Flower Mound, TX asked in Employment Law, Sexual Harassment and Criminal Law for Texas

Q: sexually assaulted by a franchise owner. Corp investigated & found evidence but I have seen no disciplinary action.

I’m told franchisee must exit the system but i have seen no action. What do I do next? What should I expect? What’s a typical outcome? I’m a corporate employee/the assualter is a restaurant franchise owner. How do I trust anything has been done? I have been waiting months after the official investigation for finality, I still dont have it.

1 Lawyer Answer
Derek Allen Colvin
Derek Allen Colvin
Answered

A: Sorry to hear about what happened to you. This sounds like a difficult issue for you and your employer to navigate. You should talk to a local attorney about your rights and any remedies that may have available to you. Sexual assault is also a crime that should not be taken lightly. If the franchisor wants to kick the franchisee out, that is completed by terminating the franchise agreement. This can be unilateral or mutual, but can depend on the grounds for termination outlined in the franchise agreement. It can also depend on state law. In a case like this, I'd expect the franchise owner to fight back and it can be a slow process. The franchisor must balance a lot of complex issues. They likely want to keep you safe, protect the brand, etc. Some steps may come immediately, but others can take time. The facts are different in every case, so there is no typical outcome. Speaking with an attorney in your area about your specific facts may help.

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