Jury Duty Pay in West Virginia

About Jury Duty in West Virginia

West Virginia juror pay ranges from $15 to $40 per day at the discretion of the circuit court or chief judge under W. Va. Code § 52-1-17. The $15 minimum is among the lower floors in the country, but courts have the authority to pay more. Two bills (HB 2197 in 2023 and HB 4558 in 2024) to raise the rate to $80/day did not pass.

How Jury Pay Works

Each circuit court or chief judge sets the daily rate within the $15–$40 statutory range. Mileage reimbursement typically follows the federal GSA rate. The state’s mountainous terrain means some jurors navigate winding roads for 90+ minutes to reach the courthouse. West Virginia has 55 counties, many with populations under 20,000.

Mountain State Logistics

West Virginia’s topography creates jury logistics unlike any flatland state. A juror in a rural county like Pocahontas or Pendleton may spend two hours driving mountain roads to reach the circuit court. The $15 minimum — unchanged despite multiple legislative attempts — is particularly challenging given the travel burden.

Employer Obligations

West Virginia employers are not required to pay wages during jury service but cannot penalize employees. The state’s economy — dominated by healthcare, education, energy extraction, and tourism — means employer practices vary widely.

How West Virginia Compares

West Virginia’s $15–$40 range is below the national median. Neighboring Virginia pays $50/day flat and Pennsylvania pays $9/$25. Federal jurors in West Virginia’s two districts receive $50/day.

Statute: W. Va. Code § 52-1-17 — Official source