How can I handle false accusations in a formal write up from my employer?
I have been falsely accused of behavioral issues such as insubordination, raising my voice, arguing, disobeying company regulations and refusing to take orders. Not one of these accusations is true and I have emails providing proof for myself as well as emails from my manager denying me any kind of meeting with HR to resolve this. I refused to sign the write up. Do I have any kind of case? I feel I am being bullied at work by my manager.
Not likely
I am sorry to hear about these false allegations. Unfortunately, your "proof" is largely irrelevant, since employers are free to base adverse employment action on untrue facts, regardless of whether a writeup is ever signed.
Unless you are omitting relevant information, you have no legal recourse under the circumstances. If you value your job, your best option is to do whatever you can to repair the relationship with your employer. A tactful and restrained rebuttal to these false allegations would not necessarily be inconsistent with such approach, but be mindful of how vigorously you defend yourself, as that may cause irreparable damage if your employer regards it as a direct challenge of their authority.
Good luck.
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This answer is a general interpretation of the law and is not fact specific to your case. Likewise it does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should seek an attorney for a review of your specific facts and documents. http://www.johnphillipslaw.com
Mr. Kased's advice is good as far as documenting that you dispute the accusations. Be aware, however, that unless there is an applicable contract or collective bargaining agreement, most private employment in California is "at will". This means you can be terminated for any reason, or no reason at all, at any time so long as it isn't based on discriminatory reasons (i.e. because of race, sex, national origin or another protected classification), or your having engaged in a protected activity. Therefore, being “at will” means that the employer is not required to provide advance notice of a termination decision and is not required to justify the decision with “good cause.” So, you don't really have a case notwithstanding your view that you are being "bullied" by your manager and your conduct could result in discipline or termination and you may not have any recourse. Based on that, you might want to make every effort to conform your conduct and behavior to the expectations of your employer... Best of luck to you...
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Submit a written rebuttal to the write-up as soon as possible. This is step one. If you believe the corrective action taken against you is unlawful for some reason, consult with an employment attorney about your options going forward. Also, are you able to reach out to HR directly? Does your company have a hotline you can contact to report your concerns? If these avenues are available, use them. Good luck!
This answer is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as specific legal advice or intended to establish an attorney-client relationship.
I would also classify this as an employment question so you get advice from employment lawyers.
You should ask that your personnel file be noted that you dispute what they're saying about you.
If you feel this is motivated by your status as a protected class (minority, etc.) you may have a case, but that's not clear from your question. All the best.