# Jury Duty, Step by Step

> Interactive walkthrough of jury service: summons to verdict, federal juror pay, and employment protections.

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## Frequently asked questions
### How much do jurors get paid?

Federal jurors receive $50 per day of attendance, rising to $60 per day after the tenth day of a trial, plus mileage reimbursement. State courts pay less, typically $5 to $30 a day, and some start paying only after the second or third day.

### Can my employer fire me for jury duty?

No. Federal law bars employers from firing, threatening, or punishing permanent employees for federal jury service, with penalties up to $5,000 per violation. Most states have similar protections for state-court service.

### What happens if I ignore a jury summons?

You can face fines or contempt of court charges. If you cannot serve, request a deferral or excusal through the court instead of ignoring it.

### How are jurors selected?

Names come from voter registration and DMV records. The judge and lawyers question the pool in voir dire to seat an impartial jury. Most people summoned never sit on a jury.

### How long does jury service last?

Many courts use a one day or one trial system: if you are not seated by day's end, you are done. Trials themselves average one to three days.

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