Dating in the workplace laws california

Can my employer prohibit me from dating in the workplace?

At least one California court has held that employers are permitted to prohibit some types of workplace dating relationships. Those sorts of relationships may include ones that could impact morale in the workplace, security, or jeopardize supervision (like dating an employee in a subordinate position, which could lead to unfair treatment ).

Can a California employer discipline an employee for off duty conduct?

While California Labor Code 96 (k) provides, simply, that an employer cannot discipline an employee for lawful off-duty conduct, an employer is not generally prohibited from taking disciplinary action if an employee is found guilty of engaging in unlawful conduct during his or her own off-duty time.

When is an employer liable for sexual harassment by a subordinate?

If the relationship goes awry, the subordinate employee may assert a sexual harassment claim and the employer could be liable.

Is it bad to date an employee?

You’ve already got something in common and you can get to know one another quickly. However, employers may have another opinion on the matter. Many employers see the idea of employees dating one another as potentially threatening productivity or even opening up too much liability for the employer.

How do you deal with co-workers dating?

Policies. An employer who is concerned about possible problems arising from co-workers dating could develop an across-the-board no dating policy. Such an anti-fraternization policy could restrict dating or socializing, but defining such relationships can be difficult when employees go out for lunch or drinks together or socialize as a group.

Is it legal to ban romantic relationships in the workplace?

However, even if legal, banning any work romantic involvement can come with its own consequences. Many people meet at work before beginning a romantic relationship. Prohibiting it could decrease morale and could even result in losing employees who wish to date coworkers but cannot. In practical terms, it can be incredibly difficult to enforce, too.