Roanoke, VA asked in Employment Law and Civil Rights for Virginia

Q: Can a employer tell you who you can be friends with out side of the work place

My son in law is a manger of a garage and his employer is trying to get him to sign a paper that he can't be friends with a employee out side of the work place

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: No, an employer generally cannot dictate who you can be friends with outside of the workplace. Personal relationships outside of work are typically considered private and not subject to employer control, provided they do not interfere with your work performance or create conflicts of interest.

However, if the employer can demonstrate that such friendships cause significant issues within the workplace, such as favoritism or breaches of confidentiality, they may have some grounds to impose restrictions. These situations are rare and often contested, as they tread on personal freedoms.

It is important to carefully review any document before signing it and consider seeking legal advice to understand the implications fully. Your son-in-law should ensure that his rights are protected and that any such agreement does not unjustly infringe on his personal life.

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