Brad Pinta Speaks at Rotary 2-17-15

Tory DeFazio introduced guest speaker Brad Pinta. Brad gave a fascinating presentation, an insider’s view of how to terminate an employee within the state’s legal rights. He presented many real-life experiences from his perspective as a trial lawyer. With a handout he guided us through thirteen important checkpoints and urged us to keep it handy. Rule #1 is to be educated to hire someone you can keep and not fire! Checkpoints included: keeping an accurate, consistent and current personnel file; discussing the process with owners; selecting an appropriate time for the separation; having a professional witness present; providing a clear reason for the termination; documenting the termination; providing a final and complete pay check; advising the employee about termination rights; informing the terminated of unemployment assistance; retrieving all company equipment, records, etc. from the employee; keeping the aspects of the termination confidential; arranging an exit interview if possible, and investigating whether a severance package is necessary. Brad’s presentation was followed by

many interested questions.