I Am 74 Years Old. How Do I Opt Out of Jury Duty?

In most jurisdictions in the United States, individuals over a certain age can be excused or exempted from jury duty. The specific age varies by state, but 74 is often within the range for an optional exemption.

To opt out of jury duty, you will typically need to:

1. Review Your Summons: The jury summons itself usually contains instructions on how to request an excuse or postponement. Look for a section detailing exemptions or disqualifications based on age, medical conditions, or other reasons.
    
2. Contact the Clerk of Courts: The contact information for the clerk of courts or jury commissioner's office will be on your summons. You may need to call or write to them to inform them of your age and request the exemption.
    
3. Complete Necessary Forms: Some jurisdictions require you to fill out and return a specific form to claim an age-based exemption. This form might be included with your summons or available on the court's website.
    
4. Provide Documentation (if requested): While age alone is often sufficient, be prepared to provide a copy of your driver's license or other identification that verifies your birth date if the court requests it.

Important Note: Laws regarding jury duty exemptions can vary significantly by state and even by county. Always refer to the specific instructions provided on your jury summons and contact the issuing court for the most accurate and up-to-date information.