If you live in Berks County and received a summons to report to the courthouse in Reading, you probably have some immediate questions about how this affects your wallet.
Like the rest of Pennsylvania, Berks County adheres to the state-mandated juror compensation rates. For the first three days of your service, you will receive just $9 a day. From the fourth day onward, it bumps up to $25 a day.
Berks County does offer a mileage reimbursement of 17 cents per mile from your home to the courthouse. While this doesn't fully cover the cost of gas and wear-and-tear in 2026, it helps soften the blow. Fortunately, parking in Reading is generally more manageable and cheaper than in Philly or Pittsburgh, and the court often provides specific parking instructions with your summons.
If you work for a local small business, there's a strong chance they won't pay you while you serve, as PA law does not require them to. If serving would cause you 'extreme financial hardship' (meaning you wouldn't be able to pay rent or buy food), you can fill out the questionnaire included with your summons and request an excuse. You must provide specific financial details—don't just say 'I need to work.'
Berks County pays the PA state minimum of $9/day. If your employer doesn't cover your wages and you cannot afford to serve, immediately file for a financial hardship exemption using the instructions on your summons.