What are my rights if I experience intimidation from a supervisor on a continual basis?
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What are my rights if I experience intimidation from a supervisor on a continual basis?
She recently called me an offensive name and got very irate with me. She is very overbearing; the only way to describe it is a “jib-jab” constant “one upsmanship” conduct. All the time, everyday. I didn’t agree with her on something and was called an offensive name. She’s forged my initials on things, blamed me for things I never did, and is constantly verbally beating me up for things done wrong, small things. Since she is my supervisor, do I have a case?
Asked on December 2, 2015 under Employment Labor Law, Texas
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
There is legal recousre for an employee whp is subjected to a hostile work environment. This is a workplace environment that prevents them from carrying out their job duties in a reasonable manner. Basically, a superior or co-worker, either by behavior or actions, creates an environment that is counterproductive to their performing their work duties. That having been said, these behaviors typically must be legally discriminatory and not just the result of rude or unprofessional behavior.
Note: Legal discrimination in the workplace is action taken against an employee because they are a member of a "protected class"; in other words due to their race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, etc.
d on the limited facts that you have presented, you may have a valid claim here. At this point, you can consult with an employment law attorney or contact your state's department of labor.
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
You would only have a case if the offensive behavior is because of your race, sex, religion, age over 40, or disability. Otherwise, a supervisor is *allowed* to be abusive to her staff--the law does not require supervisors to be fair, professional, etc.
If the offensive behavior was aimed at you due to one of the characteristics described above, then you may have an employment discrimination case, and may wish to speak with the federal EEOC or the state equal/civil rights agency about filing a complaint.
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