Jury Duty Pay in New Hampshire

About Jury Duty in New Hampshire

New Hampshire pays jurors $20 per full day of service ($10 per half-day). Pending legislation HB 1592 (2026 session) would increase juror compensation to the federal rate of $50/day effective January 1, 2027. The state’s “Live Free or Die” ethos translates into strong individual protections against employer retaliation.

How Jury Pay Works

Under RSA 500-A:15, jurors receive $20 for a full day and $10 for a half-day. Mileage is reimbursed at $0.20/mile, but only if the juror must travel outside their town or city of residence. New Hampshire is a “one day or one trial” state. There is no employer mandate to pay wages, but the state’s anti-retaliation protections are robust — employers who retaliate face potential treble damages and attorney’s fees.

The “Live Free or Die” Approach

New Hampshire’s approach to jury service reflects its broader political culture: moderate state spending on juror compensation, combined with strong individual protections. Employers who retaliate against jurors face potentially severe consequences. The state’s small size and tight-knit legal community mean these protections have real teeth.

The pending HB 1592 (2026) would raise the rate to the federal level of $50/day. The fiscal note estimates $740,000+ in increased annual expenditures. If passed, it would take effect January 1, 2027.

Compact Geography

New Hampshire’s small size (9,349 square miles) is a practical advantage. Most residents live within 45 minutes of their county courthouse, and even the most remote juror in Coos County is rarely more than 90 minutes from the courthouse in Lancaster. This compactness is shared with Rhode Island.

How New Hampshire Compares

New Hampshire’s $20/day is above the bottom tier but below the national median. Neighboring Massachusetts pays $50/day with employer-paid leave — a 2.5× difference across the border. Maine pays $15/day. Federal jurors in New Hampshire’s single district receive $50/day. The potential HB 1592 increase to $50 would put New Hampshire on par with Massachusetts and federal rates.

Statute: N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 500-A:15 — Official source