Can I get out of jury duty in Alabama?

Alabama jury service is governed by Ala. Code §§ 12-16-1 through 12-16-237. The circuit clerk in each county manages the jury wheel.

1. Qualifications (Ala. Code § 12-16-60)

Alabama uniquely requires:

US citizen, age 19 or older (Alabama uses 19, not 18, as age of majority).

Resident of the county for at least 12 months.

Able to read, speak, and understand English.

Of sound mind.

Not convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude.

2. Statutory Exemptions

Active members of the US Armed Forces on duty.

Persons over 75 years old on request.

Convicted felons.

3. Age-Based Excusal (§ 12-16-63(b))

A juror 75 years of age or older may be permanently excused upon request — no medical proof required.

4. Hardship Excusal (§ 12-16-63)

The court may excuse for:

Severe medical condition.

Sole caregiver of a dependent under 14 or disabled adult.

Extreme financial hardship.

Active student status.

5. Juror Pay (§ 12-16-8)

The court pays $10 per day (one of the lowest nominal rates).

Employers must pay full-time employees their regular wages during jury service (less the $10 court fee). This shifts the pay burden to employers.

6. Employer Rules (§ 12-16-8.1)

Employers may not discharge or threaten an employee for jury service. Violations create a civil cause of action. Full-time employees are entitled to regular wages.

7. Penalties for Skipping

Failure to appear is contempt of court under § 12-16-201 — fines up to $100 and possible 3 days in jail.

This is legal information, not legal advice.