Reporting for Jury Duty

Jury Notice vs. Jury Summons

Jury Notice
Receiving a jury notice means you are part of the potential juror pool for the term listed. You are not required to appear in person unless you later receive a jury summons. Follow any instructions on the notice, including completing a juror questionnaire.

Jury Summons
A summons means you are required to report on the specific date(s) listed. Review the summons carefully and complete all required questionnaires if you haven't already.

You’ve Been Summoned, Now What?

• Read your summons thoroughly.
• Note where, when, and what time you need to report.
• Complete all required forms or questionnaires before arrival.

Do You Have to Appear?

Yes — unless:

• The trial is canceled, or
• You have received an official excusal from the judge.

If you need to request an excusal, submit an Affidavit of Excusal following the instructions on your summons. Excusals are not guaranteed and may be denied.
Failing to appear without an approved excuse can result in legal penalties.

The Night Before Jury Duty

Trials often settle right before they are scheduled to begin. Most courts provide a status update online, or through a recorded phone message. Follow the instructions in your summons to confirm whether you still need to report.

Reporting for Jury Duty (Day Of)

• Arrive early.
• Bring your jury summons and a valid photo ID.
• Dress comfortably and respectfully.
• Check in with court staff as directed.

During Voir Dire (Juror Selection):

• The judge and attorneys may ask you questions to identify any conflicts of interest or biases.
• Some individuals will be excused, while others will be selected as jurors or alternates.
• If selected, you must stay for the entire trial. Trials may last one day or extend for several weeks.

Important: You may not discuss the case with anyone until the trial has completely concluded.

After the case is presented and arguments are finished, jurors will move to the deliberation room to reach a verdict.

Juror Compensation

In Montana (non‑federal courts):

• If you report but are not selected for the jury: $12.00 + mileage
• If you are selected for the jury panel: $25.00/day + mileage

Resources

For accurate details related to your specific summons refer to the website of the court that summoned you. Each court operates slightly differently, so the local instructions always take priority.