Legal Question in Employment Law in Michigan

Can I be passed over for two promotions in which I was more than qualified for w

When I was given the position as receptionist I was told it was only temporary until something else became available. I worked very hard in the position. I saved the company thousands of dollars and was denied a raise. When a position opened up it was said that employees within the company should apply (small company 50 employees). I applied and was told I couldn't have the position because I was in school and may decide to change job fields in a year or two. The person they hired instead is also a student, same age, different color, with abitions outside of the field. Then a few months later it was decided they would hire two assistants for the sales area (I was in school for this field). I was denied an interview over all outside applicants until they were done with the interviews then I was given one. I was denied the position because they said I had made mistakes on a flyer that was sent out (a flyer that I received no input on until after it was completed and it was done in a rush per the CEO's request). I received no raise in over a year and half. The positions have continously came to me for help in their duties, duties I was told I could not perform. Any help in this matter would be appreciated.


Asked on 11/21/02, 4:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

William Morrison Action Defense Center

Re: Can I be passed over for two promotions in which I was more than qualified f

Your management is free to make decisions regarding the placement or promotion of employees even though those decisions were not well thought out or are just plain wrong. Bosses are allowed to make all kinds of poor decisions without fear

that the law will call them to account.

Only when a decision is unlawfully discriminatory i.e. when a deciding factor is an individual's race, sex, age, national origin, etc. can a legal remedy be sought.

If you believe that you have been unlawfully discriminated against, you should speak to a lawyer who will advise you about what you can do and what you should not do to resolve the problem.

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Answered on 11/21/02, 10:11 pm


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