Most workers don't think about sexual harassment policies after they signed paperwork when their employer hires them. Rules against harassment and company policy about how to report certain issues may seem unimportant to you until the moment you indoor mistreatment on...
Employment Law
What is national origin discrimination?
There are a variety of reasons someone may face discrimination in the workplace -- and none of them are good. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) laws and their state equivalents prohibit discrimination for a variety of reasons, including one’s...
Can a school require you to dress a certain way when you teach?
When you’re teaching, you want to be comfortable. You like your hair styled the way you want and to have clothing that fits the circumstances in your classroom. Schools do have a right to ask teachers to dress within a specific dress code, but that is not to say that...
Can off-color jokes be workplace discrimination?
Some comments that are made in the workplace are clearly discriminatory. If a supervisor says that you have to take on a task that no one else wants because that’s what people of your race are supposed to do, that’s not only highly offensive, but it’s also clearly...
Can your employer enforce a noncompete agreement after you quit?
Many skilled professionals and even blue-collar workers change jobs frequently to continue developing their careers. Long gone are the days when someone stayed at the same place where they got their first job until they retired. Companies don't always promote from...
Know your rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act
Many employees worry about what will happen to them and their job position if they fall ill or have to take care of a family member who has gotten sick. The Family and Medical Leave Act provides certain employees with protections if this occurs. Employees who think...
What does it mean to be a whistleblower?
Employees have the right to speak up if there are illegal activities going on in a business. There are specific laws that apply if an employee reports those illegal activities. These laws are meant to encourage reports of illegal activities while discouraging...
Does your employer have a right to refuse reasonable accommodations?
Aging and changes in your life may make your ability to complete your work more difficult. Where you once could be on your feet for several hours at a time, you now need to rest more regularly. You used to do well with the hustle and bustle of the office, but you...
Pennsylvania whistleblowers, watch out for signs of retaliation
Blowing the whistle on unlawful and unethical workplace behaviors is a powerful tool against corruption. In a way, whistleblowers are the conscience of the workforce. They stand against corruption for others by showing people how to be fearless in the face of...
How companies discriminate against their most experienced employees
The longer you have been with a company or worked in a particular profession, the more experience and expertise you have. Workers with decades of knowledge in their field have a lot to offer the companies that employ them. Unfortunately, some businesses don't value...