What happens when an unhappy worker is either fired or resigns from your company? Hopefully nothing. But in far too many cases, a former employee who believes he or she was wronged will file a lawsuit. Alleging anything from discrimination to harassment, a lawsuit could cost your business serious money. Although there is no way to guarantee you’ll never be sued, there are ways to mitigate the risk. The Connecticut business law attorneys of Aeton Law Partners explain.
Tips to Help Your Company Avoid Unnecessary Employment Litigation:
Know the relevant laws.
Arguably the best thing you can do to reduce the chance of a lawsuit is to know the law. Understanding the relevant rules involving employees can help guide your business operations. Our attorneys can assist in this critical role. We advise Connecticut businesses on the various laws and regulations that impact their workforce.
Adopt – and enforce – written policies and procedures.
The absence of objective rules is a breeding ground for baseless accusations against your business. Without written policies and procedures, employer behavior and discipline can be misinterpreted as harassment and discrimination. Adopting and enforcing written rules is a relatively simple remedy that can avoid major headaches.
Write down job descriptions for all positions.
Every position in your business, whether filled or not, needs to be named and described. It should include essential job functions and performance expectations. You may also want to include, where relevant, background education and prior experience requirements. Taking this step makes it easier to justify firing an employee who doesn’t measure up.
Use employment contracts.
By using contracts, you can define the employer-employee relationship. Contracts make it clear what each party’s obligations and expectations are. When an employee breaches the contract, it becomes easier to terminate employment or take other action. But be sure you are fulfilling your end of the agreement.
Provide health and safety training for all workers.
Employees in dangerous sectors, like heavy industry, especially need adequate health and safety training. But all Connecticut companies can benefit from a well-trained workforce. The fewer accidents that occur at your business, the better. And in the event one does happen, your business is generally better positioned if training has taken place.
Acquire the insurance coverage your company needs.
Depending on which industry you are in, you may need a number of insurance policies. Workers’ compensation, premises liability, and commercial liability are some examples. Our Connecticut business lawyers can advise you as to which types of policies you should have. We can also suggest coverage amounts to ensure you are protected.
Document anything affecting your employees.
It’s always a good idea to have a paper trail for anything that impacts your workers. From company-wide policies to disciplinary actions, document everything. You should also cite other policies where relevant. For instance, if an employee is written up for violating a company rule, clearly cite the rule. This paper trail could come in handy if you are later accused of wrongdoing.
Aeton Law Partners: For All Your Connecticut Business Law Needs
Have questions about employment matters that affect your company? Aeton Law Partners has you covered. We are your comprehensive Connecticut business lawyers. To find out more about how we can serve your organization, give our firm a call today.