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    Jury Duty for Seniors

    Rights, exemptions, what to expect.

    Senior exemptions (varies)

    • Some states auto-exempt over 65 OR 70.
    • Some states require request — often easy.
    • Medical exemption — doctor's note.
    • Hardship — caregiver, distance, etc.
    • Check your state — search "[your state] jury exemption seniors".

    Online tools

    • Most courts now have online check-in (eJuror).
    • Some let you reschedule online.
    • Court websites have "Am I needed?" status update night before.
    • Don't need to drive in for nothing.

    What to bring

    • Jury summons.
    • Photo ID.
    • Book or tablet (lots of waiting).
    • Snack + water bottle.
    • Sweater (courthouses cold).
    • Medications + reading glasses.
    • Comfortable shoes.
    • Cash for parking + lunch.

    Beware jury duty scam

    Common scam: caller claims you missed jury duty + arrest warrant unless you pay fine NOW via gift card / wire. ALWAYS scam. Real courts NEVER call demanding money. Hang up. See /tools/irs-scam-playbook.

    If you serve

    • Daily pay: $5-50 + mileage (varies wildly by state).
    • Federal jury: $50/day.
    • Most cases settle / dismiss before jury panel called.
    • If selected — typically 1-5 days.
    • Long trials rare — judge will ask if hardship.
    • Some find jury duty meaningful — civic + interesting.

    Volunteer-only juries (rare)

    A few federal districts experiment with volunteer juries. If you want to serve as a senior — call court clerk, ask about volunteer programs. Some appreciate retired professionals.