Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Jury Duty if Your Spouse was Convicted of a Felony

If your spouse was convicted of a felony, is this grounds for dismissal from jury duty (for the non-convicted spouse)?

This is not a question on the summons form for the potential juror. When reporting for duty, is this question ever asked?

And what if you believe that your spouse's conviction was unfair?


Asked on 9/09/08, 11:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Jury Duty if Your Spouse was Convicted of a Felony

Spouses of convicted felons are eligible to serve. Your spouse's conviction doesn't disqualify you.

Before potential jurors become part of an actual jury, the judge and/or the lawyers will normally ask them several questions about their experience with the justice system. Your background will likely come out during this process. If the lawyers or the judge believe you can't be impartial, you will probably be excused.

Keep in mind that many jurors hear civil cases. Your spouse's conviction is less likely to be relevant in a civil case than in a criminal one.

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Answered on 9/10/08, 1:58 pm


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