Can I get out of jury duty in Massachusetts?

Question

Accepted Answer

Massachusetts has a uniquely juror-friendly system. Jury service is governed by G.L. c. 234A. The Office of Jury Commissioner administers a statewide jury pool.

1. Qualifications (c. 234A § 4)

US citizen, age 17 or older (Massachusetts uniquely allows 17-year-olds).

Inhabitant of the Commonwealth for at least 50% of the year.

Able to speak and understand English.

Not convicted of a felony within the past 7 years (c. 234A § 4).

Not currently incarcerated.

2. Statutory Exemptions

Active US Armed Forces members.

Persons currently serving on another jury.

Recent jurors (within 3 years for state court).

3. Age-Based Excusal (c. 234A § 39)

Any prospective juror 70 years of age or older may be permanently excused upon request. No documentation required.

4. Hardship Excusal (c. 234A § 39)

A judge may excuse for severe medical, financial, or personal hardship — documentation required.

5. Juror Pay — Most Generous in the US (c. 234A § 48)

Days 1–3: Employer pays regular wages (mandatory for all employers, including small businesses).

Day 4 onward: Commonwealth pays $50 per day.

This makes Massachusetts one of the few states where private employers must pay during jury service.

6. Employer Rules (c. 234A § 61)

Employers may not threaten, fire, or coerce an employee for jury service. Violations are misdemeanors and create a civil cause of action with potential triple damages.

7. Penalties for Skipping

Failure to appear is criminal contempt with fines up to $2,000 and possible jail under c. 234A § 64.

This is legal information, not legal advice.