Adverse Employment Action

/ˈædvɜːrs ɪmˈplɔɪmənt ˈækʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An action taken by an employer that negatively affects an employee's job status or conditions, such as termination, demotion, or harassment, often relevant in discrimination and retaliation claims.
    The plaintiff claimed she was subjected to an adverse employment action after being unfairly demoted.

Forms

  • adverse employment action
  • adverse employment actions

Commentary

Typically used in employment law to identify employer conduct triggering legal scrutiny, especially under statutes like Title VII; precise examples and thresholds can vary by jurisdiction.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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