Pay for Testimony Policy

Overview/Policy Statement

If employees testify at The Hartford's request and/or on its behalf, they will be paid for scheduled workdays during which they provide testimony. This applies to testimony given in connection with any litigation or matters pending in state or federal court and administrative agencies.

It is also the policy of The Hartford to allow employees to keep any per diem monies provided to them by the court or party issuing the subpoena for their appearance.

Note: This policy does not apply to those called as either fact or expert witnesses in non-Hartford related matters.
Managers and employees are responsible for adherence to company policy. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
 

Rationale

Court appearances have the potential to create a disruptive effect on work schedules. The Hartford provides PTO to enable employees to address personal responsibilities. A court appearance, unless attendance is requested by The Hartford, is considered a personal responsibility of the employee and PTO must be used to cover the absence.
 

Eligibility/Scope

This policy applies to all U.S. employees.
 

Applying the Policy

  • A fact witness testifies about things he or she observed on the job. Before testifying, a fact witness should seek guidance from The Hartford attorney handling the matter.
  • An expert witness is one who provides the benefit of his or her professional opinion. Hartford employees called as expert witnesses often give opinions on insurance practices. Any employee subpoenaed or otherwise asked to testify as expert witnesses should immediately seek guidance from either his/her HR generalist, the Claim Compliance Unit or Corporate Compliance (860-547-7506).
  • Testifying as an expert witness is considered to be a form of outside employment. As such, it is governed by The Hartford's Conflict of Interest Policy.