Legal Question in Employment Law in California

Harrassment on the Job

My manager is abusive (i.e., fits of anger-throwing, slamming files, snatching papers; verbally abusive;retaliates if confronted about it and generally makes for a very tense work environment. Two weeks ago, I met with the head of our dept. ( V.P.) and without going into explicit detail, let him know that I was not comfortable working with this manager, especially in "one on one" situations. One week ago, the V.P. invited my manager and me to lunch to try and work things out. Again, I let the V.P. know that I was not comfortable. The V.P. promised to get back to me in a few days. I've heard nothing so far, and my situation is now even more uncomfortable. I am afraid to take this to our Human Resources Dept. until I hear from my V.P. and I don't know how to interact with my manager until this is resolved. Basically, I try and make sure that I'm never alone with him? Can you give me some guidance on the next steps I should take?


Asked on 2/09/00, 4:12 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Ken Koury Kenneth P. Koury, Esq.

Re: Harrassment on the Job

Sounds like the VP is a pretty decent guy who is trying to work things out. i would give it another week or so and then talk to the VP again as a follow up.

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Answered on 2/10/00, 12:57 am
Roger Renfro Renfro & Associates Law Corporation

Re: Harrassment on the Job

This response assumes you work for a CA employer, within CA. Based upon your description of the facts, I would suggest you avail yourself of whatever remedies your employer has implemented for its employees. These remedies (i.e., policies and procedures) are usually published in an employee handbook, or posted on the company's bulletin board. One of these remedies may require you to file your complaint about your manager directl with HR. Even if not required, it is probably a good idea to HR anyway, even before the VP gets back to you (e.g., the VP may have forgotten to followup with you). Recent events suggest that abusive behavior at the work place could lead to violence. You probably should make HR aware of your concerns regarding abuse right away. You also should let HR know the date you filed a complaint with the VP about your manager, and what he did about it. If all else fails, you should consult with a local employment law attorney for personal advice.

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Answered on 2/10/00, 10:25 am


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