A British juror who sent a judge a note saying he had just learned via text message that he was a father got an early dismissal.

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"Congratulations," Judge David Pitman told the flustered father. "Of course, I overlook you breaching rules banning jurors from having mobile phones. It's unfair to expect you to continue sitting when your mind is on little bootees and things. So I'm going to discharge you."

Pitman, presiding in Snarebrook Crown Court in East London, told the Daily Mirror he has never previously granted paternity leave to a juror.

The juror apologized for using his cell phone during the trial, but the judge told him his behavior was understandable under the circumstances.