Open door policies show up in a lot of Washington employee handbooks, and management often sells them as proof the workplace is fair and supportive. Supervisors may even say you can stop by anytime to talk about what is going on. For hourly workers trying to keep the...
Maloney O'Laughlin PLLC fights for employees throughout Washington, from Kirkland to Spokane.
Retaliation
Off-the-clock texts and group chats: Can that count as workplace harassment?
Harassment does not always stop at the time clock. Group chats and late‑night texts can follow you home and then trail you back onto the next shift. In Washington, off‑the‑clock messages can contribute to a hostile work environment when they tie to work and target a...
How can retaliation hurt older workers in particular?
Older employees bring valuable experience and knowledge to the workplace. However, they might face tough challenges when they decide to speak out about problems at work, like the risk of retaliation. Retaliation happens when employers punish employees for standing up...
Can your employer fire you for discussing wages?
The discussion of wages is a controversial topic. Many employers actively discourage or prohibit it. Rules against discussing pay are fairly common, with some companies putting them in writing. Therefore, it comes as a surprise to many workers in Washington state that...
What are subtle signs of retaliation?
After reporting unlawful or unethical behavior in a workplace, it is natural to feel some concern about the possibility of retaliation. After all, even if retaliatory actions are illegal, that does not stop people from engaging in it. Subtle signs of retaliation often...
Facts you should know about employer retaliation
It is an unfortunate fact that employers can and will retaliate against you. Although not all employers are the same, many have the mindset that they can do anything they want because you are their employee. Fortunately, under the Equal Employment Act, you do have...
What are the repercussions of workplace retaliation?
Being the subject of workplace retaliation can have many repercussions on both your personal and professional life. Feeling uncertain about your career because of the irrational and unprofessional conduct of others may cause disinterest that affects your productivity....