What this is
Getting a jury summons in the mail can feel stressful or inconvenient, but jury service is one of the most direct ways ordinary people participate in the justice system.
The basics
When you are summoned: Harris County sends jury summons by mail. You must respond — ignoring it can result in a fine up to $1,000 or contempt of court.
Where: Harris County Jury Assembly, 1201 Franklin Street, 1st Floor, Houston, TX 77002.
When to arrive: By 8:00 AM on your reporting date.
How long: Plan for a full day. Most jurors are released by 5 PM. If selected for a trial, service can last 1-5 days for most cases. Complex cases can run longer.
Pay: $6 for the first day. $40/day after that. Mileage reimbursement at the federal rate.
What to do when you get a summons
Do not ignore it. Respond even if you need a postponement.
Check your reporting date. The summons shows a specific date. Some summons also include a call-in number — call the evening before to confirm whether you still need to report.
Complete the juror questionnaire online at justex.net/jury or on the form included with your summons.
Request a postponement if the date does not work. You can postpone once (up to 6 months) online at justex.net/jury or by calling 713-755-6392.
Who qualifies
You are eligible if you are:
A U.S. citizen
At least 18 years old
A Harris County resident
Able to read and write English
Key contacts
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Not a convicted felon (unless rights have been restored)
Not currently under indictment
Exemptions and excuses
You may request an exemption if you are:
Over 70 years old
A primary caregiver for a child under 12 with no alternative care
A full-time student at a secondary school or college
An officer or employee of the U.S. Senate or House
Medical hardship, financial hardship, or other conflicts can be presented to the judge on your reporting day.
What happens when you report
Check in at the Jury Assembly room. Bring your summons, a photo ID, and something to read (there is usually waiting).
Watch the orientation video. About 20 minutes.
Wait to be called. You may be sent to a courtroom for voir dire (jury selection) or released for the day.
Voir dire: Attorneys and the judge ask you questions to determine if you can serve fairly on a particular case. Answer honestly. There is no wrong answer.
If selected: The judge will explain the schedule and rules. You must return each day until the trial concludes.
If not selected: You are released. Your service is complete. You will not be summoned again for at least 24 months.
Practical tips
Parking: Juror parking is available at 1301 Franklin Street. Bring your summons to validate.
Dress code: No shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Business casual is fine.
Cell phones: Allowed in the assembly room but NOT in courtrooms.
Food: The assembly room has vending machines. There are restaurants and food trucks nearby on Franklin and Congress.
Employer protections: Texas law prohibits employers from firing or penalizing you for jury service.
Harris County Jury Services: 713-755-6392
Online portal: justex.net/jury
Why it matters
This is part of Our Voice — civic life, elections, and accountability.
How to dig in
- 1Start with the snapshot above to know what this is in a glance.
- 2Read through to understand how it connects to the bigger picture.
- 3Get the guide using the button above.
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