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Firing

Beware close timing between FMLA leave and discipline

04/15/2019
The closer a termination comes to the end of a worker’s FMLA leave, the more likely she may win an FMLA-retaliation lawsuit.

Fired harasser can’t collect unemployment

04/02/2019
If you have a robust harassment policy that prohibits even a single incident of unwanted touching, rest assured that a fired harasser won’t be eligible for unemployment benefits.

Beware firing after employee has asked for FMLA leave

04/02/2019
Terminating an employee for absenteeism after she’s requested FMLA leave is likely to trigger a lawsuit.

Weigh all the risks of bringing criminal charges against terminated employee

03/26/2019
Sometimes employee misbehavior is so egregious that you’re tempted to call the police. But you should think twice before filing criminal charges against a former employee. Consider all the possible consequences.

Carefully document customer complaints if they might be used to justify termination

03/12/2019
If your employees can be terminated because of customer complaints, make sure you have a reliable method for tracking those complaints. Be sure to include as many details as possible.

Go to jail, get fired, collect unemployment anyway

01/31/2019
Employees who engage in misconduct generally aren’t eligible for unemployment benefits. But that doesn’t mean a blanket rule that calls for firing anyone who is incarcerated will automatically rule out unemployment compensation.

Document precise reason for termination

01/02/2019
Detailed documentation is your best defense if a fired employee sues for discrimination. You will be able to show that your reasons were not motivated by bias.

Employee’s decision to file lawsuit in justice court may backfire

12/04/2018
A worker can’t add additional claims to her case on appeal that go over the dollar limit for justice court cases.

Always record the date when you made a decision to fire

12/04/2018
Do you note the date and time of every termination decision? If not, you should.

Be sure to document reasons that led to your decision to terminate

12/04/2018
No matter how fair you have been, always assume an employee who has been disciplined will sue, alleging some form of discrimination. Be prepared!