Employer Information

Why Compensate?

Jury service is an investment in America, in your employees, and in your business.

 

State law does not require employers to compensate employees who are absent because of jury service. Many employers do, however, have jury-leave policies that provide compensation to employees for the time they are needed at court for jury service.

 

An Investment in America
Many prospective jurors cite a loss of pay as a legitimate reason for not serving on a jury.

 

Yet juries play an important and crucial role in our country's democratic process. Without them, our legal system would grind to a halt. Your help is essential in ensuring that all citizens are available to serve on juries when called. One of the ways you can help is to consider compensating your employees during jury service if you don't already.

 

An Investment in Your Employees
Lack of compensation for jury service—a fundamental civic duty—places a financial burden on many employees. Paying your staff during their service boosts morale as they recognize that their employer values their civic service. Offering paid jury service is a values statement about your company and may differentiate your business in offering a competitive employment package.

 

An Investment in Your Business
Businesses benefit from the jury system. Cases dealing with contracts, environmental issues, product defects, malpractice, intellectual fraud, and wrongful termination are brought by or against business in civil courts. Wouldn't you want people like yourself and your employees deciding these cases?

 

Please weigh all these factors when considering your company's jury service compensation policy. It's another way to show your support for American ideals, for your community, and for your employees.

 

What it Costs: Try thinking about it this way: If employee John makes $35,000 per year, the cost of providing compensation for jury service compared to other benefits is quite small.

Benefit: Total Annual Cost:
14 vacation days $1,900
10 sick days $1,350
8 paid holidays $1,100
Vision, dental & medial insurance    $3,600
Tuition reimbursement $1,900
Jury Service: Total Annual Cost:
1-day jury service or 7-day trial $135-$945

More Questions about your Jury Service?

Questions about your or an employee's jury service, including ability to serve, should be directed to the local court that summoned you or your employee.