If you have to miss work due to jury duty, it is important to know your rights as an employee when facing this mandatory civil obligation. There may be employers who either are ignorant of the laws concerning jury duty or intentionally try to avoid following the laws for their own benefit.
For starters, it is essential to know you cannot be punished for having to take time off from work to complete your service, even if you end up on extended leave for more complicated cases. Employers have to make the appropriate arrangements to ensure you are afforded the time necessary. They cannot force you to make up lost work hours during the weekends or other times when you are not normally scheduled to work.
Missing work for jury duty is a legitimate excuse for taking time off. You will also be reimbursed for time served on jury duty either by your employer or by the State of New York. As jury duty is mandatory, it is important you show up as you have been requested and do what is necessary to fulfill your civic duty. You should never miss scheduled duties or you could face penalties by law.
Knowing your rights as a worker summoned to jury duty can ensure your time away from work is smooth and free of complications. If you have never been called for duty, it would be well worth your time to research your rights in preparation for the event. The courts can provide you a proof of service if your employer needs such documentation so be sure to have your employer updated on your days off and the proper documentation so you’ll get paid properly without a hassle.
