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Can I get out of jury duty in Wisconsin?

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

Wisconsin jury service is governed by Wis. Stat. Chapter 756. The circuit court clerk in each county manages the jury wheel.

1. Qualifications (Wis. Stat. § 756.02)

  • US citizen, age 18 or older.
  • Resident of the county.
  • Able to understand English.
  • Not convicted of a felony (unless restored).
  • Of sound mind.

    • 2. Statutory Exemptions (§ 756.02)

  • Active members of the US Armed Forces on duty.
  • Persons who served as a juror within the last 4 years (longest in nation).

    • 3. Age-Based Excusal (§ 756.03)

    A juror 72 years of age or older may request a permanent excusal from jury duty. The request is granted upon written application.

    4. Hardship Excusal (§ 756.03)

    The court may excuse for:

  • Serious medical condition or disability.
  • Active caregiver responsibilities.
  • Extreme financial hardship.
  • Active student status.
  • Travel hardship (more than 1.5 hours each way).

    • 5. Juror Pay (§ 756.25)

  • State minimum: $16 per day plus standard mileage reimbursement.
  • Counties may pay more. Milwaukee County pays $16/day; Dane County pays $18/day plus mileage.
  • Most counties reimburse parking and tolls.

    • 6. Employer Rules (§ 756.255)

    Employers may not discharge or discipline an employee for jury service. Employer must allow leave. Wisconsin does not require employers to pay wages, but most large employers do voluntarily.

    7. Penalties for Skipping

    Failure to appear is contempt of court under § 756.30 — 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
    • Wis. Stat. § 756.02
    • Wis. Stat. § 756.03
    • Wis. Stat. § 756.25
    • Wis. Stat. § 756.255
    • Wis. Stat. § 756.30

    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.