Jury Duty Leave
Leave for employees summoned to serve on a jury
What is Jury Duty Leave?
Jury duty leave provides time off for employees who are summoned to serve on a jury or appear as a witness in court. All states require employers to allow employees time off for jury duty, but requirements for pay during jury service vary.
Federal Requirements
Federal law (Jury System Improvements Act) prohibits employers from firing employees for jury service. No requirement for paid leave.
State-by-State Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- •Employee must be summoned for jury duty
- •Employee must provide notice and summons to employer
- •Some states have notice requirements (24-48 hours)
Employer Obligations
- ⚠️Allow time off for jury service
- ⚠️Cannot terminate or penalize employees for jury duty
- ⚠️Follow state pay requirements (if any)
- ⚠️Cannot require employees to use vacation/PTO in most states
- ⚠️Reinstate employee after jury service
Employee Rights
- ✓Time off for jury duty
- ✓Protection from termination or retaliation
- ✓Cannot be required to work night shift before morning jury duty in some states
- ✓Juror fees from the court (typically $10-50/day)
- ✓Right to return to same position after service
Best Practices for Employers
- 💡Provide full pay during jury duty regardless of state requirement
- 💡Allow employees to keep court-paid juror fees
- 💡Don't pressure employees to request postponement
- 💡Maintain flexibility for uncertain trial length
- 💡Have coverage plans for extended service
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be fired for jury duty?
No. Federal and state laws protect employees from termination or retaliation for jury service.
Do I get paid for jury duty?
It depends on your state and employer. Some states require employers to pay employees during jury service; many do not. Many employers voluntarily provide paid jury duty leave.
Can my employer make me use vacation time for jury duty?
Most states prohibit requiring employees to use vacation or PTO for jury duty, though policies vary.
What if jury duty lasts a long time?
Employers must allow time off for the duration of jury service, regardless of length. Pay requirements for extended service vary by state.
Track Jury Duty Leave Easily
LeavePlan Pro helps you manage all types of employee leave, ensuring compliance and making tracking effortless.