Do You Get Paid for Jury Duty Even If You're Not Selected?
Here's something a lot of people don't know going in: most people who report for jury duty never actually serve on a trial. They spend the day in the assembly room, maybe go through some selection, and get dismissed. And yes — they still get paid.
Yes, You Get Paid for Showing Up
Jury duty pay isn't contingent on being selected for a case. You receive the court's daily stipend for each day you report and make yourself available, period.
So if you drive to the courthouse, sit in the assembly room for 6 hours, and get dismissed without ever being called — you still earn your $15 (or $50 in federal court, or whatever your jurisdiction pays) for that day.
What Does "Dismissed" Mean?
Being dismissed from jury duty can happen at several points:
- Assembly room dismissal: Your group number isn't called. You're dismissed for the day and your obligation is typically fulfilled.
- Voir dire dismissal: You're questioned during jury selection but excused by one of the attorneys. You're paid for that day and usually dismissed.
- Cause dismissal: The judge excuses you for a specific reason (bias, conflict, hardship). Same deal — you're paid and dismissed.
Can You Be Called Back?
Usually, once you've served (or appeared and been dismissed), you won't be called for jury duty again for 1-2 years in most jurisdictions. Your summons will specify whether your obligation is fulfilled after one appearance or whether you might be called back during a longer service window.
Can You Leave Early If You're Not Selected?
Not until you're officially dismissed. Courts need to maintain available juror pools in case cases come up throughout the day. Leaving early without being dismissed is treated the same as not appearing at all — which can result in legal consequences. Wait for official dismissal.
One More Thing
If you were summoned but were never actually needed to appear (because you called in and your group wasn't required), payment policies vary. Some courts pay a small nominal amount; others only pay for days you physically attend. Check your summons or court's website for their specific policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you get paid for jury duty if you are not selected?
Yes. You receive the court's daily stipend for each day you report and make yourself available, regardless of whether you are selected for a trial or dismissed at any point in the process.
Do you get paid for jury duty if you are dismissed right away?
Yes. Even if you are dismissed from the assembly room without being called for voir dire, you are still entitled to the court's daily attendance fee for that day.
How many days do you have to serve for jury duty if not selected?
Most jurisdictions require you to be available for one day (or for the length of one trial if selected). Your summons will explain whether your obligation is complete after a single appearance or extends over multiple days.