Can I get out of jury duty in Indiana?

Indiana jury service is governed by Ind. Code §§ 33-28-5-1 through 33-28-6-9. The circuit court of each county runs jury management.

1. Qualifications (Ind. Code § 33-28-5-18)

US citizen, age 18 or older.

Resident of the county.

Able to read, write, and understand English.

Of sound mind.

Not convicted of a felony with rights not restored.

2. Statutory Exemptions

Active members of the US Armed Forces on duty.

Convicted felons.

3. Age-Based Excusal

A juror 75 years of age or older may be excused upon request under local court rules. Some Indiana counties permit excusal at age 65.

4. Hardship Excusal (Ind. Code § 33-28-5-19)

The jury commissioner may excuse for:

Serious medical condition.

Sole caregiver of a dependent (child under 12 or disabled adult).

Extreme financial hardship.

Recent prior jury service (within 24 months).

5. Juror Pay (Ind. Code § 33-37-10-1)

$15 per day for the first 5 days.

$40 per day from day 6 onward.

Mileage at state employee rate.

6. Employer Rules (Ind. Code § 35-44.1-2-11)

It is a Class B misdemeanor for an employer to discharge, threaten, or otherwise penalize an employee for jury service. Employers may not require the use of vacation, sick, or personal leave. Wage payment is not statutorily mandated.

7. Penalties for Skipping

Failure to appear is contempt of court with fines up to $500 and possible jail under Ind. Code § 34-47-3-1.

This is legal information, not legal advice.