Worried About Covid-19 And Work? 4 Signs You Need To Speak To An Employment Attorney

If you're like most people, Covid-19 has affected your life in one way or another. Some people have only been affected by the inconvenience the pandemic has created. Others have been affected by serious illness. But, there's another group who have had their employment adversely affected by the virus. According to one report, over 20 million people in the US have lost their jobs due to Covid-19. Others have been wrongly targeted in the workplace due to Covid-19. If you're one of those people, you may be able to file a legal action against your employer. Take a look at the list provided below. If any of these situations apply to you, contact an employment attorney right away. 

Your Covid-19 Status Was Shared

If you tested positive for Covid-19, you still have the right to privacy. A positive test result does not give your employer the right to divulge that information. If your employer has shared your Covid-19 status with others, speak to an attorney as soon as possible. It's important to note that your employer doesn't have the right to share a negative test result either. Once your employer has that information, they can let people know that someone in the office has tested positive. But, they can't divulge the identity of the person. 

You've Been Singled Out for Testing

During the current pandemic, your employer has the legal right to require Covid-19 testing for all employees, especially those who will be in the office. They also have the legal right to require specific groups to undergo testing. This might be requested for employees that are at a greater risk of infection. But, they don't have the right to single out individuals based on arbitrary rules. If you've been singled out for testing, talk to an employment attorney as soon as possible. You may be the victim of employment discrimination. 

You've Been Asked About Your Family

If you have a family, they have the right to privacy, as well. That means your employer can't ask about their Covid-19 status. Employers may try to obtain this information as a way to prevent the spread of Covid-19. But, they're not allowed to ask you about family members, especially where their health is concerned. If your employer has asked you about the health status of your family members, seek legal counsel. 

Your Employment Was Terminated After Leave

Finally, if you were fired after returning from family leave, you need to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Under the Family and Medical Leave Act — FMLA — employers must provide protected leave for families with medical emergencies, such as Covid-19. If you were fired for taking leave under FMLA, it's time to talk to an employment attorney.

Reach out to an employment lawyer today for more information.

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