Purpose of Witness Duty Benefit

The University acknowledges that staff may on occasion be required to appear in court as a witness. This policy provides for the necessary time off and for protection of the employee's position with the University during such absences.

Description of Witness Duty Benefit

A regular full-time or regular part-time employee required by law to appear in court as a witness may take time off for such a purpose without losing their position, provided that reasonable notification is given, and the department is able to provide for fulfillment of the employee's responsibilities during the absence.

Staff members who take time off for witness duty for personal reasons may use accrued vacation to cover the absence. Payment of time off once accrued vacation is exhausted will be made in cases where necessary to maintain Federal Fair Labor Standards Act exemptions.

Employee Responsibilities

Immediately upon receiving a subpoena, the employee must notify the supervisor, so that arrangements can be made for fulfillment of the employee's responsibilities during the absence. If the time off is to be unpaid and will be in excess of five working days, the employee must also complete a Leave of Absence form, available in the Office of Human Resources.

Witness Duty Benefit Limitations and Exclusions

Positions of staff and faculty other than regular full-time or regular part-time positions will not be protected.