Can an employer suspend an employee due to a false sexual harrasment claim?
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Can an employer suspend an employee due to a false sexual harrasment claim?
I was suspended from work on a false sexual harassment claim. HR called me in Friday, said everything on my end checked out and there was no sexual harassment. Cool. However, when I went in to work on Monday, I was told that I’m being suspended with no pay because the accuser decided to involve her attorney. Is this legal?
Asked on July 31, 2017 under Employment Labor Law, Utah
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
In an "at will" work arrangement, a company can set the conditions of employment much as it sees fit. This includes when and why to terminate, suspend or otherwise discipline a worker. That is unless such action violates the terms of an employment contract or union agreement, or constitutes some form of legally actionable discrimination. Bottom line, your supension is perfectly permissable.
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