Employees summoned for jury service often wonder about compensation during their absence. While employers are generally not required under federal law to compensate employees for time spent fulfilling this civic duty, laws vary by state and some jurisdictions mandate some level of pay, or offer tax credits to offset the cost of providing paid leave. Additionally, some employers voluntarily offer paid time off for jury duty as part of their benefits package. For instance, an employee may receive their regular salary while serving on a jury, either entirely covered by the employer or supplemented by court fees. This situation can differ significantly from an employee taking unpaid leave, potentially mitigating financial hardship.
Providing or supplementing income for employees performing jury service is crucial for several reasons. It ensures individuals can fulfill their civic obligations without financial strain, promoting a representative and engaged citizenry. Further, it removes a potential barrier to jury participation, particularly for low-wage workers. Historically, accessibility to justice has been a key concern, and ensuring individuals are not penalized financially for participating in the judicial process is a fundamental aspect of a fair and equitable system. Policies that support jury participation strengthen the justice system itself by promoting diverse and representative juries.