New Mexico law lets seniors 75 and older skip jury duty
New Mexicans 75 and older can now ask to skip jury duty without filing a sworn statement, under a state law that took effect June 18. The change lets qualifying seniors request an excuse online through the state court system’s jury website or by calling their local court.
Previously, people 75 and older who wanted to be permanently excused had to submit an affidavit, a sworn and notarized statement, to be released from service.
The statewide computer system courts use for jury management can automatically verify a person’s date of birth. The system is updated twice a year from income tax, voter registration and driving records.
About 7%, or 153,000, New Mexico residents are 75 or older, according to the Census Bureau. A senior can only seek the exemption after receiving a jury summons, and anyone 75 or older who wants to serve is still allowed to do so.
