Ontario Jury Guide

Everything you need to know about serving on a jury in Ontario, Canada

OntarioJury.com is your comprehensive, unbiased guide to Ontario’s jury system. From understanding your eligibility to requesting an excusal or calculating reimbursements, we break down each step so you can serve with clarity and confidence.

Our mission is simple: make the process transparent, answer every question, and provide practical tools that turn complex legal information into straightforward guidance.

Eligibility
Excusal Process
Calculators
FAQs

Eligibility Tool

Answer a few questions to confirm whether you qualify to serve as a juror.

Requesting Excusal

Understand legitimate reasons and official steps to postpone or be excused.

Compensation Guide

Learn what you’ll be paid, which expenses are covered, and how to claim them.

Top Questions Answered

Ignoring a legally issued jury summons in Ontario can lead to fines and, in rare cases, a court-ordered appearance. If you cannot attend, request an excusal or deferral rather than simply failing to appear.

Employers must provide unpaid leave for jury service but are not required to continue your salary. Some choose to top up voluntarily. Our employer obligations guide explains your rights and negotiation tips.

Names are drawn randomly from provincial databases, followed by in-court questioning called voir dire to ensure impartiality. Visit our selection process guide for a detailed walkthrough.

Featured Tools & Calculators

Jury Duty Compensation Calculator

Estimate daily pay, travel, and meal reimbursements in seconds with an easy to use compensation calculator.

Open Calculator

Eligibility Self-Assessment

Confirm you meet all provincial requirements before you respond to your summons.

Start Assessment

Popular Topics

Day in the Life of a Juror

Walk through a typical court day from check-in to dismissal.

Courtroom Etiquette

Dress codes, device rules, and respectful conduct simplified.

Deliberation Process

Understand how jurors weigh evidence and reach a verdict.

Penalties & Obligations

Know the legal consequences of missing or dismissing a summons.

Explore the Resource Center

Access directories, legal aid contacts, and support services designed specifically for Ontario jurors.

Courts Directory
Legal Aid
Support Services
Useful Links
Summons
Selection
Deliberation
Employer
Penalties
Glossary