Pittston, PA asked in Civil Rights and Education Law for Pennsylvania

Q: can i take action against my high school

I graduated in 06. Background checks for jobs keep returning to me saying they are claiming i didn't graduate. i have a copy of the diploma. when anyone calls the school they say i didn't graduate. It keeps getting harder and harder to advance my career as employers keep thinking i didn't graduate high school.

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Civil Rights Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In Pennsylvania, if your high school is incorrectly informing background check agencies or potential employers that you did not graduate, despite you having a diploma, you may have grounds to take action. This misinformation could be considered a form of defamation or negligence, especially if it is harming your career prospects.

The first step would be to contact the school directly. Present your copy of the diploma and request that they correct their records. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you might consider sending a formal letter, possibly through an attorney, which outlines the problem and the potential consequences for you.

If these steps don't lead to a correction, legal action may be an option. This could involve filing a lawsuit for defamation or negligence, as the school's incorrect information is directly impacting your ability to gain employment.

Consulting with an attorney who has experience in education law or defamation would be advisable. They can help assess the strength of your case, guide you through the process of rectifying the situation with the school, and, if necessary, assist in taking legal action to protect your rights and reputation. Remember, it's important to act promptly to mitigate the ongoing impact on your career.

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