Full question:
I have recently been terminated from my job. I am also currently applying at different locations for a new job. If a perspective employer calls a previous employer in regards to me, what exactly can the prospective employer ask the previous employer and what exactly can the previous employer tell the prospective employer?
- Category: Employment
- Date:
- State: Arkansas
Answer:
Employers can provide information about former employees as long as it is not done with malicious intent. They cannot share confidential information, such as medical records. If the information given is factual and serves a legitimate purpose, the employer is generally protected from defamation lawsuits.
However, if an employer gives false information, especially if it is damaging or accuses the employee of wrongdoing, they could be held liable unless they believed the information was true in good faith. Laws may vary by state, so it's important to consider local regulations.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.