Jury Duty Transfer: How to Write a Request Letter
Receiving a jury duty summons can be disruptive, especially if the scheduled date conflicts with work, family obligations, or other commitments. While avoiding jury duty entirely is often difficult, you can request a transfer or postponement. A well-written transfer request letter clearly explains your reasons for needing a different date and significantly increases your chances of having your request approved. This guide provides everything you need to know to craft a compelling and professional letter.
Before writing, carefully review your jury duty summons and any accompanying instructions. Note the deadline for submitting a transfer request and any specific requirements outlined by the court. Gather supporting documentation that reinforces your reason for needing a transfer. For example, a letter from your employer verifying a critical business need, a doctor’s note explaining a medical condition, or daycare registration confirming childcare responsibilities. A clear and concise letter, supported by evidence, demonstrates your respect for the legal system while advocating for your individual circumstances.
How to Craft Your Jury Duty Transfer Request Letter
Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the appropriate court official. Clearly state your name, address, and jury summons number in the opening paragraph. Immediately indicate that you are requesting a transfer and briefly state the reason for your request. In the body of the letter, provide a detailed explanation of why serving on the assigned date would cause a significant hardship. Be specific and factual, avoiding emotional language. If possible, suggest alternative dates when you would be available to serve. This shows your willingness to fulfill your civic duty while accommodating your personal needs.
Finally, thank the court for considering your request. Reiterate your willingness to serve on a different date and provide your contact information. Close with a formal valediction, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by your signature. Proofread your letter carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling before submitting it. Maintaining a professional tone and ensuring accuracy are crucial for conveying your request effectively and demonstrating your respect for the court’s process.
Sample Jury Duty Transfer Request Letters (21 Examples)
Sample 1: Work Conflict
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. Due to a critical, unavoidable work commitment, serving on this date would cause significant disruption to my employer and my professional responsibilities.
I am the [Your Job Title] at [Your Company Name]. We are currently in the midst of a vital project, [Project Name], which requires my full attention and participation. My absence during this period would severely impact the project’s timeline and success. I have attached a letter from my supervisor, [Supervisor’s Name], verifying this critical business need.
I am available to serve on jury duty starting [Suggest Start Date] through [Suggest End Date]. I understand the importance of fulfilling my civic duty and am committed to serving when it is feasible. Thank you for considering my request. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Medical Reason
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. Due to an ongoing medical condition, serving on this date would be extremely difficult for me.
I have been diagnosed with [Medical Condition] and am currently under the care of [Doctor’s Name]. My condition requires regular medication and can sometimes cause [Symptoms] which would make it difficult for me to sit for long periods of time or focus on the proceedings. I have attached a letter from my doctor, [Doctor’s Name], outlining my medical condition and its potential impact on my ability to serve on a jury.
I would be available to serve jury duty starting [Suggest Start Date] after I have my surgery done. I understand the importance of fulfilling my civic duty and am committed to serving when it is feasible. Thank you for considering my request. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Caregiver Responsibilities
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am the primary caregiver for [Person’s Name], who is [Relationship to you] and requires constant care.
[Person’s Name] is [Age] years old and [Explain their condition – e.g., has a disability, is elderly and frail]. I am responsible for [List caregiving duties – e.g., feeding, bathing, administering medication, providing transportation to medical appointments]. There are no alternative caregivers available to provide this level of care in my absence. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Sole Proprietor/Small Business Owner
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. As the sole proprietor of [Your Business Name], my absence would cause significant hardship to my business and my ability to support my family.
I am the only employee of my business, and my presence is essential for its daily operations. Closing my business for an extended period would result in a loss of income and potential damage to my reputation. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Student Enrollment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am a full-time student at [University Name], and serving during this time would conflict with my academic schedule.
My classes are [List classes or say “critical to my academic progress”]. Missing these classes would significantly impact my grades and ability to graduate on time. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Travel Plans (Pre-booked and Non-refundable)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I have pre-booked, non-refundable travel plans for [Destination] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
These travel plans were made [Explain why the travel is important – e.g., a family vacation, a business trip]. Cancelling these plans would result in significant financial loss. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Living Far Away
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I currently reside [Distance] from the courthouse, making it a significant burden for me to travel daily.
