Legal Question in Business Law in Virginia

Reference Letters

I have reason to believe that my supervisor has written a less than stellar letter of reference for me. She has told me that she has written an excellent one, and that she wants to do whatever she can to get me to stay in my current job. She has never discussed with me any issues regarding my performance and I have received excellent yearly evaluations. What recourse do I have? My prospective employers require a reference from her.


Asked on 3/04/07, 4:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Ruth Emily Kochard Ruth Emily Kochard, Counselor at Law

Re: Reference Letters

In giving references an employer is able to provide his/her own honest opinion with respect to the employee's performance. However, if an employer makes negative unsubstantiated claims there may be liaility for defamation, as well as a criminal penalty for blacklisting. I advise that you have an attorney review your particular circumstances.

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Answered on 3/05/07, 10:24 am
John Jackson Law Office of John A. Jackson, P.C.

Re: Reference Letters

It would depend on what the letter said. If you could get a copy of it then maybe an attorney could advise you of a course of action.

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Answered on 3/04/07, 5:22 pm


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