Author: Joyce Smithey

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Articles written by Joyce Smithey

Joyce Smithey, a seasoned employment and labor law attorney, has over 22 years of experience representing both employers and employees in Maryland and D.C. Her practice, rooted in a deep understanding of employment law, spans administrative hearings to federal litigation. Joyce's approach is comprehensive, focusing on protecting client interests while ensuring legal compliance. A Harvard graduate, her career began in Fortune 500 companies, transitioning to law after a degree from Boston University School of Law. Joyce's expertise is recognized by numerous awards, including Maryland’s Top 100 Women. At Smithey Law Group LLC, which she founded in 2018, Joyce continues to champion employment rights, drawing on her rich background in law and business.

Know The Difference Between Workplace Bullying and Sexual Harassment

We all remember the taunts of the schoolyard bully. And certainly, we would all like to forget them! It seems some people simply cannot leave their bullying on the schoolyard. Sometimes, it’s a manager who engages in persistent workplace bullying...

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Can I Sue My Employer for Firing Me Under False Accusations?

You can sue an employer for firing you under false accusations if the termination violates your employment contract, discriminates against protected classes, or is considered retaliatory under labor laws. Document the accusations and seek legal counsel to determine if wrongful...

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What to Do If Your Employer Won’t Reimburse Business Expenses

The transactional relationship between you and an employer should be a simple exchange: Your employer needs to compensate you each time you perform work for it. But what happens when your work obligations incur costs or require you to spend...

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How Do You Prove Breach of Fiduciary Duty?

Trustees, business partners, and corporate officers must act in the best interests of those they represent. Fiduciaries who fail to prioritize beneficiaries' interests may face breach of fiduciary duty lawsuits for damages caused by their actions. An experienced Maryland employment...

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What Is the Average Settlement for a Discrimination Lawsuit?

Each and every one of us is unique. That’s a simple and undeniable truth. No two people anywhere in the world are exactly alike. Though this is true, and though we are all unique in our own ways, we all...

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Can You Be Fired for Taking a Leave of Absence?

Taking care of yourself and your household is not always about the money you bring home from work. Sometimes you need time off to tend to important personal or family matters. If you need this type of break and want...

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How to Explain Wrongful Termination on a Resume or Job Application

A wrongful termination can sting long after the initial shock, especially if you have to rehash the matter while seeking new employment. If you are wondering how to address a wrongful termination on a resume, on a job application, or...

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What Kinds of Behaviors Are Considered Sexual Harassment?

Most people are aware that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace. But in today’s society, there is some confusion about what types of behavior actually constitute sexual abuse and harassment. Obviously, offensive behavior like...

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How to Report an Employer to the Department of Labor

In America, many laws protect employees in the workplace. The law protects workers from many forms of discrimination, unfair wages, workplace hazards, and more. However, it is an unfortunate fact that not all employers follow these laws. Some make mistakes...

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Understanding Constructive Discharge

Employees of both large corporations and small businesses deserve respect and workplace safety. No one should have to endure bullying, harassment, or abuse at work. But sometimes, employees feel forced to resign because workplace abuse and harassment have become so...

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