Media release 8 October 2001
Employers not required to pay for jury service
Business NZ Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says employers will welcome the High Court's clear message on payment for jury
service.
Earlier this year a Whangarei employer was advised by a District Court judge that employers should avoid imposing any
financial penalties on staff called for jury service. The advice caused uncertainty for employers since it implied they
should pay staff when they served on juries.
The High Court has now set aside the District Court's ruling.
Mr Carlaw said it was important to confirm that the Department for Courts is responsible for paying people doing jury
service, not their employers, and any top-up or leave arrangements that may be agreed remain discretionary.
Contact Simon Carlaw 04 4966555 (work)