Exemption from jury duty

The Jury Act allows potential jurors to request an exemption from jury service based on certain circumstances. Exemptions are either granted or denied at the sheriffs’ discretion. Please note: Requesting an exemption does not mean you are exempt.

The Jury Act provides examples of potential grounds for exemption such as: over age 65, hardship, religion, and language barriers. However, individuals may request an exemption for any number of reasons. When applying for an exemption, provide detail and proof with the request so sheriffs can make an informed decision on whether to grant/deny the request.

Request an exemption

If you receive a jury summons and have a significant reason to request an exemption, you can do so using one of the following methods:

• Online: Using the Court Services eResponse website. You will need to have your jury summons on hand to complete your online response. Supporting documentation for your request should be sent via email.
• By mail: Complete the jury certification form attached to your jury summons and mail it using the envelope provided.

Find out if an exemption was granted

Individuals 65+ who request to be exempt from jury duty will be automatically exempt. There is no sheriff discretion involved and you do not need to wait for a response from sheriffs – you are exempt.

Other exemption requests are either granted or denied at the sheriffs’ discretion. Requesting an exemption does not mean you are exempt. The BC Sheriff Service will review your request and make a decision. Keep your summons until you hear from the sheriffs to learn if your request was granted or denied.

If you responded to your summons in writing, sheriffs will make every reasonable effort to contact you within 10 working days from the date your request for exemption is received. If you responded to your summons through the eResponse website, sheriffs will attempt to contact you via your stated contact method. You can also log-in anytime and view the status of your request under the “profile” tab.

If you do not receive notice that you are exempt, you must attend jury selection on the date and time indicated on your summons.

If you are granted an exemption, you are not required to serve as a juror and do not need to attend jury selection.

If your exemption is denied

If your exemption request is denied by sheriffs, you must attend jury selection on the date and time indicated on the summons.

At the jury selection hearing you will have an opportunity to ask the judge for an exemption. See the jury selection section for more information on how to do so. Depending on the reason for your request, the judge will decide whether to grant or deny your request.