⚡ California Jury Duty Pay — Quick Facts
If you've received a jury summons in California, you're probably wondering: how much will I actually get paid? The answer depends on which day of service you're on, how far you travel, and whether your employer voluntarily pays your salary.
This guide covers everything California jurors need to know about compensation in 2025 — from the court's daily fee schedule to mileage reimbursement, parking, and what to do when your employer won't pay.
✅ Quick Answer: California pays $15/day starting on Day 2. Day 1 is unpaid. Mileage is reimbursed at $0.34 per mile (one-way). Employers are not legally required to pay, but many large CA companies do so voluntarily.
California Jury Duty Pay Schedule
California's jury compensation is set by the California Rules of Court. Here's how the pay breaks down by day:
| Day of Service | Court Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | $0 (Unpaid) | First day court does not pay |
| Day 2 onward | $15/day | Standard California rate |
| Extended service | $15/day | Rate stays flat (no escalation) |
| Federal court (CA) | $50/day | Separate from state court |
⚠️ Important: If you are summoned but not selected as a juror and are dismissed on Day 1, you will receive no pay from the California court. However, some employers will still count this as a paid jury duty day — check your employee handbook.
Mileage Reimbursement in California
California courts provide mileage reimbursement to jurors who drive to the courthouse. The current rate is $0.34 per mile, calculated as a one-way distance from your home to the courthouse.
- Reimbursement is for one-way distance, not round trip
- You must log your mileage and submit it to the jury clerk
- Parking: Some courthouses validate parking. Check with your specific courthouse
- Public transit costs are not separately reimbursed in most CA courts
Example Calculation
If you live 15 miles from the courthouse and serve for 5 days:
- Court pay: Day 1 = $0, Days 2–5 = $15 × 4 = $60
- Mileage: 15 miles × $0.34 × 5 days = $25.50
- Total court compensation: $85.50
Does Your Employer Have to Pay You?
This is the most common question California jurors ask — and the answer is no, California does not require employers to pay wages during jury duty.
Under California Labor Code Section 230, your employer must:
- ✅ Allow you to take time off for jury duty (cannot deny the leave)
- ✅ Protect your job (cannot fire or demote you for serving)
- ❌ NOT required to pay your salary during the period
💡 Pro Tip: Many large California employers — especially tech companies, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies — voluntarily provide full pay during jury duty as a standard HR benefit. Always check your employee handbook or ask HR before assuming you won't be paid.
Your Legal Rights as a California Juror
California has strong anti-retaliation protections under Labor Code §230:
- Your employer cannot fire you for serving jury duty
- Your employer cannot threaten, demote, or penalize you
- You are entitled to return to your job after service ends
- Benefits (health insurance, PTO accrual) continue during service
- If retaliated against, you can file a complaint with the DLSE or sue in civil court
Can You Get Excused from Jury Duty in California?
California allows jurors to request a postponement or hardship exemption. Valid reasons include:
- Extreme financial hardship (especially for self-employed individuals)
- Primary caregiver with no alternative childcare arrangements
- Medical conditions verified by a doctor's note
- Pre-booked, non-refundable travel within 90 days
You can request postponement online at juror.courts.ca.gov. Most California courts allow one postponement with no questions asked.
Is California Jury Duty Pay Taxable?
Yes. Jury duty pay from California courts is taxable ordinary income and must be reported on both your federal (Form 1040) and California state tax returns.
However: if your employer requires you to remit your jury pay to them (because they are paying your full salary), you can deduct the amount remitted from your federal taxable income.
📋 Tip: The court will issue a 1099-G or similar document if your total jury pay exceeds $600. Keep all payment receipts from the courthouse for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions — California Jury Duty
What if I'm self-employed and called for jury duty in California?
Self-employed Californians receive only the standard $15/day court stipend. There's no employer to supplement this. California courts may be receptive to a documented financial hardship exemption request. Be prepared to show proof of lost business income.
Does California require grand jury pay?
Grand jurors in California receive the same $15/day starting day 2. However, grand jury service can last up to 12 months, which can create significant financial strain. California grand jurors may be eligible for longer-term hardship considerations.
Where do I report for jury duty in California?
Your summons will specify the courthouse. Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento each have separate superior court systems with different local procedures. Always confirm your reporting location on your summons.
Calculate Your California Jury Duty Pay
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