Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience.
Q:
Is there a difference between adverse actions and disciplinary actions? Do the Douglas factors apply to both areas?
A:
An adverse action is one that is covered by statute. For example, any suspension, demotion or removal is an adverse action. Some agencies and union contracts distinguish between adverse actions as more serious and disciplinary as more minor. Otherwise, a disciplinary action can include more serious adverse actions and less serious discipline such as a letter of reprisal.
Bill Bransford is managing partner of Shaw Bransford & Roth PC.
Disclaimer: Ask a Lawyer publishes information on this website for informational purposes only. Information on this website is intended – but not promised, guaranteed, or warranted – to reflect correct, complete and current developments. In addition, the contents of the website do not constitute legal advice and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the attorney. Information from this website is not intended to be used as a substitute for specific legal advice, nor should you consider it as such. You should not act, or refrain from acting, based on information on this website without seeking specific legal advice about your particular circumstances. No attorney-client relationship between you and Ask a Lawyer’s author is created by the transmission of information to or from this site.
