Is jury service mandatory?

The United States Constitution and the Washington State Constitution guarantee the right to trial by jury.  Failure to attend as directed may subject you to penalties provided by law.  All Island County residents who are registered voters or licensed drivers are obligated by state law to serve as a juror unless they:

  • Are not a United States citizen;
  • Are under 18 years of age;
  • Are unable to communicate in the English language;
  • Have been convicted of a felony and their rights have not been restored.  (See RCW 29A.08.520 to check if you meet restoration requirements.)

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1. Is jury service mandatory?
2. Is there an age limit?
3. Why did I receive a summons for jury duty?
4. I received a summons again. Why do I get one every year while my spouse has not received one?
5. Why did I get a summons if I'm not a citizen?
6. How can I be excused from jury service?
7. What is the penalty for skipping jury duty?
8. I have a conflicting appointment during one of my weeks. What should I do?
9. What if I am unable to sit for long periods of time?
10. I'm active duty military. Can I be excused?
11. I live on Camano Island. Do I still need to report for jury duty?
12. I don't have a stamp. How can I return my summons?
13. Where is my Candidate ID?
14. How do I know which court I am assigned to?
15. How long is my jury duty?
16. My group number was selected to report for jury duty. How long is the trial going to last?
17. I have a family member that works in Law Enforcement. Can I be excused?
18. Do you provide childcare?
19. I've just returned from vacation and found a summons in my mail. What should I do if it's past the 10 days?
20. What should I wear to court?
21. I received a card in the mail stating I did not turn in my summons. I never received a summons, so what should I do?