Jury Service

Cases heard by the Bedford Municipal Court are Class C misdemeanor violations that are punishable by fine only. Jurors are selected from a random list of voter registrations. Jury service is normally for one day, and jurors are paid $6 per day.

Jurors serving are to appear at the Bedford Municipal Court – 2000 Forest Ridge Drive Bedford, Texas 76021 at 9 a.m. unless otherwise directed by the City of Bedford Municipal Court.

No shorts, no hats, and no tank tops are allowed in the courtroom.

Exemption from Jury Service

The following persons, by statute, and no others may claim an exemption from jury service if the person wishes to do so:

  • Persons over 75 years of age.
  • Persons who have legal custody of a child or children under the age of 12 years if jury service by that person would necessitate leaving the child or children without adequate supervision.
  • All students of public or private secondary school.
  • Every person who is enrolled and in actual attendance at an institution of higher education.
  • Persons who are the primary caretaker of a person who is an invalid unable to care for himself or herself.
  • An officer or an employee of the Senate, House of Representatives, or any department, commission, board, office, or other agency in the legislative branch of state government.
  • He or she has served as a petit juror in the county during the 24-month period preceding the date he/she is to appear for jury service. (Only applies to counties with a population of at least 200,000 unless the county uses a jury plan under 62.011, Government Code, and the period authorized under Section 62.011 (b)(6) exceeds 2 years.)
  • No longer resides in Bedford.
  • Not a citizen of the United States.

Excuses for other reasons should be proposed to the court at the call of the jury roll.

Claim Statutory Exemption

If you wish to claim a statutory exemption, please complete and submit an affidavit for exemption. For any questions pertaining to this summons, please contact the court at 817-952-2151.

Qualifications for Jury Service

  • To be qualified to serve as a juror you must (Texas Government Code, Section 62.102):
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be a citizen of this state and a resident of this city in which you are to serve as a juror.
  • Be qualified under the Constitution and laws to vote in the county in which you are to serve as a juror. (Note: You do not have to be registered to vote to be qualified to vote.)
  • Be of sound mind and good moral character.
  • Be able to read and write.
  • Not have served as a juror for 6 days during the preceding 3 months in the county court or during the preceding 6 months in the district court.
  • Not have been convicted of, or be under indictment or other legal accusation for, misdemeanor theft or a felony.

Failure to Appear Fine

Failure to appear for jury service may result in a $100 fine for contempt.