Jury Duty in Harris County: What You Need to Know

When you get a jury summons in Harris County, you must respond — ignoring it can result in a fine up to $1,000. Plan for a full day. Most jurors are released by 5 PM. If selected for a trial, service lasts 1-5 days for most cases.

Where: Harris County Jury Assembly, 1201 Franklin Street, 1st Floor, Houston, TX 77002.

Pay: $6 for the first day. $40/day after that.

Source: Harris County District Clerk; Texas Government Code

Eligibility: U.S. citizen, at least 18, Harris County resident, can read/write English, not a convicted felon (unless rights restored).

Exemptions: Over 70, primary caregiver for child under 12 with no alternative care, full-time student, or officer/employee of Congress. Medical/financial hardship presented to the judge on reporting day.

Postponement: You can postpone once (up to 6 months) online at justex.net/jury or by calling 713-755-6392.

What happens: Check in, watch orientation video, wait. You may be sent to a courtroom for voir dire (jury selection) or released. If not selected, your service is complete — you will not be summoned again for 24 months.

Source: Harris County Jury Services

1. Complete the questionnaire online at justex.net/jury
2. Call the night before to confirm whether you need to report
3. Arrive by 8 AM. Bring summons, photo ID, something to read
4. Dress code: No shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Business casual fine.
5. Cell phones: OK in assembly room, NOT in courtrooms
6. Parking: 1301 Franklin Street. Bring summons to validate.

Employer protections: Texas law prohibits employers from firing or penalizing you for jury service.

• Jury Services: 713-755-6392
• Online: justex.net/jury