HR and Jail
Do you do what you’re told? If something seems wrong, do you question it? When the group you’re working in (the C-Suite, human resources, a particular department) is about to go along with something questionable, perhaps unethical, even worse, unlawful, do you say anything or do anything–or are you a person of inaction?
These questions arise as a result of a senior HR professional who got caught up in the stock-option backdating mess a couple of years ago, was convicted of a crime last year, and was sentenced to jail last week. (Click here for more.)
In arguing that the HR professional shouldn’t be sentenced to any jail time, her lawyer described her main transgression as one of inaction. The judge was unconvinced and had some relatively harsh words for the HR professional.
This gives us plenty of food for thought. When you’re part of a group, it’s hard to say no when everyone else in the group is saying yes. As indicated by this case, it may be hard to say no, but if the group is about to cross a criminal line, you better say no, or you cross the line with everyone else.
About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
Read more about Larry Bridgesmith