Does your company have a dress code, or an appearance or grooming policy? Many companies do. What exactly is a dress code or appearance/grooming policy, and why is it important? Generally speaking, these policies are a set of standards set by a company to provide its employees guidance about what is and is not appropriate […]
Regardless of What the Supreme Court Rules on Title VII, an Employee CAN Win a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Case…
Many of us are waiting with interest for the US Supreme Court’s decision as to whether Title VII of the Civil Rights Act’s prohibition against sex discrimination includes discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. While we’re waiting though, the issue is not on hold. Last month a police sergeant in Missouri won just […]
Disability Discrimination, Joint Employment and the EEOC– Oh My!
You have attendance policies, right? I hope so. Most employers seem to have them–and you should. Your employees need to know what is expected of them. You are somewhat ham-stringed if you try to discipline an employee due to attendance issues when you don’t have a clear policy. Your first thought might be to make […]
Best Regards? Regarding an Employee as Disabled Also Violates the ADA
Guess what: Under the ADA, sometimes you can be on the hook for disability discrimination even when your employee doesn’t prove that s/he actually has a disability. Say, whaaaat? How can that be? Title I of the ADA applies to qualified individuals with disabilities in hiring and employment. So how can an employee be protected […]
How NOT to Handle an Employee’s Pregnancy
Your employee has just told you she is pregnant. What do you do? Do you: A. Decide it’s time to celebrate, throw a party and buy lots of booties; B. Fire her once she’s five months pregnant. That’s your company’s policy. C. Congratulate her, ask her when she is looking to go out on leave, […]