Legal Question in Employment Law in Illinois

I am an independent contractor and have an assigned territory. The "area manager" that oversees the area in my territory who is an employee of the company. The "area manager" treats me and has harrassed me over the past 9 months as if I was an employee, telling me how I to do my work; that I need to submit weekly report schedules to him; that I need to be a team player with other independent contractors in the area and must meet with him whenever he requests.

From a legal standpoint, could I contact the HR department that is with the company that I am independently contracted for?


Asked on 3/20/13, 8:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stephen Messutta

Being an independent contractor for withholding and benefits purposes doesn't mean that the company can't have overall protocols, policies and procedures that can be binding on you despite your "employment" status, including but not limited to certain sales scripting (if you're in sales for example) as well as reporting protocols. If these were not explained when you were "hired" then it may just be bad orientation and it may be best to start with your area manager, sit down and go over these things. Jumping to HR before giving the manager a chance may only sour the process.

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Answered on 3/20/13, 12:21 pm


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