What to bring to jury duty (and what to leave home)

Jury duty days involve a lot of waiting, a security line, and sometimes a long walk from the parking lot. A little preparation makes the day far easier. Always check your summons and the court's website first, because rules on phones, laptops, and dress differ by courthouse.

The night before

• Confirm you still need to report. Many courts use a phone line or website to tell jurors the evening before. Colorado, for example, lists a "night before" number for each county. Trials settle often.
• Arrange childcare. Colorado's jury page reminds jurors to arrange childcare beforehand, because you can't bring children with you. Most courts are the same.
• Tell work your plan, if you haven't already. See our employer letter.
• Plan the route and parking. Some federal courts reimburse parking, according to the U.S. Courts. Keep receipts.

Bring

• Your summons and any juror badge or number, plus any questionnaire the court asked you to bring completed. Colorado, for example, asks jurors to bring a completed juror questionnaire.
• Photo ID.
• Something to occupy you. Colorado's page suggests a book. Bring something quiet and offline-friendly in case devices are restricted.
• Phone charger, if phones are allowed.
• Snacks and a water bottle, if permitted, and any medications you need during the day.
• A sweater. Courtrooms can be cold.
• Reading glasses or hearing aids, so you can follow the proceedings. Tell the court if you need an accommodation.

Leave at home (or check first)

Courthouses screen visitors much like airports do. Colorado notes that most of its courthouses have security screening similar to what you'd experience at an airport. Leave anything that could be considered a weapon at home, including pocketknives, multi-tools, and pepper spray. Check whether laptops, tablets, or cameras are allowed. Some courts restrict phone use in courtrooms and ask selected jurors to hand devices in during deliberations.

What to wear

Dress comfortably but respectfully. Many courts ask jurors to avoid shorts, tank tops, and clothing with slogans. The federal trial jurors' handbook has a section on courtroom etiquette, and the judge will explain expectations.

Before you leave for the day

Ask for a certificate or proof of attendance for your employer, and find out whether and when you need to come back. Note your days of service for your pay records. See the pay calculator.