Due to the distance and [Explain transportation issues], serving jury duty on the assigned dates would be extremely challenging. I would appreciate the opportunity to serve when I am residing closer to the courthouse or when alternative arrangements can be made. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Pregnancy
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am currently pregnant and due to give birth on [Due Date].
The physical demands of jury duty, including sitting for extended periods, would be difficult for me during this stage of my pregnancy. I am happy to serve after I have recovered from childbirth. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Recent Bereavement
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I recently experienced the loss of [Relationship to you], [Name of deceased], who passed away on [Date of death].
I am still grieving this loss, and I believe that I would not be able to focus and participate fully in jury duty at this time. I would be grateful for a transfer to a later date when I have had more time to recover. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Language Barrier
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. My primary language is [Your primary language], and I have limited proficiency in English.
I am concerned that my limited English skills would prevent me from fully understanding the court proceedings and contributing effectively as a juror. I believe my participation would be improved with an interpreter present, or if I could serve in a different setting. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Conflict of Interest
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. Due to my [Profession/Relationship to someone involved in the legal system], I believe I have a potential conflict of interest that would prevent me from being an impartial juror.
[Explain the specific conflict of interest – e.g., “I am a lawyer and often work with the prosecuting attorney’s office,” or “My spouse is employed by the defendant’s company.”] I feel that this connection could compromise my ability to be objective in the case. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Military Service
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am currently serving in the [Branch of Military] and will be deployed from [Start Date] to [End Date].
My military duties prevent me from fulfilling my jury duty obligation at this time. I am committed to serving when I return from deployment. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: No Transportation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I do not have access to reliable transportation to the courthouse.
[Explain why you lack transportation. Example: My car is currently out of service. Public transport is not available from where I live]. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Mental Health Concerns
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am currently receiving treatment for [Mental Health Condition], and serving on a jury would be detrimental to my mental well-being.
Serving on a jury would create significant anxiety, and could trigger symptoms. A letter from my therapist or psychiatrist is attached. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Recent Surgery
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I recently underwent surgery on [Date] and am still in recovery.
Due to my recovery process, I am unable to sit for long periods, lift or carry heavy objects, or concentrate for extended periods. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Scheduled Medical Appointment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I have a pre-scheduled and vital medical appointment with [Doctor’s Name] on [Date and Time].
This appointment is for [Explain briefly what the appointment is for, e.g., a check-up following a surgery, ongoing treatment]. The appointment is difficult to reschedule, as it was booked months in advance. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Lack of Childcare
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am the sole caregiver for my [Child’s Age]-year-old child, [Child’s Name], and I do not have access to affordable or reliable childcare during the dates of jury duty.
[Explain why childcare is an issue – e.g., childcare center is closed, no family available]. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Teacher During School Year
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I am a full-time teacher at [School Name] and serving during the school year would significantly disrupt my students’ learning.
My absence would be difficult to cover. I can serve without disruption during the [Summer Holidays/Winter Break]. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 19: Recently Moved
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I recently moved to [New City/State] on [Date of Move]. I received the summons at my old address.
I do not reside within this juridistion anymore. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 20: Undue Hardship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. Serving at that time would cause undue hardship because [Explain in detail the circumstances causing hardship].
[Provide additional details as possible. E.g, financial circumstances]. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 21: Previously Served Recently
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Clerk of Court Name/Title]
[Court Address]
[Court City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Transfer Jury Duty – Summons #[Your Summons Number]
Dear [Clerk of Court Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer of my jury duty service, as I am scheduled to appear on [Original Date]. My summons number is [Your Summons Number]. I served on a jury from [Start Date] to [End Date] and am therefore exempt from serving again for [Length of Exemption].
I believe I am exempt. I have attached [Number] documents as requested.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
Writing a transfer request letter for jury duty is a straightforward process that can help you manage conflicts with your personal or professional life. By following the tips and using the provided sample letters as a guide, you can craft a professional and compelling request. Remember to be honest, specific, and respectful in your communication. While there’s no guarantee that your request will be approved, presenting a well-reasoned and supported letter significantly increases your chances of a successful outcome. Good luck!
