Information on workers rights during Coronavirus including workers protections. … [Read more...]
Small business owner sues landlord over lease, citing possible COVID-19 exposure
“There is a provision in the lease that releases the tenant if the premises are rendered unusable. The shutdown of her business by the state, and (the landlord) being careless and coming in with COVID and exposing her employees effected destruction under terms of the lease, because she can’t use the premises now.” attorney Teri Mastando Click to see the original article on AL.com The owners of an Alabama yoga studio have sued their landlord to get out of their lease, citing potential … [Read more...]
Madison City Police, schools didn’t believe James Clemens student’s claims of abuse
"We really want to shed light and protect girls in our schools. There are laws out there that help, like Title IX, which we’ve sued under in this case, that help protect (females) from sexual harassment and assault." attorney Teri Mastando Click to see the original article on WAAY 31 By: Sophia Borrelli WAAY 31 has learned new details in a sexual harassment lawsuit against a Madison City School teacher and the school district’s superintendent. The attorney for the unnamed teen who … [Read more...]
What to do if you think you’re a victim of pregnancy discrimination
“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...]
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...]