Jury service is an important civic duty that every citizen must fulfill when called upon. However, for contractors, serving on a jury can be a significant disruption to their professional life and financial stability. In this article, we will discuss the impact of jury service on contractors and explore some options contractors have to manage this obligation.
Contractors often work on a project basis, which means they have a strict timeline to complete their work and meet their clients` expectations. Jury service can disrupt this timeline and lead to missed deadlines, which can have severe consequences for their business. Furthermore, jury service does not come with compensation that matches contractors` earnings, which can create financial hardships.
Fortunately, there are several ways contractors can manage jury service without compromising their financial stability or professional obligations. The first option is to try and postpone the service date by contacting the courthouse. Contractors can request a deferment for up to six months, which will provide them with some flexibility to plan around the service date and complete their ongoing projects.
Another option is to seek an exemption from jury service if the contractor has a legitimate reason that makes it difficult for them to serve. The reasons for exemption may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but some common categories include financial hardship, medical conditions, and caring responsibilities for family members.
If neither of these options works, contractors may need to be strategic about managing their workload during the jury service period. They can communicate with their clients and explain the situation, providing them with a clear timeline for completing their work. Contractors can also consider outsourcing some of their work to other professionals to ensure that the project is completed on time.
In conclusion, serving on a jury as a contractor can be a challenging situation. Still, there are various ways to manage the obligation without putting their business or financial stability at risk. It is essential to understand the available options and plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition during the jury service period. By doing so, contractors can fulfill their civic duty while maintaining their professional obligations.