Can I get out of jury duty in Texas?

Texas jury service is governed by Government Code Chapter 62. Most counties use a centralized jury wheel pulling from voter rolls and DPS records.

1. Qualifications (Gov. Code § 62.102)

US citizen, age 18 or older.

Resident of Texas and of the county that summoned you.

Qualified to vote in the county.

Of sound mind and good moral character.

Able to read and write English.

Not convicted of a felony or theft (unless rights restored).

2. Statutory Exemptions (Gov. Code § 62.106)

You may claim exemption — service is not mandatory if you are:

Over 70 years of age.

Sole caretaker of a child under 12 with no alternate supervision.

A student at a public or private secondary school or university enrolled and actually attending.

An officer or employee of the Senate or House during session.

Caretaker of an invalid unable to care for themselves.

Active member of the military deployed outside the county.

3. Hardship Excusals

A judge may excuse for medical, religious, or extreme financial reasons. Documentation strengthens the request.

4. Juror Pay (Gov. Code § 61.001)

First day: minimum $20 (counties may pay more).

Each additional day: minimum $58.

5. Employer Rules

Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 122.001 makes it unlawful to discharge, threaten, or penalize an employee for serving. Texas does not require employers to pay wages while you serve.

6. Penalties for Skipping

Failure to appear can result in contempt of court with fines from $100 to $1,000 under Gov. Code § 62.0141.

This is legal information, not legal advice.