Ontario Boosts Juror Pay to $120 Daily Starting Day 1
Starting Wednesday, Ontario will increase juror compensation to $120 daily from the first day of service. This change responds to long-standing concerns regarding the remuneration of jurors in the province, which hadn’t changed since 1989. The announcement was made by Attorney General Doug Downey during the opening of the courts in Toronto last Thursday.
Details of the New Juror Pay Structure
Under the previous compensation system, jurors received no pay for the first ten days of trial. After ten days, they were compensated as follows:
- $40 per day from days 11 to 49
- $100 per day from day 50 onward
This outdated structure often presented financial barriers for individuals summoned for jury duty, particularly those unable to receive wages from their employers during their absence.
Encouraging Civic Participation
Attorney General Downey emphasized the crucial role juries play in the justice system. He expressed gratitude towards citizens from diverse backgrounds willing to fulfill their civic responsibilities. He noted, “This long overdue reform will remove financial barriers, ease burdens on families, and strengthen participation in one of our most vital aspects of democracy.”
Reactions to the Change
Reactions from various stakeholders have been positive. Mark Farrant, CEO of the Canadian Juries Commission, acknowledged the increase as a step towards making juries more representative of Canadian society. He pointed out that individuals in lower-wage sectors or gig jobs often had economic limitations preventing them from serving in the past.
Anna Wong, president of the Toronto Lawyers Association, called the pay increase a “welcome reform.” She highlighted that the adjustment acknowledges the rising cost of living since the previous compensation rates were established.
Comparison with Other Provinces
While Ontario’s new juror compensation is a progressive move, other provinces lag behind in their pay structures. For instance:
- Nova Scotia: $40 per day
- Alberta: $50 per day
Farrant hopes Ontario’s reform will motivate neighboring provinces to reconsider their jury compensation rates. Additionally, he advocates for improved post-trial mental health support for jurors.
Conclusion
The increase in juror pay to $120 daily from the first day of service marks a significant reform in Ontario’s justice system. It aims to alleviate financial pressures for jurors and promote broader participation across demographics. This change is a welcome step towards ensuring that juries reflect the community they serve.
