7 Things Your Boss Can’t Legally Do in the Workplace

Working a job is something that a large majority of us will do at some point or another. Many individuals will try to establish a relationship with their boss, to reach certain goals. These goals should inspire all to accomplish them at some point in the respective quarter. Naturally, everyone will have to work together to get that done.

Some areas may be a cause for concern, however. While the workplace is a place to facilitate collaboration and hard work, not everyone will abide by that guiding principle. Sometimes, even your boss may act out of line and attempt to do something illegally. Here are the most common examples of that sentiment.

1. Arbitrary Demotion

Usually, hard work in the workplace will allow you to reach new levels of success. If your employer recognizes this effort, they can reward you for your progress. However, demotion can sometimes hinder that progress, putting your professional goals into disarray.

What legally prevents this demotion is that your employer needs to have just cause for doing so. They cannot demote you arbitrarily and without a good reason. This can be seen as grounds for discrimination if the right factors exist. Should this be an issue for you, it may be wise to speak to legal counsel and corporate investigation services at some point.

2. Discrimination

Speaking of discrimination, there are clear and cut rules in the workplace that prevent it from occurring. Any instance of explicit or implicit discrimination can be grounds for termination. The same ruleset applies to your employer; they cannot stop you from doing your job based on discriminatory factors.

Many instances of discrimination occurring in place of employment have to do with racial bias. Or gender discrimination may also play a large role, as many women face it constantly. If your boss does this to you in the workplace, you have a direct legal case to pursue!

3. Pay Cuts

The rate of compensation an employee receives is of great importance. Starting, you will be given a base pay, which could see increases down the line. What your boss cannot legally do is cut your pay for no justifiable reason. The reason for this comes down to the contract you sign with them.

If you ever feel that your contract could be disputed, it is encouraged to contact an employment lawyer. These professionals will discuss the minor nuances with you so that no stone is left unturned. Should you ever feel as if there is a problem with your payment, a good lawyer will be able to assist you.

4. Not Pay You

There may even be a time when your boss does not pay you! This is illegal, as a contract will stipulate what form of compensation you receive from your role. In addition, it will also describe when you are supposed to be paid, such as biweekly or monthly. All bosses must adhere to this, or they may face legal ramifications if sued.

5. Forced Into Quitting

As the age-old adage goes, especially concerning employment, always keep your receipts! From communication via email to texts, any harm done to you in written format should be recorded. Should your boss try to force you to quit your role, having the right evidence in your corner will be helpful.

No employer is legally allowed to force you into quitting, as clear rules exist to stop that. Any attempts from them to create a scenario that puts you in this situation can be harmful. Moreover, it may even give you the legal notice you need to sue for damages if the circumstances allow it.

6. Toxic Environment

Human rights in the workplace have become even more important in the contemporary workplace. That is because some employers may try to take advantage of the situation they put their workers in. For example, purposely creating a toxic work environment could force their employees to eventually resign.

On the flip side, this may be seen as illegal through the eyes of an employment lawyer. Should you be on the receiving end of this, always pursue the case if it is available. That way, you will have all of your employment and financial bases covered.

7. Punishment for Feedback

Having your say in the workplace is integral to a healthy working environment. However, if your boss decides to punish you for raising your concerns, they could be sued. Do not let the actions of a bad boss prevent you from conducting yourself in the best possible manner!