Legal Question in Employment Law in New York

Can they force me to shorten my skirt?

I am age 29 and a pediatrician. I work at a federally funded article 28 clinic

Here's the problem: I like to wear very long skirts, skirts that come down to my ankle. The director of the clinic believes that long skirts make me look young, too young to inspire the confidence of patients, anyway. I was been told that if she does not switch to shorter skirts (mid calf) I'll be fired.

Many other woman at the clinic, including nurses, receptionists and one 52 year old doctor, also wear long skirts occasionally. Only I had her job threatened.

Any rights or remdies you can suggest would be appreciated

Any thoughts?


Asked on 6/07/02, 4:28 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Ralph Soukis Attorney at Law

Re: Can they force me to shorten my skirt?

Ask your director to put that order in writing. If he does so, and I doubt it, file a complaint with the EEOC and then seek out an attorney.

Ralph Soukis

201-599-0744

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Answered on 6/10/02, 8:13 am
Brendan Chao Brendan Chao - Attorney & Counselor at Law

Re: Can they force me to shorten my skirt?

I would not rush into filing a charge of discrimination too quickly. Filing the charge will make your work environment very uncomfortable. There may be sex discrimination at work here, but there are other ways to deal with this than firing off a charge of discrimination. Btw, is the director of the clinic male?

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Answered on 6/10/02, 9:25 am
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Can they force me to shorten my skirt?

Sounds like your director is nuts. Are the male doctors wearing shorter pants? Sounds like sex discrimination to me. Advise him so and file a complaint with the appropriate department.

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Answered on 6/07/02, 5:20 pm


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