Can I bring water to jury duty?
Asked by: Dr. Weldon Ruecker | Last update: February 4, 2026Score: 4.4/5 (45 votes)
Yes, you can generally bring water to jury duty, but it depends on the specific courthouse rules; most allow water in a lidded bottle, though some courts, like Tuolumne County in CA, prohibit all drinks in the courtroom, so check your local court's guidelines, but often you can bring it to the waiting areas and sometimes even the courtroom if it's plain water in a sealed container. It's best to bring your own bottled water in a clear or metal container (like a Hydro Flask) for waiting areas and be prepared for potential restrictions inside the courtroom, as rules vary.
What disqualifies you from jury duty in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, jury duty exemptions aren't automatic for most, but you can be excused by a judge for health issues, primary caregiving responsibilities (especially for children or the elderly), being 80 or older (voluntary), or undue hardship like extreme travel/financial burden; however, occupation (doctors, teachers, etc.) isn't an exemption, and you must request excusal to the court for specific conflicts or hardships.
What are you not allowed to do as a juror?
Key Concepts. Jurors are prohibited from any conduct that would interfere with ensuring a fair and impartial trial, such as having contact with the parties, talking with other people about the case, or allowing outside information or evidence to influence the jury's decision.
What can I bring to MA jury duty?
You should bring:
- Your completed Confidential Juror Questionnaire.
- Reading material, work, or something to do while you're not participating in a panel.
- Money for parking and food.
- Water, coffee, or another drink, if you wish.
Is water allowed in a court room?
(1) No gum, drinks, or food are allowed in the courtroom. Attorneys and parties may have water at the counsel tables during a hearing.
Can I Bring Water To Jury Duty? - CountyOffice.org
Can I bring drinks to jury duty?
Should I bring food or drink when I report for jury duty? You are welcome to bring a non-alcoholic beverage such as water, coffee, or soda. Please use a cup/bottle with a lid/cap. Meals are not provided (except during jury deliberations) but there will be a lunch break.
What are two things jurors should never do?
Jurors should never discuss the case with anyone outside the jury (including family/friends) or conduct their own investigation, like visiting the scene or looking up info online, as the verdict must be based solely on courtroom evidence; these actions risk introducing bias and jeopardizing the trial's fairness. Another critical "never" is to decide by chance, such as by flipping coins, which makes a verdict illegal.
Can I wear jeans to jury duty Massachusetts?
Yes, you can generally wear jeans to jury duty in Massachusetts, but they must be clean, neat, not ripped or torn, and paired with respectful, business-casual attire; avoid overly casual items like shorts, tank tops, t-shirts with graphics, or flip-flops, as the goal is to show respect for the court.
Why are we paid so little for jury duty?
We're paid so little for jury duty because it's considered a civic duty, not a job, with small payments meant for expenses like gas and food, not lost wages, though this creates significant hardship, especially for low-income workers, as employer pay isn't federally required, leading to low overall compensation that struggles to match minimum wage and hinders diverse participation in the justice system.
Are you allowed to cry as a juror?
Crying alone may not be juror misconduct. But there are circumstances where a juror's emotions may result in an unfair trial. Laurie Levenson, professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, said it has been a difficult problem for courts to sort out.
Is it bad to wear jeans to jury duty?
What is acceptable attire for jury service? “Business casual” is considered the appropriate way to dress for jury service. Nice jeans are also allowed. Shorts, uniforms, tank tops, flip flops, holes in any clothing is not allowed.
Is jury duty ever just one day?
Yes, jury duty can absolutely last just one day, especially in jurisdictions that use the "one-day/one-trial" system, where your service ends if you aren't selected for a trial by the end of the day, or if you are selected, it ends when that specific trial concludes. Many jurors only serve one day during their potential two-week service period, though if seated on a trial, you must serve until it ends, which can be longer.
How long is a day of jury duty usually?
A normal jury day will begin between 8:00 and 9:00 am and will end at either 2:30 or 5:00 pm. Once the jury is in deliberation, the times may vary. Yes, there will be breaks during the trial.
What is the best excuse to avoid jury duty?
The best ways to get out of jury duty involve seeking official exemptions for valid reasons like age (over 70/75), medical conditions (with a doctor's note), primary childcare (under 6), or financial hardship (demonstrable income loss), or requesting a deferral online or by mail with supporting documents. During selection (voir dire), be honest about biases or situations (like family tragedy, travel) that prevent impartiality, as attorneys often excuse jurors who openly struggle with fairness, but avoid outright lying, which can backfire.
What happens if you fall asleep during jury duty?
If you fall asleep during jury duty, the judge can have you woken up, repeated information, or even dismiss you and replace you with an alternate juror, potentially leading to a mistrial or new trial if you missed crucial evidence, though a short nap might just result in being gently roused, while repeated offenses or missing significant testimony can lead to being removed or even facing contempt of court.
Can I bring my own water bottle to jury duty?
Yes, you can generally bring a water bottle to jury duty, but it must often be empty or sealed to pass security screening, and some courthouses allow sealed bottles, while others might restrict all beverages in the courtroom but provide water. Always check your specific court's rules, but bringing a reusable bottle to fill up later, or a sealed one, is usually a safe bet for staying hydrated during long waits.
Can you leave jury duty for lunch?
Jurors are generally free to leave the building for lunch. You may not take food or beverages into the courtroom. You must not be late returning from lunch at the time specified by the judge or clerk in charge.
What if you have to pee during jury duty?
If you need to pee during jury duty, raise your hand and ask the judge for permission for a break, or quietly ask a court officer, as judges provide regular breaks and will stop proceedings for an emergency restroom need. Don't hesitate to ask, as your primary job is to pay attention, and needing to use the restroom can be distracting.
What not to say to a judge in court?
You should not say anything sarcastic, interrupt the judge, lie, use slang, make personal attacks on others, guarantee outcomes, or speak about things not relevant to the case; instead, remain respectful, address the judge as "Your Honor," answer only the question asked, and be direct and truthful to maintain credibility.
What colors are best to wear for jury duty?
The suit color you wear should be neutral like the navy suit that's pictured, but feel free to wear a grey or charcoal suit. We hope our guide was helpful and helps you select the right outfit for your jury duty.
What color do judges like to see in court?
Judges generally prefer neutral, conservative colors like navy, gray, black, and white, as these convey seriousness, respect, and professionalism, avoiding distractions in a formal court setting; bright colors, bold patterns, and overly casual attire should be avoided to show you're taking the proceedings seriously. While some suggest lighter, muted tones (like light blue) might leave a favorable impression, the key is sobriety and fitting in, not standing out.
What not to say during jury duty?
At jury duty, avoid saying anything that shows bias, prejudges the case, disrespects the court, or reveals outside information; don't make sarcastic comments, overshare personal experiences, or claim you're too busy, but be honest about true hardships, as saying you'll be biased or have prior knowledge (like being a doctor in a medical case) can actually get you excused.
What annoys judges?
Not following the judges rules and orders. Not being prepared for trial or hearing. Being late for trial or hearings. All of these shows a lack of respect for the court and judges really don't like it.