Legal Question in Employment Law in California

Feeling harrassed and verbally abused by employer who is a wellknown attorney

I've worked at a particular law firm for about 1 year and have experienced verbal abuse and harassment from my employer.The attorney I work for is so abusive one of our file clerks has been secretly tape recording all her verbal abuse!! In addition to the verbal we (secretaries & file clerks) have all participated in picking up her many, and I do many, prescription drugs and alcohol - all while on the job. Not only does she not reimburse us for mileage but she also blames us for not paying her rent.


Asked on 10/21/03, 7:28 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Thomas Pavone Pavone & Cohen

Re: Feeling harrassed and verbally abused by employer who is a wellknown attorne

If you incure expenses on behalf of your employer, such as mileage expenses for employer mandated automobile travel, you are entitled to reimbursement. If the firm has an expense reimbursement form for employees you should complete the form and submit it for payment.

Although you didn't inquire, I would caution against audio recording where all participants have not agreed to allow the recording. In California this is a crime and any recording would not be admissable in any claim against the employer.

Read more
Answered on 10/29/03, 6:34 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: Feeling harrassed and verbally abused by employer who is a wellknown attorne

I think I know the attorney for whom you work, or several like her, unfortunately. There's nothing illegal about a boss engaging in boorish behavior. Of course, the remedy is to talk to the office manager and/or managing partner (assuming your boss isn't one of them), and ask them to keep the info confidential, but it's causing severe distress in the workplace . . . not only to you but the others as well. The only compensation you could receive is through workers' compensation for emotional distress, which isn't always the best idea. Also, I agree with my colleague that taping what would be private conversations is illegal and should not be done. Finally, if you are picking up alcohol(ic beverages), and she consumes them -- or you suspect she does -- during the work day, that should also be brought to the attention of the powers that be. Doesn't sound like a great working environment and, I agree, if it affects your work and your morale, something must be done.

Read more
Answered on 10/29/03, 8:02 pm
Donald Holben Donald R. Holben & Associates, APC

Re: Feeling harrassed and verbally abused by employer who is a wellknown attorne

Recording without knowledge is a misdemeanor and info typically not admiss in court. Why are you with this person any longer. Harder to find good staff than attorneys, so you should not have great difficulty in finding new position.

Read more
Answered on 11/03/03, 12:40 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Labor and Employment Law questions and answers in California