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.

How Can Employers Support Hidden Disabilities in the Workplace?

If you’re reading this article, it’s clear you care about morale in your workplace and the wellbeing of your employees. That’s a great place to start for any work environment. An important factor in fostering a productive work environment is...

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The Difference Between Unfair Termination and Wrongful Termination

Losing a job or having to fire someone is not easy. Maryland is an “at-will” employment state, meaning either the employee or employer can end the relationship at any time and for any reason. While this may seem straightforward, the...

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What Employers Should Know About #MeToo Effects on Sexual Harassment Litigation

The #MeToo movement brought awareness to the problem of sexual abuse and harassment, particularly within the workplace. This social movement opened the door for victims to report incidences of sexual harassment, misconduct, and violence at the hands of their supervisors...

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Religious Discrimination: Employees That Are Part of Religious Organizations May Not Be Protected

You probably already understand that many employers can’t punish an employee just because the employee fits within certain protected characteristics, such as religion, race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age (40 or older under federal law), disability, and genetic information....

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What Employers Should Know About the Wage and Hour Law in Maryland

As an employer, you need to make payroll and you need to pay your employees properly. Balancing these obligations can get complicated, but effectively managing your employees’ regular and overtime hours can go a long way in staying on budget...

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Is It Legal to Fire Someone for Absenteeism?

The most fundamental part of all jobs is showing up to work every day. It is a basic responsibility that no one can dodge. That said, life happens. Family members get sick, last-minute problems come up, and personal crises occur....

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5 Signs That My Boss Is Not Taking My Sexual Harassment Report Seriously

Sexual harassment is no joke, and there is no denying that the effects of sexual harassment are serious and enduring. Yet it is a common complaint of employees that their boss or employer is not taking their sexual harassment report...

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How Employers Can Fight Employee Disability Discrimination in the Workplace

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of 2019, there are 61 million American adults living with disabilities. That equals over a quarter of the U.S. adult population. Employee disability discrimination affects a large portion...

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Ten Policies to Consider When You Review Your Business Employee Policies

Every business with employees needs a set of rules. Business employee policies are guidelines that provide a framework for employees to know how to conduct themselves appropriately while working. Without a comprehensive set of company policies, there is room for...

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What Are the Effects of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

The effects of sexual harassment in the workplace are as harsh as they are long-lasting. Obviously, the victim of sexual harassment suffers the worst effects. These include psychological consequences like depression and repressed anger. The effects of sexual harassment in...

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