What is Your Expectation of Privacy in the Workplace?

Recently the U.S. Supreme Court was asked to determine if an employee has the right to prevent an employer from viewing the employee's text messages sent or received on an employer-issued pager. Here is an article discussing the case. It is fair to say most people (from low-level employees to corporate executives) have sent or received personal correspondence during work, whether it was a telephone call, email, fax, or text message. When you sent or received that correspondence, what was your expectation of privacy? Does your answer change if your employer provides you a written policy stating your employer may record and view all correspondence sent or received on company-owned property? How do you think the U.S. Supreme Court will decide? Post your comments and answers below. We will continue to track this case and see how your responses correspond with the Supreme Court's decision.

New Year - New Formatting

As we approach 2010 we thought it appropriate to add a new component to the Blog. We started the Blog as a vehicle to promote communication between the Firm and you, our readers. Periodically we will pose employment-related questions regarding current issues in the news or work place. Feel free to provide your thoughts and comments. We would like to hear what you have to say.

Coles Corner Winning Wine: December 2009 (Archive)

December 2009: Gauge Wines 2007 20 Gauge Chard. This surprisingly smooth chardonnay opens with delicate nots of sweet melon. Slight hints of the classic buttery chardonnay remain but this doesn't taste like a classic chardonnay. Although you might associate this wine with warmer months, try 20 Gauge if you're shooting for a crowd pleaser this holiday season.

HR Isn't All Bad - The Personal Side of Personnel

Human Resources often is saddled with many unenviable tasks, with the two main culprits disciplining and terminating. As employment lawyers, unfortunately, we usually only interact with Human Resources regarding these unenviable tasks. It seems appropriate as the year winds down and the holiday season approaches to remember all the beneficial and seldom-recognized tasks Human Resources provides to employees and the company as a whole. So if you are in Human Resources and feeling overwhelmed by your unenviable tasks, an executive tired from continually dotting your "i's" and crossing your "t's," or an employee worn out from all the protocols and procedures, remember HR . . .

H onors employees for their years of commitment to the company.

U nites employees and management in a common goal.

M aintains valuable documents and files.

A ssists with new hire orientation and company retreats.

N urtures during difficult times.

R ecognizes employees for outstanding work.

E ncourages teamwork and dedication.

S upports employees throughout their tenure.

O rganizes company events and parties.

U mpires employee disputes.

R esponds to inquiries regarding benefits, job openings, and payroll.

C ounsels employees regarding any and all aspects of their job.

E xplains company policies and procedures.

S erves the company with unwavering enthusiasm.

While this list describes only a small fraction of the services HR provides, the list illustrates all the positive benefits HR provides employees, managers, and the company as a whole. Human Resources is the backbone of any company, so take some time this holiday season to say thanks.