Before contacting the court, it is vital to understand the distinction between these two concepts:
The ultimate irony is that the very act of postponing jury duty often exacerbates the problems it seeks to solve. By requesting a later date, one is not escaping the duty but merely shifting the burden to another time—a time that may prove equally, if not more, inconvenient. Many who postpone once find themselves summoned again during a vacation, a major project, or another period of high stress. This cycle can transform a single, manageable day of service into a lingering cloud of obligation. Conversely, those who choose to serve when first called often report a surprisingly positive experience: a fascinating glimpse into the legal system, a sense of purpose, and a deepened respect for the difficulty and importance of a juror’s role. The worst-case scenario—a long, tedious trial—is statistically rare; the majority of jurors serve for a single day or a short trial. postpone jury duty
If you fail to appear (FTA) and do not request a postponement: Before contacting the court, it is vital to