Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in New York

Freedom of Speech. I work for a County govt in NY. I asked for references from home email acct on my own time. I asked some therapists/agencies the County contracts with. One therapist felt uncomfortable and complained rather than just say- "sorry I dont feel comfortable writing a letter of reference". My employer has since forbid me to communicate with ANY contracted therapists/agencies on my own time or work time about anything other than specific cases. Can they restrict my freedom of speech like that?


Asked on 6/30/10, 3:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Locksley Wade Law Office of Locksley O. Wade

This does not fall within the freedom of speech context that is accorded to public employees voicing something of a public concern. It seems that you are using your government contact and purported government power for your own private benefit; as such, you could face a disciplinary action rather than a cautious warning.

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Answered on 7/01/10, 10:00 am


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