Yes, most of us know that threatening to strangle someone, let alone actually doing it is wrong. It’s asking for trouble. It should not be tolerated in any setting, including the workplace. So, why even write about it? Because, unfortunately, it happens. When it does it’s often the stuff that makes up a lawsuit. An […]
Furloughs Aren’t Illegal, Are They?
Suppose you find your company is affected by the pandemic and resulting economic downturn. You decide to furlough some of your employees. You inform them of their impending furlough. You hope that you can now focus on staying afloat until the economy improves. Could the furloughs themselves cause you other problems? What if your employees […]
A SLAPP in the Face? Why You Might Not Want to File a Counterclaim in a Workplace Harassment Suit
“My employee just sued me and my company claiming sexual harassment. It’s patently false. I want to counter-sue”. I’ve heard this one before. Can you file a counterclaim to a workplace harassment suit? In theory, maybe. Should you? That’s another question altogether. Why shouldn’t you file a counterclaim — particularly if you really believe — and maybe even […]
This Employer Got In Trouble For Changing an Employee’s Shift…
Does your organization require employees to work in shifts? Many do. Can you hire an employee in one shift and later ask the employee to work another shift? Generally speaking, yes. Wait. Generally speaking? What does that mean? Doesn’t an employer have a right to determine its needs and hire accordingly? Same answer. Does that mean […]
Can You Retaliate — Against An Employee Who Never Worked For You?
Have you ever been accused of retaliation by an someone who was never your employee? Whaaat? I know what some of you are thinking. This crazy lady has really flipped her lid now. Is it left-over spiked punch from Monday night? (Nope sorry, didn’t have any). Is it global warming? (Doubtful, though it gets blamed […]