Legal Question in Sexual Harassment in Tennessee

Loss of job due to sexual harrassment

About 3 months ago I was a supervisor for the same company I work for now. I am now in a different position and do not work in that department. Recently a employee has been upset about several people in the department and accused me of talking bad about my ex wife, joking about liking someones ankles and commenting on someones comment in the department about a mans testicles. We are a clinical laboratory and I used the word testicles to correct the employee about using slang. A lot of other joking went on in the department and it was never brought to my attention that it was bothering her. She has since claimed that several others in the department are behaving in a wrong fasion. My question is can I lose my job without being reprimanded first?


Asked on 3/10/03, 7:46 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
James R. Becker, Jr. Becker Law Firm

Re: Loss of job due to sexual harrassment

The unfortunate answer is probably, yes. In Tennessee you are, absent a contract, what is known as an employee at-will. This means that your employment is at the will of both you and your employer. You are free to quit at any time and your employer is free to fire you at any time. There are, however, some important exceptions to this general rule. The law will prohibit discrimination and retaliation.

In your situation, it would be a good idea to speak with an attorney who may be able to guide you through this situation. If you would like to contact our office, we will be happy to arrange a consultation with you.

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Answered on 3/12/03, 11:51 am


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