Request for an exemption from Jury service

We often receive requests from patients to be excused from Jury service and we feel it is important that our patients understand the process that happens when these requests arise.

First of all, issuing an exemption letter does not form part of our NHS contractual obligation. This means it is at the discretion of each individual GP as to whether or not a letter can be issued.
If a GP does choose to issue an exemption letter, this is a legal document that binds that GP to the court. The GP can then be summoned by the court to swear under oath that the patient is not able to attend court. Should the court disagree with the GP’s opinion, then that GP may be found to be in contempt of court. This has significant personal implications for the GP involved.

The court is able to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ which will allow most patients who are concerned about how they would manage to successfully participate in Jury service.
Due to the potential consequences for the GP, they must be certain that there are no circumstances under which the patient would be able to attend for Jury service, before issuing any letter.

This means that GPs will only issue letters for patients in exceptional circumstances. Examples include patients who are housebound with a terminal illness or patients who are admitted to the hospital on the date the jury is due to sit.

If you think you should be exempt from Jury service and require a letter, please speak to the reception team. They will ask you to complete a form to give information to the GP about your circumstances. This will allow the GP to decide whether they are able to issue a letter for you.

Yours sincerely,
Talybont Surgery