.

What if my employer wants proof of me serving?

You will be offered a Certificate of Attendance letter for each day of service. It will be available before you leave the courthouse at the end of the sessions for the week.