About Oregon Jury Service

About Oregon Jury Service

The right to have a trial with a jury is an important part of American democracy and Oregon's court system. Juries:

• Help make trials fairer;
• Let regular people take part in the justice system; and
• Help everyone understand how our government works.
  

Most Americans (about 84 out of 100) think jury trials help make sure the law is followed and that the justice system does what the Constitution says it should.

Unfortunately, fewer people in Oregon are participating in jury service than in the past. More people each year are asking to be excused from serving on a jury or not responding at all. 

Many people say they cannot serve on juries because of problems related to money. People often ask if they can be excused because they can't afford to miss work, or they can't afford childcare. This also affects who ends up serving on juries. 

Oregon and many states pay jurors. Currently:

• Oregon circuit courts pay jurors $10 per day for two days.
• If jurors have to serve three or more days, they get paid $25 for each of those extra days.
• Jurors also can ask for money to help pay for traveling to the courthouse. 

More Information

Senate Bill 1175, which created the task force in 2025