Whether employers are legally mandated to compensate employees serving on a jury varies significantly based on jurisdiction. Federal law does not require private employers to pay employees for jury service. State laws governing this issue differ; some states require payment for a certain number of days, while others do not impose any such obligation. Many employers, regardless of legal mandate, have policies addressing compensation during jury duty. These policies can range from full salary continuation to unpaid leave.
The issue of compensation during civic duties is relevant to workforce participation and the administration of justice. Requiring individuals to serve on juries is a fundamental aspect of the legal system. However, the financial burden of missed work can deter some from fulfilling this civic responsibility, potentially leading to less representative jury pools. Historically, laws related to jury compensation have been enacted to alleviate this burden and ensure broader participation.
