Monday, March 24, 2014

J.C. Penney Under Scrutiny for "Fake" Prices

     J.C. Penney is under scrutiny for terminating an employee, Bob Blatchford, who announced on television that J.C. Penney drastically inflates its prices only to discount them to the real selling price, giving its customers the illusion of getting a bargain.

     Two days after appearing on the "Today" show, Blatchford was fired.  J.C. Penney is now going after Blatchford for disclosing trade secrets.

     J.C. Penney is not the only retail giant accused of advertising false bargains.  In 2013, Kohl's was slapped with a class-action lawsuit for violating consumer protection laws in California, which protect consumers from misleading deals.

     J.C. Penney's accused Blatchford of having an "unbalanced vendetta" against the store, and accused him of having a "love for media attention."

     To read the full article, click here.

     If you have a question regarding your employment rights, please contact Ambuter Law for your free case evaluation.

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

What To Do When You're Unemployed

     Just because you're unemployed, whether you're a fresh graduate or a professional, doesn't mean you sit should sedentary.  Below is a list of things you should be doing if you're unemployed.

1) Raise The Red Flag.  The solution to any problem is acknowledging that there is a problem.  If you have interviews lined by but aren't getting the jobs, step back and look at what the main issue may be.

2) Create Your Story.  Most people don't tell prospective employers a personal story.  Tell a prospective employer who you are and what you can bring to the job you are interviewing for.  Tell the employer what makes you = you.  Find a way to bridge your accomplishments into a set of skills that you can tell a prospective employer.

3.  Understand The Job Market.  Make sure to apply to an array of jobs.  What should matter to you is the work you're doing, not just the title.  Also, if you're able to, look at jobs that are in different geographical areas.  Some markets are doing better than others, and the ability to relocate may be appealing to employers.

4.  Build A Routine.  Just because you're unemployed doesn't mean you should sit in bed all day or not have a normal routine.  Make sure to implement a routine rich with activities that will keep you productive and efficient.

5.  Do Things You Love.  If you are passionate about volunteering, campaigning, or fundraising, make sure to stay involved even though you may not be working.  When you do what you love, it doesn't seem like work. 

6.  Network.  Identify contacts in your field and reach out for advice.  Don't ask for a job, but consult with them how to handle multiple situations.  While they may not be able to offer you a job, they may know someone who can.

7.  Polish Your Skills.  Just because you're unemployed doesn't mean you shouldn't always be honing your skills.  Make sure to do participate in activities where you are using your skill set and knowledge on a daily or weekly basis.

8.  Freelancing.  Freelancing is a great option for those who are unemployed.  It gives you the ability to take on a project you may be passionate about, while still making some income while looking for full time work.

9.  Don't Give Up.  Just because it may be tough market, doesn't mean you should throw in the towel and give up.  Keep applying for jobs that interest you and keep honing your skills.  Your hard efforts will pay off.


If you are unemployed and seeking legal counsel, please contact Ambuter Law for your free case evaluation.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Is Your Employer Oscar Worthy?

     Does your employer or company deserve an Oscar for the way they treat their employees?  What makes an employer good?  Here are a few things that people are saying that make their employers great.

1.  They prefer their employees to do quality work as opposed to overloading them with work.
2.  They promote from within, giving their employees the opportunity to progress within the company.
3.  They offer benefits such as healthcare, maternity leave, paid vacation, etc. 
4.  They value their employees as people and individuals, not just as a number in a department.
5.  They encourage open communication, and they welcome feedback from their employees.
6.  They compensate their employees properly for the work that they are doing.
7.  They promote employee development, so that their employees can grow therefore making the company grow.
8.  They promote a work-life balance, so that their employees are happy outside of work and therefore want to perform while they are at work.

So who does the Oscar go to this year?

Ambuter Law is a law firm that focuses on protecting employees' rights throughout Florida.  If you have a question regarding your rights, contact Ambuter Law for a free case evaluation.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Daughter's Facebook Post Cost Family $80,000

     Patrick Snay, 69, was the headmaster of Gulliver Preparatory School in Miami until 2010 when his contract wasn't renewed.  Snarky sued the school for age discrimination, and won an $80,000 settlement 2011.  The agreement contained a standard confidentiality clause, prohibiting either party from discussing the contents of the settlement or the allegations involved.

      However, Snay's daughter made a post on Facebook stating "Mama and Papa Snay won the case against Gulliver," and "Gulliver is now officially paying for my vacation to Europe this summer. SUCK IT."  Snay's daughter was a student at Boston University at the time of the post.

     News of the post made it back to Gulliver's attorneys who appealed the verdict.  The Third District Court of Appeal tossed out the $80,000 settlement earlier this week.  The judge said, "Snay violated the agreement by doing exactly what he had promised not to do.  His daughter then did precisely what the confidentiality agreement was designed to prevent.”

     Snay argued that he needed to tell his daughter about the case and settlement because she suffered emotionally scarring from the whole incident.  However, Snay's chances of winning back his settlement are slim.

If you are the victim of discrimination or have been wrongfully terminated, contact Ambuter Law for your free case evaluation.