What Constitute a “Hostile Work Environment” or “Hostile Workplace?” Aaron Morris, Esq. I get more and more calls every week from employees wanting to sue for being exposed to a “hostile work environment.”  As I discuss the matter with them, it becomes clear that they have heard the buzz words “hostile work environment” or “hostile workplace” but have no understanding of the legal basis.  They believe that hostility in the workplace has somehow become illegal and actionable.  I even receive calls from employees who want to sue because they are being asked to work harder, and they feel that is  [ Read More ]

Con Ed: It’s not right to risk New Yorkers’ health just to turn up the heat on workers. End the lockout and keep the city cool. In the midst of a crushing heat wave, Con Ed has locked out 8000 workers who should be on the job maintaining the power system so the AC can stay on, just when it’s needed most. Management broke off contract negotiations when workers wouldn’t agree to steep cuts in pensions and healthcare. Con Ed is putting New Yorkers at risk for a blackout, just to slash workers’ benefits. Not cool. Heat waves like this  [ Read More ]

A hostile work environment exists when an employee experiences workplace harassment and fears going to work because of the offensive, intimidating, or oppressive atmosphere generated by the harasser. A hostile work environment may also be created when management acts in a manner designed to make an employee quit in retaliation for some action. For example, if an employee reported safety violations at work, was injured, attempted to join a union, or in some way caused trouble for the management, then their response might be to harass and pressure the employee to quit. Actions that could be taken in furtherance of  [ Read More ]