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Firing

Cite poor performance to justify termination

09/13/2019
Smart employers always document poor performance with specific examples. That way, you have a ready defense for just about any surprise discrimination lawsuit.

Review prior complaints before terminating

09/04/2019
Before approving any recommendation to terminate a worker, review HR records to see if the worker has filed any discrimination or harassment complaints. Ensure the recommendation wasn’t motivated by retaliation.

New employee just isn’t working out? Document specific problems before firing

09/04/2019
Sometimes, you discover that an employee you or your predecessor hired simply isn’t qualified or capable of doing her job. Before you fire her, possibly triggering a lawsuit, take the time to document why she’s not working out.

Yes, you can fire workers who take FMLA leave

09/04/2019
Some employees incorrectly think that if they take FMLA leave, they cannot be fired. That’s just not true.

Workers’ comp retaliation or a legitimate discharge?

08/01/2019
Firing someone shortly after he makes a workers’ compensation claim means risking a retaliation lawsuit. To defend, the employer must show the court that there was a legitimate, unrelated reason for the termination.

Firing whistleblower? Be clear about timing

08/01/2019
Employers should make sure to note exactly when they terminate a whistleblower. Then they should challenge any whistleblower retaliation complaints filed more than 30 days after that date.

Use date-and-time-stamp to document when firing decision was really made

07/30/2019
Having proof of exactly when you recorded the need for discipline can be useful if a claim winds up in court.

Mistaken termination? Offer reinstatement ASAP

07/02/2019
If you realize you erred in terminating an employee, it usually makes sense to immediately offer to reinstate him.

Take extra care when firing after ADA, FMLA

06/10/2019
Firing an employee who is returning from ADA or FMLA leave is a risky proposition. Make absolutely sure you can justify the termination with legitimate business reasons that have nothing to do with missing work, taking leave or requesting accommodations.

Good faith wins, even if you might have been wrong

05/31/2019
Courts almost never second-guess employers’ decisions—even dubious ones—as long as they are confident the decisions were made in good faith.