⚡ Harris County Pay — Quick Facts (2026)
If you've been summoned to downtown Houston for jury service in Harris County, you're looking at one of the busiest courthouse systems in the country. Fortunately, Harris County pays well above the Texas state minimum. Instead of the standard starting pay, Houston jurors receive a much better deal to help cover their time and travel.
Below is a practical, step-by-step reporting guide designed to help you get downtown, get paid, and know your rights without getting lost in the system.
Harris County operates under a tiered pay structure. You are paid $30 for the first day, regardless of whether you are actually chosen to serve on a jury panel. If you are selected for a trial, your pay automatically increases to $58 per day starting on Day 2.
This is paid directly by the county via a preloaded debit card or check at the end of your service. Many jurors choose to donate their daily stipend to local county-approved charities, which you can opt to do during your morning check-in.
Houston parking can be a nightmare, but the county provides designated free parking for summoned jurors. You must park at the 1401 Congress Street Garage. Show your summons to the parking attendant upon entry to secure free parking for the day.
Avoid parking in private commercial surface lots or street meters. The court will not validate or refund parking tickets from other facilities, and Houston's parking enforcement is notoriously quick to tow.
You will report to the underground Harris County Jury Assembly Plaza located at 1019 Congress Street. It features Wi-Fi, work desks, and charging stations. Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled summons time to clear security. Wear business casual clothing and bring a jacket, as the assembly room AC is kept quite cold.
Texas state law requires all employers to give you job-protected time off for jury duty, meaning they cannot fire or penalize you. However, there is no Texas law requiring them to pay you while you serve. Fortunately, many of Houston's major oil & gas, medical center, and aerospace employers voluntarily provide full wage replacement. Check your employee handbook before you report.
If your summons date conflicts with work, travel, or medical plans, Harris County allows you to reschedule online. You can request your first postponement online through the District Clerk portal. This allows you to delay your service for up to 90 days to a more convenient date.
How to request an excuse in Houston
Exemptions are granted for caregivers of young children under 12, full-time students, active military, and senior citizens over 75. If you do not fit these categories but face an extreme financial hardship (e.g. self-employed with no income during service), you must speak directly with the jury commissioner on the morning of your arrival. Bring recent tax forms or pay stubs as evidence of potential hardship.