Changes to jury eligibility criteria mean that more people will be able to serve on a jury in the Isle of Man.
On Thursday 20 November Tynwald approved the Jury Act 1980 (Amendment) Order 2025 for changes which are part of a wider effort to make the justice system fairer, more inclusive, and more representative.
The change to legislation means from 1 January 2026:
- Many exemptions from jury service are removed
- People with disabilities or mental health conditions will be included, with support available if needed
- Juries will better reflect the Island’s community
Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Jane Poole-Wilson MHK, said:
‘The changes to jury eligibility are a vital step in ensuring our justice system is fair, inclusive, and truly representative of our community. By removing outdated and restrictive exemptions, we are opening up jury service to a broader cross-section of society and strengthening public trust in our courts. I am grateful to everyone who contributed to the consultation and helped shape these important reforms.’
The last major update to jury rules was more than 40 years ago and many people have been automatically excluded from jury service because of their job or personal circumstances.
A public consultation earlier this year showed strong support for change with 86% in favour of updating the exemption list and 71% backing a fairer, case-by-case system for excusals from jury service.
From January only a small number of roles will still be automatically exempt, including:
- The Lieutenant Governor
- Crown appointments directly involved in justice (Attorney General, Solicitor General, First and Second Deemsters, Judge of Appeal)
- Members of Tynwald
- The Tynwald Auditor General and Commissioner for Administration
- Police, judiciary, and others directly administering justice
- Full time members of His Majesty’s armed forces
All other previous exemptions from jury service have been removed. Anyone not in roles automatically exempt may now be called for jury service, with the Chief Registrar able to excuse individuals on a case-by-case basis where there is a good reason to do so.
Each year, the jury list is compiled from people on the electoral register. In January 2026, a form will be sent to every household asking you to check that your details on the register are up to date and confirm whether you are eligible for jury service, based upon the new criteria.
For more information, contact the Crown and Elections Team within the Cabinet Office on +44 1624 685754 or email elections@gov.im.
