Legal Question in Employment Law in Oregon

Re: Docking Pay

No, it is not legal for the employer to deduct for mistakes, breakage, or costs from an employee's paycheck. Such a deduction violates a specific statute which permits deductions only for specific reasons and under specific circumstances, none of which existS in your situation. A violation entitles the victim to recovery of the wrongful deduction, plus at least $200 in damages, or actual damages if greater. Also, attorneys fees are payable for prosecution of the claim for the damages.

On the other hand, although an employer is not permitted to deduct the sum from the paycheck, the employer legally may discipline and/or terminate the employment of an employee who causes losses to the company, excessive breakage, etc.

The above does not constitute legal opinion and is offered for the

purposes of discussion only. The law differs in every jurisdiction, and

you should not rely on any opinion except that of an attorney you have

retained, who has a professional duty to advise you after being fully informed of all the pertinent facts and who is familiar with the applicable law.