Welcome to the frequently-asked questions page for prospective jurors. Please click on the applicable questions from the list below.
- I’ve received a jury summons. What should I do?
- What happens if I ignore the summons?
- Where is the courthouse and what do I do when I arrive?
- What happens if I don't want to serve or have a conflict?
- Will I be paid and/or receive mileage to serve?
- Will I receive meals while serving?
- Who is eligible to serve on a jury?
- What kind of cases may I hear as a juror?
I’ve received a jury summons, what should I do?
You should respond to the summons via mail or the online response system available here: https://jury.york-county.org.
What happens if I ignore the summons?
It is advised that you DO NOT ignore your summons. If you do, you may be subject to prosecution.
Where is the courthouse and what do I do when I arrive?
Please visit our directions and parking information here for more information about how to get to the Judicial Center, located at 45 N. George St. in York City. For information about what to do when you arrive, please click here.
What happens if I don’t want to serve or have a conflict?
Deferrals are available for jurors that will experience a severe hardship because of jury duty. Jury duty is an obligation required by law, and is not voluntary. Most people enjoy the experience. For more information about deferrals, please click here.
Will I be paid and/or receive travel mileage to serve?
Jurors are paid $9 each day for the first three days of service. Starting on the fourth day, jurors are paid $25 per day. You are also eligible for mileage at a rate of 17 cents per mile. For more information about compensation, please click here. Compensation is set by the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
Will I receive meals while serving?
Jurors typically are not provided meals, but at lunchtime are given ample time to purchase food outside the courthouse or eat a meal brought from home. There are also vending machines on the first floor of the Judicial Center.
Who is eligible to serve on a jury?
All U.S. citizens age 18 or older who live in York County are qualified to serve as jurors, with the exception of:
- Individuals unable to speak and/or understand the English language
- Individuals because of mental or physical conditions are unable to render efficient service
- Individuals convicted of a crime and sentenced to more than one year of incarceration who has not been granted a pardon or amnesty.
What kind of cases might I hear as a juror?
Jurors will hear criminal and civil cases.
In criminal cases, the District Attorney or Attorney General prosecutes a case against an individual accused of a crime.
In civil cases, the parties are individuals, businesses or government agencies. The party initiating the lawsuit is the Plaintiff and the party defending the lawsuit is the Defendant. The Plaintiff is generally seeking monetary damages.