Do people ever really get arrested for ignoring jury duty?

Question

people keep telling me to not do it if i don't want to, saying that they always ignored and nothing happened

Answer 1

Oh yes they do.  And the penalties can be unpleasant indeed.  Don't listen to others who say don't go if you're called - unless they're willing to sit in jail in your place!

Answer 2

They can be hauled over the coals for it, certainly.

Or they can become very close to it, like this woman who was let off due to lack of evidence for allegedly playing an Ipod during a trial.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6949532.st...

Answer 3

Oh yes they do.  By making an example of you and giving it as much publicity as they can, it intimidates others into answering the summons. Large fines on top of jail time have been levied.

Answer 4

Yes, they can be and often are arrested.  The sentence is usually a fine and court costs, but there are consequences to ignoring jury duty and anyone saying they have gotten away with it has likely never been called.