Ontario Jurors to Receive Increased Compensation Starting Wednesday
Starting Wednesday, Ontario jurors will receive $120 per day from the first day of service, a significant increase from the previous compensation structure. While advocates applaud this change, some emphasize the need for further support for jurors.
Overdue Reform Addresses "Neglected" Area of Justice
Attorney General Doug Downey announced the change at the opening of the courts ceremony in Toronto last Thursday, noting that the jury fee structure in the province had not been updated since 1989. He described this area of the justice system as "neglected," highlighting the need for reform.
Previously, jurors in Ontario received no compensation for the first 10 days of trial. From days 11 to 49, they received $40 per day, and $100 per day from day 50 onwards. The new policy ensures immediate compensation to help offset financial burdens.
"I know we can all agree that juries play a vital role in our justice system. And I, for one, am very grateful when ordinary citizens from all walks of life answer the call and participate in the judicial process," Downey said.
The Attorney General emphasized that some individuals face personal and economic sacrifices while fulfilling their civic duty, often without adequate compensation.
Impact and Perspectives on the Compensation Increase
Mark Farrant, CEO of the Canadian Juries Commission, welcomed the move, stating that the increased compensation could lead to more representative juries. He noted that many Ontarians, especially those in the wage sector or gig economy, may have been unable to serve on juries due to the previous low compensation.
According to Farrant, historically, juries have been composed largely of older Canadians, retirees, and individuals with employers or unions that continue to pay their salaries during jury duty. The increased compensation aims to remove financial barriers and encourage broader participation.
"Historically, juries have been made up of older Canadians, retirees, people working for large corporations or in unionized sectors where their salary or wages may be continued," said Farrant.
Anna Wong, president of the Toronto Lawyers Association, also praised the increase as "a welcome reform," acknowledging the rising cost of living since the previous juror compensation structure was established.
Calls for Further Support and National Consistency
While acknowledging the positive impact of the pay increase, Farrant emphasized the ongoing need for improvements to the juror support system. He pointed out that some provinces still offer jury pay "well below minimum wage," citing Nova Scotia ($40 per day) and Alberta ($50 per day) as examples.
Farrant expressed hope that Ontario’s decision will prompt other provinces to follow suit and increase juror compensation. He also advocated for improved post-trial mental health support for jurors, acknowledging the emotional toll that jury duty can take.
The increased compensation is a step toward ensuring that juries are truly reflective of the population they serve. As Farrant noted, representation is crucial to the fairness and integrity of the justice system.
"We’ve known that the juries haven’t been as reflective as we wanted them to be so this is another step in the right direction to improve diversity on juries."
| Province | Daily Juror Compensation |
|---|---|
| Ontario (Starting Wednesday) | $120 |
| Nova Scotia | $40 |
| Alberta | $50 |
