Jury Duty

Jury Service is one of the highest responsibilities of citizenship.  It is also a very interesting experience and provides an opportunity to learn more about our judicial system. While we understand that serving as a juror may require some adjustment in your normal schedule, we hope that any inconvenience will be minimal and that you will enjoy this opportunity to participate in this vital democratic process. 

On the day before you are to report for jury duty, you must call (337) 463-7993 to hear a recorded message advising whether or not you must report for duty. This is because sometimes cases which were scheduled for trial are resolved and your service will not be needed. If you are advised to report, please arrive at the courthouse no later than the time designated on your summons. You will be subject to search upon entering the courthouse. Please note that cell phones are not allowed in the courthouse. Proper clothing is required; no tank tops, halters, or shorts.

To serve as a Juror:

  • You must be a citizen of the United States and of Louisiana and have resided in Beauregard Parish for at least one year.

  • You must be at least eighteen years of age.

  • You must be able to read and write English.

  • You must not be interdicted or incapable of serving because of a mental or physical infirmity.

  • You must not be under indictment, incarcerated under an order of imprisonment, or on probation or parole for a felony offense within the five-year period immediately preceding jury service.

ONLY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS MAY CLAIM EXEMPTIONS FROM JURY SERVICE:

  • Persons who have served as a juror (not including service on a federal court jury) during a period of four years immediately preceding their selection for jury duty.

  • Persons who are 70 years of age or older.

These exemptions are personal exemptions and NOT disqualifications.  If you do not wish to claim the exemption, you may waive it and choose to serve on the jury.

PLEASE NOTE: THE COURT DOES NOT NORMALLY GRANT EXCUSES, EXCEPT FOR UNDUE HARDSHIP OR EXTREME INCONVENIENCE.  IF THE HARDSHIP IS MEDICAL, A NOTE FROM YOUR DOCTOR VERIFYING YOUR CONDITION IS REQUIRED. TO BE PRE-EXCUSED FROM SERVICE, YOU MUST CONTACT THE COURT AND PROVIDE NECESSARY DOCUMENTATION AT LEAST SEVEN (7) DAYS PRIOR TO THE DATE YOU ARE TO REPORT.