Can I file a claim against my former employer because they spread rumors about me and wrongfully disclosed information about my pay to another employee?
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Can I file a claim against my former employer because they spread rumors about me and wrongfully disclosed information about my pay to another employee?
I’ve been fired as a result of another co-worker who misinterpreted my words and got too dramatic. Then my employer decided to put all the fault on me by spreading rumors in order for the other person to calm down.
Asked on November 18, 2018 under Employment Labor Law, Washington
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
As for your termination, the fact is that unless you had protection under the terms of an employment contract or union agreement, then you were an "at will" worker. This means that you could have been fired for any reason or no reson at all, with or without notice. The fact is that a company can set the conditions of employment much as they see fit (absent some form of legaly actionable discrimination). As for the rumors be spread about, if they are in fact false, they you may possibly have an action for defamation. However, without more details it is hard to say. At this point, you can consult directly with a local employment law attorney who can best advise you further.
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