Legal Question in Employment Law in California

Threats from an employer

My employer threatened to fire me and not allow a promotion if I disclose information to fellow employees about changes going on in the company that will result in them losing their jobs. I feel that their threats are a form of harrassment. Is it legal for them to threaten me and can I be fired for sharing this information?


Asked on 8/21/04, 8:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Thomas Pavone Pavone & Cohen

Re: Threats from an employer

Yes. The employer can terminate you for disclosing information unless there is a legally protected reason for you to disclose it. In short, you have been given a direct order. So long as that order is legal, you must comply or risk the consequences.

The fact that others will lose their jobs does not excuse you to violate an order not to disclose confidential informaion, unless the decision is based on something that would violate the law.

It sounds like you have been trusted with some management information. How well you deal with it may determine your future with the company.

On the other hand if the company is engaged in unlawful activities, futher analysis may be necessary

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Answered on 8/24/04, 4:08 pm


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