Salt Lake City Privacy in the Workplace
Working to Balance Business Interests and Privacy Concerns
Many people see the right to privacy as a fundamental right in America. There are many situations in the workplace, however, that cause employees to feel like this right is violated. Whether you are an employee who feels like your privacy or the confidentiality of your personal information has been violated, or an employer being accused of invading an employee's privacy, call a lawyer who knows both sides of the issue.
Attorney Andrew W. Stavros has been representing Salt Lake City, Utah-based clients and others for more than 10 years. At Stavros Law, we will use this experience to evaluate the value of your case and to negotiate or litigate efficiently and effectively. Contact us today.
Is There a Reasonable Expectation of Privacy at Work?
Workplace privacy cases involve balancing the employee's right to a reasonable expectation of privacy and the employer's need to monitor employees for efficiency, safety, quality control, and other purposes. Generally speaking, employers retain the right to monitor and search the workspaces of employees, but it is possible for employers to go too far and violate the privacy of their employees. Although everyone has a right to a certain amount of privacy at all times, the level of privacy someone can legitimately expect to receive fluctuates based on changing circumstances.
We understand what the court looks for when balancing the employee's right to privacy against the employer's need to keep track of what's happening on the job. These cases are very fact-specific and may depend heavily on any written policies your employer has implemented.
What You Should Know
- Employers: You should let your employees know whenever you are going to do something to impede their privacy. You do have certain rights to monitor and observe what your employees are doing, but you should be aware that the more invasive the monitoring is, the more likely it is that a court would have problems with it. More importantly, never violate confidentiality with an employee's personal information or use deception, and never intrude in your employees' life outside of work.
- Employees: Your right to privacy is very limited in the workplace compared to your rights at home. Many employers have limited rights to administer drug tests, to monitor e-mails and Internet activity, and in certain situations to monitor some voice mail and phone calls. Inquire about your employer's policies in this regard, and use common sense with your workplace communications.
Contact Us at 801-428-0719
We strive to provide direction and deliver results to our Salt Lake City, Utah, clients. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Written by the Office of Stavros Law, P.C.
