Can I get out of jury duty in Virginia?

Virginia jury service is governed by Title 8.01, Chapter 11 of the Code of Virginia. Each circuit court manages its jury pool.

1. Qualifications (Va. Code § 8.01-337)

US citizen, age 18 or older.

Resident of the Commonwealth for at least 1 year and the county or city for 6 months.

Able to read, write, and understand English.

Not convicted of treason or felony (unless rights restored).

Of sound mind.

2. Statutory Exemptions (§ 8.01-341)

Active US Armed Forces members on duty.

Members of the General Assembly during session.

Persons sentenced to incarceration.

Persons adjudicated mentally incompetent.

3. Age-Based Excusal (§ 8.01-341.1)

A juror 70 years of age or older may be excused upon request. Permanent excusal is available.

4. Hardship Excusal

A judge may excuse for medical, religious, undue financial hardship, or caregiver responsibilities. Documentation required.

5. Juror Pay (Va. Code § 17.1-618)

$50 per day for jury service, plus mileage reimbursement. Some courts pay $30 for half-day.

6. Employer Rules (Va. Code § 18.2-465.1)

It is a Class 3 misdemeanor for an employer to discharge or coerce an employee for jury duty. Employers may not require the use of personal leave, vacation, or sick time for jury service. Wage payment is not statutorily mandated.

7. Penalties for Skipping

Failure to appear is contempt of court under § 8.01-356 — fines up to $200 and possible jail.

This is legal information, not legal advice.