The Right to Quit - A New York Employees Most Powerful Right
We get a regular stream of calls from unhappy employees relating stories of unfairness, abuse and misery. People want to know what they can do about their abusive and unfair bosses. Employee rights are limited and only prohibit employment discrimination, sexual harassment and the like. Unless you are subject to discrimination or racial or sexual harassment, your best recourse may be quitting your job.
In New York, there is no legal code of conduct that regulates the work place. Only the most horrible and despicable conduct is illegal. Everyday abuse and unfairness is not illegal. A boss can be rude, obnoxious, and grossly unfair and it is all legal. You cannot force a company or a boss to be fair and professional. Unless the company is willing to change, your only option is to find another job. This is a misunderstood concept. There is a misconception out there that employees have a right to fairness or the right to be treated with respect. No such right exists.
Just as there is no law that prohibits rude and unfair conduct at work, there is no law that requires a person to put up with it. Employees are free to leave at any time and for any reason. No notice is required.
The reality is that most employees feel trapped by economic pressure. They need the pay check so they put up with abuse and unfairness. Even if a paycheck is needed, your best bet is often to focus your efforts on finding a new job.
