At what age can you get out of jury duty in NC? Age requirements to serve

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A jury summons in the mailbox can spark a moment of excitement and civic pride. Or a groan in frustration at the unexpected disruption.

But there are exceptions to jury duty, with many states offering carve-outs once people reach a certain age, according to the AARP.

“As more states enact age exemptions for jury duty, the reasons given for the policies generally describe it as a convenience for older people who may no longer be interested or physically comfortable sitting on a jury,” the AARP says.

Yes, jury duty is mandatory for most people once they’ve been summoned.

“Jury service is the solemn obligation of all qualified citizens, and that excuses from the discharge of this responsibility should be granted only for reasons of compelling personal hardship or because requiring service would be contrary to the public welfare, health, or safety,” according to state statutes.

More than 40 states have jury duty exemptions based on ages, according to the AARP.

In North Carolina, if you are 72 years old or older you can ask to be excused, deferred or exempted for jury duty.

In general, follow the instructions on the jury summons for your specific courthouse to request to be excused or exempted. That exemption can be made in advance without appearing in person by filling out the correct form.

“At any age, if you have a disability that prevents proper service, you can request to be excused as well,” Carl Nagle, a Winston-Salem attorney with Nagle & Associates, previously told The Charlotte Observer. “Thus, for a person on dialysis who might be in their 50s or 60s, their personal health needs allow them to avoid serving.”

Counties are required to keep a “master jury list” of licensed drivers and/or registered voters, and names are drawn at random. A jury summons is mailed to the person selected for jury duty.

There is no maximum age to serve on a jury. Qualified jurors must be:

Jurors also can’t be a convicted felon, unless their citizenship rights have been restored, haven’t served on a jury for the last two years or served a full term as a grand juror in the last six years.

People who serve on jury duty do get paid by a pre-paid debit card or a check in the mail.

Trial jurors get $12 on the first day and $20 for days two through five and $40 per day if you serve more than five days. Grand jurors receive $20 a day.

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This story was originally published July 10, 2026 at 11:51 AM with the headline “At what age can you get out of jury duty in NC? Age requirements to serve.”