Can an ex-employer legally give a bad reference?

I’m in a new job now, but I’m pretty sure my old boss is giving me a bad reference. He might even be using a group photo of me from my last job (where I had a skin issue) to mess up my rep. Do I have any legal rights here? Not sure what I can really do.

Ugh, that sounds rough! If he’s actually doing that, it feels kinda personal. Have you thought about just asking him to keep things professional?

Storm said:
Ugh, that sounds rough! If he’s actually doing that, it feels kinda personal. Have you thought about just asking him to keep things professional?

Yeah, I left on not-so-great terms, so I doubt he’d be open to it. He’s kinda… narcissistic, if you know what I mean.

Storm said:
Ugh, that sounds rough! If he’s actually doing that, it feels kinda personal. Have you thought about just asking him to keep things professional?

If he’s really a narcissist, confronting him might just make it worse. Maybe document anything you hear about the bad rep?

Hey OP, you might have some options legally. Ever considered mediation? It’s less intense than going to court, but could still get him to stop.

Maxwell said:
Hey OP, you might have some options legally. Ever considered mediation? It’s less intense than going to court, but could still get him to stop.

Mediation sounds interesting… but isn’t that for people already in a lawsuit?

Maxwell said:
Hey OP, you might have some options legally. Ever considered mediation? It’s less intense than going to court, but could still get him to stop.

Not necessarily! Mediation is like an informal sit-down with a neutral person helping resolve issues. It’s worth a shot if you’re trying to avoid a full-blown legal battle.

Just curious, can you actually prove he’s giving you a bad reference? Without proof, it could be tough legally.

Noel said:
Just curious, can you actually prove he’s giving you a bad reference? Without proof, it could be tough legally.

That’s the tricky part… no solid proof. It’s all kinda subtle, just feels like he’s out there smearing me.

Noel said:
Just curious, can you actually prove he’s giving you a bad reference? Without proof, it could be tough legally.

Proof is def important. Maybe keep a log of anything suspicious? Could help if you go the legal route later.

From what I know, if it’s been over six months since you left, it might be harder to do something legally. Have you checked the time limits for filing?

Sullivan said:
From what I know, if it’s been over six months since you left, it might be harder to do something legally. Have you checked the time limits for filing?

Good point, didn’t realize time limits could be a thing here. Guess I should look into that.

Sullivan said:
From what I know, if it’s been over six months since you left, it might be harder to do something legally. Have you checked the time limits for filing?

Yeah, they call it a ‘statute of limitations’ – basically a deadline for starting any legal action. Worth looking up!

If you’re serious about taking action, a lawyer on a ‘contingency fee’ could be useful. Basically, they only get paid if you win.

Zander said:
If you’re serious about taking action, a lawyer on a ‘contingency fee’ could be useful. Basically, they only get paid if you win.

Interesting… sounds kinda fair. At least I wouldn’t be paying upfront.

Zander said:
If you’re serious about taking action, a lawyer on a ‘contingency fee’ could be useful. Basically, they only get paid if you win.

Contingency fee is a good idea if you’re unsure about costs! That way, you don’t lose out if it doesn’t go anywhere.