Federal & State Lawfederalstatelaw.com
Back to Questions
civil-procedureNJ

Can I get out of jury duty in New Jersey?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

New Jersey jury service is governed by Title 2B, Chapter 20 of the New Jersey Statutes. The Jury Management Office in each county vicinage administers selection.

1. Qualifications (N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-1)

  • US citizen, age 18 or older.
  • Resident of the county.
  • Able to read and understand English.
  • Not convicted of an indictable offense punishable by more than 6 months.
  • Mentally and physically capable.

    • 2. Statutory Exemptions

  • Active members of the US Armed Forces on duty.
  • Volunteer firefighters, EMTs, and rescue squad members during emergencies.
  • Persons currently serving on another jury.

    • 3. Age-Based Excusal (N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-10)

    A juror 75 years of age or older may request a permanent excusal.

    4. Hardship Excusal

    The Assignment Judge may excuse for:

  • Serious medical condition.
  • Severe financial hardship.
  • Caregiver responsibilities for a child under 6 or dependent adult.
  • Active student status.
  • Travel difficulties (over 1.5 hours each way).

    • 5. Juror Pay (N.J.S.A. § 22A:1-1.1)

  • $5 per day for the first 3 days.
  • $40 per day from day 4 onward.
  • Mileage reimbursed at standard rate.

    • 6. Employer Rules (N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-17)

    Employers may not penalize, fire, threaten, or coerce an employee for jury service. Pay during service is not statutorily required, though many large employers pay regular wages.

    7. Penalties for Skipping

    Failure to appear is contempt of court under § 2B:20-12 — fines up to $500 and possible jail.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • You are facing a contempt charge for missing a jury duty summons
    • Your employer retaliated, demoted, or fired you for serving on a jury
    • You were denied excusal despite legitimately qualifying (age, disability, hardship)
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-1
    • N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-10
    • N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-12
    • N.J.S.A. § 2B:20-17
    • N.J.S.A. § 22A:1-1.1

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.