Legal Question in Employment Law in California

Employee Abuse at Law Firm

I have worked for a firm for over a year doing secretarial/paralegal work. I have been asked if I am ''retarded'' multiple times by my employers and have been threatened with termination on numerous occasions in a non-constructive, yelling tone with rarely coherent merit. My co-worker, just this morning, had a credit card flicked at her head as our principle asked ''jesus do you also want a fucking urine sample?'' as my co-worker simply asked him for a zip code. Are there grounds for a law suit here? We are sick of being belittled but can't say anything to them out of fear of losing our jobs.


Asked on 10/10/08, 5:28 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Arkady Itkin Law Office of Arkady Itkin

Re: Employee Abuse at Law Firm

I am sorry about your experience at work.

Depending upon the frequently and objective severity of your employer's conduct (which sounds quite severe) you might have legitimate claims for harassment and hostile work environment.

I am an employment attorney in your area, if you would like to discuss this further, feel free to contact me.

Thanks,

Arkady Itkin

www.sanfranciscoemploymentlawfirm.com

Read more
Answered on 10/13/08, 8:19 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: Employee Abuse at Law Firm

If you are perceived to have a mental disability, the employer should provide you with reasonable accommodation. So, there might be a violation of Government Code section 12940.

Seriously, though, some lawyers (not all) are known to be egomaniacal and have ferocious tempers. Your co-worker might have a claim for battery. I don't think you'll ever change this person's way of doing things. So, you're going to have to make a choice about whether you want to remain in that abusive relationship or seek out work with friendlier attorneys.

Read more
Answered on 10/13/08, 9:14 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Labor and Employment Law questions and answers in California