Jury Duty
Jury Duty Scam Alert
Public Advisory - Telephone Scam Warning
Serving on a jury is an important civic responsibility that is coordinated by the Hanover County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. You can find general information about jury service in the Virginia Judicial System’s brochure titled “The Answer Book for Jury Service (PDF)”
Receiving a Summons
Jury summonses are delivered by US mail. The summons will indicate the dates you have been asked to serve and will provide instructions on what to do. Receiving a summons does not necessarily mean that you will serve on a jury, but you will be in a pool of candidates who could potentially serve.
Determining Whether You Need to Report to Court:
During the weeks of December 4, 2023 and December 11, 2023, there are no Jury trials scheduled.
Preparing for Court
Wear conservative clothes comparable to what you’d wear in a business environment. It’s possible that you’ll spend a long day in court, so it’s also important to wear comfortable clothing.
Once you arrive at the courthouse, there may be downtime. It’s a good idea to bring some quiet activities, such as a book or crossword puzzle, that you can do while you wait. The judge will tell you how long he or she thinks the trial will last, so that you can make work and childcare arrangements or raise concerns about your ability to serve.
Relief From Jury Service
Excusals from jury service must be submitted as soon as possible and may not be granted if requested less than 48 hours before trial unless in case of emergency.
If you need to be excused from jury service for a part or the entire term or believe you are exempted by law from serving, mail a written request to be excused to:
- Hanover Circuit Court
Attention: Jury Service Excusal
P.O. Box 505
Hanover, VA 23069
Send your request before your jury service begins. Excusal from Jury Service (PDF) discusses common exemptions.
Questions
Using the juror information number 804-365-6352 is the best way to get up-to-date information about your service requirements.
If you have questions about being excused from jury service, call 804-365-3205.
For general questions, call the jury coordinator at 804-365-6493 or 365-6864.