What Happens if You Fail to Show Up for Jury Duty in Arizona?

If you're an Arizona resident called for jury duty, don't ignore the summons. As long as you're a U.S. citizen between the ages of 18 and 75, you must appear unless you submit a written excuse and it is accepted. That doesn't mean you can't postpone service if the summons comes at an inconvenient time. However, once you've rescheduled, Arizona law doesn't permit another postponement unless an extreme emergency occurs.

Arizona law allows for second chances if you don't show up for your initial summons to jury duty. Under state law, anyone who doesn't appear after the jury notice is sent via first class mail is summoned again either by first class, certified or registered mail. Failing to show up after this second attempt at notification can result in being charged with contempt of court and being compelled to attend jury duty on a specified date. It can also result in a fine of up to $500.

It's important to appear promptly when called for jury duty. If you're late, you'll receive a failure to appear summons requiring you to appear for jury duty within two to three months. The Superior Court of Maricopa County advises jurors to arrive at least half an hour before their scheduled check-in time.