Want to postpone jury service b/c of breastfeeding, but not eligible for postponement?

Question

I received a jury summons at my parent's address in a different county back in August when I was 9 months pregnant (I used to use the address for mail). I called to let them know. I have since received another notice here in my county for today. I called last week to inquire about postponing because I am breastfeeding, and the rep said to return the form with that info and that it would be fine, even if they receive the form late. However, when I went online, it shows that I am ineligible because, I assume, the previous time (the rep did not have my case in front of her). If I follow the rep's instructions, will I be considered as "failure to appear", or do I have the right as a breastfeeding mother to submit my postponement in writing regardless? I didn't inform my work as I didn't expect to go. I understand this is serious and should be taken care of early on and that I'm not on top of it, so there's no need to remind me; I've heard enough from my husband already. I reside in CA.

Answer 1

Fill in the form, if you have a friend or relative who is a notary, get it notarized just to look good.  No one gets in trouble for responding a little late.  If they insist you appear, take the baby with you.  You'll be sent home very quickly.

Answer 2

I had a form to fill out where I gave my explanation as to why I couldn't serve.  I made sure to make it very clear that if they wanted me to come, I would.  But I would be bringing a colicky infant who needed to be nursed regularly.  I was a nursing mom & that was most important, not them.

That being said, I felt guilty & now serve as a volunteer elections official for my polling precinct.  LOL!

:)

Answer 3

She did say "...fill the form and return it, even if we receive it late."  Just send it back, and forget about it.  In spite of what the form says, that you're subject to be charged a misdemeanor for failure to appear, I've never heard of anyone being prosecuted for not returning the form.  Mail does get lost by USPS sometimes.  Unless you signed for it, and it was sent via "registered mail" with return receipt, they really have no proof that you even received the summons in the first place.