All 50 states + federal courts Updated for 2026
Jury Duty Guide
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About Jury Duty Guide

A clear, accurate resource for jury duty pay and employer requirements across all 50 states and the federal courts.

How this information was compiled

This guide to jury duty pay and employer requirements was built from research across all 50 states and the federal jury system. Each entry is drawn from primary sources and reviewed before it goes live.

The data is sourced from:

  • Official state court websites
  • State statutes and legal codes
  • Federal court and U.S. Courts publications
  • Government materials about jury service

Each state page shows when its information was last verified, and the whole guide is reviewed annually so the numbers and statutes stay current.

Why this matters

Jury duty is a basic civic responsibility, but it can create real financial strain. Knowing your rights and what you will be paid helps you plan ahead.

  • Plan for any gap in income while you serve
  • Know your job is protected from retaliation
  • Understand which expenses may be reimbursed
  • Show up prepared for civic service

The goal is simple: make this information easy to find and easy to understand, so anyone called to serve knows both their obligations and their rights.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Can my employer fire me for serving on a jury?
No. Every state and federal law prohibits employers from terminating employees for jury service. These job protection laws make it illegal to fire, threaten, intimidate, or coerce employees because of jury duty.
Does my employer have to pay me while I am on jury duty?
It depends on your state. Only a small number of states require employers to provide paid time off for jury duty. In most states, employer payment during jury service is voluntary, though many employers choose to provide this benefit.
How much will I get paid for jury duty?
Compensation varies widely by state, ranging from as little as $6 per day to $50 or more. Many states also increase the daily rate for longer trials. Some courts also reimburse for mileage, parking, and other expenses.
What happens if I ignore a jury duty summons?
Ignoring a jury summons can result in serious consequences including fines (typically $100 to $1,000), contempt of court charges, and in rare cases arrest warrants. Courts generally prefer to work with jurors on scheduling rather than impose penalties.
Can I postpone my jury service?
Yes, most courts allow you to postpone or reschedule your jury service at least once. The process typically involves submitting a request through the court website or contacting the jury coordinator office. Each jurisdiction has different rules about how far in advance you must request a postponement.