“If there’s not a policy in place you can go to someone in management that you think could do something about the discrimination and ask for help.” attorney Teri Mastando Click to see the original article on AL.com By Anna Claire Vollers | avollers@al.com Pregnancy-related discrimination is illegal, but it still happens. And sometimes, employers who discriminate aren’t held accountable unless the employee threatens legal action. We spoke with Teri Mastando, a Huntsville attorney who … [Read more...]
About Teri Mastando
Alabama first-grader sexually assaulted at school, lawsuit claims
“Schools have a responsibility to protect its students and to immediately inform parents when serious issues arise. That did not happen here, so we are proud to represent this family.” Attorney Eric Artrip Click to see the original article By Trisha Powell Crain | tcrain@al.com A group of first-grade girls sexually assaulted a first-grade female classmate on the playground and in the restroom at an elementary school in Hoover, Ala., according to a federal lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges … [Read more...]
Next Lawyer Up with Ron Sykstus featuring Teri Mastando
Teri is a guest on Next Lawyer Up podcast discussing her background, workplace discrimination and sexual harassment. Click the link below to listen to Teri Mastando's podcast interview with attorney colleague Hon. Ron Sykstus, recorded in Huntsville, Alabama on 1/22/2018. https://www.bondnbotes.com/2018/01/22/ep-27-teri-mastando/ … [Read more...]
Pregnancy Discrimination is Still Discrimination
About 70% of women in the U.S. will become pregnant at some point in their lives; many will work for some period during their pregnancy. Luckily, pregnant women have rights in the workplace. Pregnancy is a protected condition the same as a person’s age, race, gender, or disability. The Pregnancy Discrimination in Employment Act pregnancy discrimination involves treating a woman (an applicant or employee) unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to pregnancy … [Read more...]
What to Do about Workplace Sexual Harassment
It’s a sad fact that sexual harassment is still rampant in workplaces in this day and age, whether white or blue collar-office, retail, glamorous Hollywood, or physical labor. Harvey Weinstein and the overwhelming number of accusations of sexual harassment in the movie industry make it clear that it happens in the workplace. Staggering numbers of emboldened women are telling their sexual harassment and abuse stories on social media. These #metoo posts, started by actor Alyssa Milano, are … [Read more...]
Pregnancy Discrimination is a form of Sex Discrimination
Question: Can my employer make me lift when my doctor says I cannot lift anything over 20 pounds during the first three months of my pregnancy? I am pregnant and my doctor immediately tells me I should not be lifting more than 20 pounds during the first 3 months of my pregnancy. My job does involve some lifting. What are my rights? Does my employer have a legal obligation to modify my job or to find me another position at the company? Can I be fired if I refuse to lift and put my unborn … [Read more...]
Everything You Need to Know About the False Claims Act
In Tony Mastando's presentation you'll learn the technical aspects you need to know about the False Claims Act. We've also included this simplified and helpful PSA video from TAF Education Fund to give you all the information you need about whistle blowing and your protections under the False Claims Act. Symposium Presentation On False Claims The North Alabama Chapter of the Federal Bar Association holds an annual symposium to increase awareness about legal issues in military defense … [Read more...]
Initial Reaction to School Board Press Conference of September 23, 2014
The Plaintiff and her attorneys are disappointed with the statements made earlier today by the Madison County Board of Education. The Board stated how hurtful the media reports have been to the administrators involved and to the Madison County School system, but did not accept responsibility for the failed policies that caused this tragic situation. The Board’s policy that no harasser would be punished unless he was “caught in the act,” created the very situation that allowed a boy, with a … [Read more...]
Protecting Our Girls In Public Schools
Sexual harassment is a very real problem in our workplace and in our schools. I know that my 20-year career as an employment law attorney representing victims of sexual harassment was born in high school where a popular athlete repeatedly propositioned me in an insulting sexual manner and touched me inappropriately when I wasn't paying attention. He was violent - purposely running into me in the hall and slamming me into the wall. He was large, I was and am very small. My locker was below … [Read more...]
What Should You Do In A Hostile Work Environment?
What is a Hostile Work Environment? A hostile work environment means miserable, unproductive employees. Harassment can be oral and/or physical, often involving rude behavior, unwanted advances or inappropriate touching. To be considered “hostile” the situation must be so difficult in your workplace that it substantially affects your ability to do your job. It can also be illegal. Most companies have specific policies prohibiting harassment in the workplace for any reason. A good … [Read more...]
