Microaggressions are seemingly small, subtle instances of bias or prejudice, usually in the form of comments, jokes, or questions. While not as easily identifiable as blatant instances of racism, microaggressions can still be just as psychologically damaging,...
Austin Employment Law Blog
Wrongful termination in an at-will employment state
Under state law, employment in Texas is "at-will," giving both the employer and the employee the right to terminate their working relationship, with or without reason and with or without notice, at any time. You may believe that this prevents you from bringing a...
FMLA job protections for expecting parents
From prenatal appointments to the frantic first weeks of life with a newborn, time is one thing parents never seem to have enough of. Balancing work and family obligations is often stressful, especially when mom and dad worry that taking time off may put their jobs at...
How do you talk to your boss about your diabetes?
Managing diabetes at your Texas workplace can be a challenge. It is not an insurmountable task, but it may not be something that you can accomplish alone. Often, you will have to ask for the help and support of your employer and/or supervisor to successfully manage...
Understanding reasonable disability accommodations
Workers with disabilities receive protection from employment discrimination through federal and state laws such as the Americans With Disabilities Act. Under these laws, certain employers must make reasonable accommodations so these workers can perform successfully...
When refusal to reimburse expenses becomes illegal
There may be times when an employee makes out-of-pocket purchases related to work. In some states, the employer is required to pay back the employee for the expenses. However, the Texas Workforce Commission explains that in the Lone Star State, the law favors...
Constructive discharge may be retaliation
An employer cannot retaliate against an employee in Texas if the employee files a discrimination claim. However, according to the Texas Workforce Commission, if the employee voluntarily leaves the company, it indicates that he or she has control over the separation...
Your right to file a whistleblower retaliation claim
You knew it was the right thing to do, reporting your Texas employer for an illegal activity. However, since then, your work life has been difficult, to say the least. At the Law Offices of Kell A. Simon, we recognize the issues that employees may face in...
What workers should know about sexual harassment
Many employees in Texas may dread going to work each day because of the unwelcome sexual behaviors or comments of a boss, co-worker, client or someone else they must work with. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act...
What makes a Texas non-compete agreement enforceable?
If your Texas employer wants you to sign a non-compete agreement, it is important for you to take this document seriously. Failing to abide by the terms could land you in court. However, if the terms of the agreement are unreasonable, it may be that the judge will...

