San Mateo, CA asked in Employment Discrimination, Employment Law and Workers' Compensation for California

Q: Can my employer assign me to do meaningless work while on work restriction?

I've injured my dominant hand and arm at work, (very recent). I am unable to write with my other hand. I was put under restriction from a doctor, stating not to use my hand or arm. Im receiving endless comments from supervisors and managers that I need to learn to use my other hand to write in order to do this job. When i told them I couldn't, I ended up sitting in an office for 8 hours doing absolutely nothing until my scheduled shift was over. And I am going to have to do the same for the rest of the week, while receiving less then what I usually make. If I turn down the "work" I will not be receiving any compensation. Is my employer in their rights? What should I do?

1 Lawyer Answer
Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
Answered
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in California

A: Do they have suitable work and a reasonable accommodation to provide you? More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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