Your employer cannot stop you doing jury service and cannot dismiss you for attending. Describe your situation and get instant guidance on your rights.
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What you need to know
If you receive a jury summons you are legally required to attend unless you are eligible to be excused or your service is deferred. Failing to attend without good reason is a criminal offence and can result in a fine. Jury service typically lasts up to ten working days but can be longer for complex cases.
Your employer cannot refuse to allow you to attend jury service, cannot dismiss you for doing so, and cannot subject you to any detriment because of it. Dismissal for attending jury service is automatically unfair, regardless of how long you have worked for the employer.
There is no statutory right to be paid by your employer during jury service, unless your contract provides for it. The court pays a loss of earnings allowance directly to you — up to £64.95 per day for the first ten days and up to £129.91 per day thereafter. These rates are relatively low so check your employment contract to see if your employer pays full salary.
You can apply to defer your jury service once if you have a genuine reason — such as a pre-booked holiday, an important work deadline, or a medical appointment. You can apply to be excused entirely in exceptional circumstances such as a serious illness. Applications must be made promptly and in writing to the Jury Central Summoning Bureau.
Self-employed people and contractors must still attend jury service but may find the loss of earnings allowance does not fully cover their lost income. You should still apply for the maximum allowance available. If the financial impact would cause serious hardship you can raise this when applying for a deferral.
When jury service ends you have the right to return to your job on no less favourable terms and conditions than before you left. Your continuity of employment is preserved throughout jury service.
This guidance is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current figures and legislation on GOV.UK or seek professional advice for your specific situation.