When it comes to defending a workplace lawsuit, strong written policies with signed acknowledgements from your employees will go a long way. Another important element of being prepared is documenting employee problems and corrective actions. Even though it seems like common sense to fire an employee who repeatedly performs badly, you shouldn’t get too comfortable with “at will” employment. The doctrine (in most states) dictates an employer or employee can terminate employment at any time, with or without notice and with or without cause. If you follow this practice, you don’t even need a reason to let someone go, let alone documentation, but it won’t sit well with a judge and jury.
