Legal Question in Employment Law in California

My boss implied that if I didn't request a demotion he would write me up for small things until he could terminate my employment. After I requested the demotion he did not speak to me about the details for weeks. He then told several of my coworkers that I was stepping down which was humiliating as I thought it would be confidential. When he gave my new offer for my salary after my demotion he said that I should be grateful I got my raise from the previous year and grateful that he didn't terminate me and instead let me step down. Would this be considered harassment or a hostile work environment? It sure feels like it! Also I had no performance issues to speak of. Not one single document or verbal coaching.


Asked on 2/06/13, 4:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

No, it is not harassment, and it is not 'illegal'. Not only are there no laws against poor management, 'unfair treatment', or rude, obnoxious or harassing behavior by management or other employees, but in general, unless an employee is civil service, in a union, or has a written employment contract, they are an 'at will' employee that can be disciplined or terminated any time for any reason, with or without �cause�, explanation or notice. Any employee's goal should be to keep their supervisors happy and make them look good to the company, and make the company money. That�s how the company pays employee wages. If you don't, then don't be surprised to be replaced.

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Answered on 2/07/13, 11:34 am


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