Is Misgendering a Violation of State or Federal Law?

I recently represented a business entity that was investigated by the New York State Department of Human Rights (DHR) in connection with a trans employee that believed they were being discriminated against after a supervisor “misgendered” them - meaning used the pronoun associated with their assigned gender at birth, rather than their preferred pronoun. This was not a situation where the supervisor intentionally or consistently made the mistake - it was only a few occasions - but the employee pursued a complaint.

We conducted an investigation that included interviews with several employees, the supervisor, and ownership of the business. Our investigation concluded that while there may have been a few instances of misgendering, they were not intentional, persistent, or malicious. The DHR appears to agree with our conclusion, and elected to discontinue the investigation without further consequences for the business.

In an effort to help others with this evolving area of discrimination law, we put together the following - this is not legal advice - only a summary of what misgendering in the workplace means, how to avoid it, and some of the potential scenarios where it may arise.

Misgendering: A Deeper Look into State and Federal Law

Have you ever thought about the impact of calling someone by the wrong gender? What is misgendering, and is it illegal? Let's dive into the complexities of this topic.

What is Misgendering?

Misgendering is the act of referring to someone using terms or pronouns that do not align with their gender identity.

The Emotional Impact

Imagine being called something you're not, day in and day out. It's like wearing shoes that don't fit - uncomfortable and painful. Misgendering can inflict emotional pain, lead to distress, and can even be a form of harassment.

Examples of Misgendering

Calling a trans woman "he" or addressing a non-binary person as "Mr." when they prefer "Mx." are examples of misgendering. Simple mistakes? Perhaps, but they carry weight.

State Laws on Misgendering

Laws around misgendering differ from state to state.

Notable States with Regulations

California, for instance, has laws that can fine businesses for willfully misgendering employees. New York has protections against gender identity discrimination which includes misgendering.

Punishments and Consequences

The consequences? They range from fines to mandatory training, aiming to create a respectful environment.

Federal Laws on Misgendering

Federal laws bring another layer to this intricate issue.

The Title IX Connection

Title IX, originally drafted to prevent sex-based discrimination in educational settings, has evolved. Now, it can be applied to cases of misgendering, viewing it as a form of discrimination.

Workplace Discrimination

Misgendering can be considered workplace discrimination under federal law. That's right! Think twice before addressing a colleague incorrectly.

Misgendering in Public and Private Sectors

Businesses and Corporations

Some big names in the corporate world have policies against misgendering. They're shaping a new era of inclusivity.

Educational Institutions

With the influence of Title IX, many schools are implementing policies to protect students from misgendering.

Common Arguments and Controversies

Of course, there's always another side to the coin.

Freedom of Speech vs. Respect for Identity

Some argue that forcing people to use certain pronouns violates their freedom of speech. But isn't respect for a person's identity just as crucial?

The Thin Line Between Ignorance and Discrimination

Mistakes happen. But when does repeated misgendering move from being a mistake to discrimination? If the alleged misgendering is persistent or intentional, it could be actionable either through a state agency, or a lawsuit.

The Way Forward

Respecting Personal Pronouns

Just like learning someone's name, it's basic courtesy. A little effort goes a long way!

Educating the Public

Awareness and education are keys. The more we know, the better we treat one another, right?

Conclusion

Misgendering can be more than just a mistake; it's a matter of respect and identity. While the legal landscape is still evolving, one thing's for sure: respect and understanding are always the right choice. Intentionally or maliciously misgendering someone in the workplace can have signifiant consequences, especially when it is persistent and could create a hostile work environment.

FAQs

  1. Is it illegal to misgender someone in all states?

    • No, laws differ from state to state.

  2. Can a business be fined for misgendering?

    • In some states, yes. Especially if it's a recurring, intentional act.

  3. Does Title IX specifically mention misgendering?

    • Not directly, but it can be interpreted to cover gender identity discrimination.

  4. Is there a difference between intentional and unintentional misgendering?

    • Legally, yes. But both can be hurtful.

  5. How can one avoid misgendering?

    • Simply ask for pronouns and educate oneself!

The above is informational and should not be construed as legal advice. If you are an employee that has suffered from misgendering, or an employer accused or investigated for an allegation of misgendering, it is crucial to speak to an attorney to determine the best path forward.

Public Officer Law 17 - Basics to Know

What is New York Public Officer Law 17, and What do I do if I get a Letter from the Attorney General about New York Public Officer Law 17?

Introduction to New York Public Officer Law 17

New York Public Officer Law 17 is a crucial piece of legislation that plays an indispensable role in the protection of public officials in New York State. This legislation offers defense and indemnification to public officers when they find themselves in a legal quagmire due to acts they've undertaken while discharging their duties.

The Protective Measures of Law 17

Understanding the scope of protection is paramount. New York Public Officer Law 17 primarily ensures that a public officer is granted defense by the state in any civil action or proceeding arising from any act done while performing their official duties, given these actions were not undertaken with malice or intent to harm.

If you are named in a lawsuit, for acts or omissions committed while a Public Officer (i.e. state employee), the State of New York will defend you, or if there is a conflict of interest, pay for your legal defense. This typically only applies to civil matters, not criminal.

If you are served with a lawsuit relating to your position as a New York State Employee or Public Officer, you must immediately contact the Attorney General’s Office. They will conduct a conflict check and determine whether the Attorney General will represent you, or if you will need to hire a private attorney, paid for by the State of New York, to represent you.

Key Provisions of the Law

  • Indemnification: The state promises to indemnify and save harmless its public officers in case they are personally liable for damages, as a result of any judgment, settlement, or compromise.

  • Defense Provision: If a public officer is subjected to a lawsuit or claims arising from their official duties, the state promises to provide a defense, unless the act was committed with malicious intent.

  • Reimbursement: Should a public officer choose to get their own private counsel, they may be reimbursed for the litigation expenses, given that it's approved by the state.

Deciphering a Letter from the Attorney General

If you've received a letter from the Attorney General concerning New York Public Officer Law 17, it's essential to grasp its implications. Typically, this letter will either inform you of the state's intention to defend you in a legal matter or seek information concerning the incident leading to the legal action.

Steps to Take After Receiving the Letter

  1. Review the Letter Thoroughly: Ensure you understand the content, the context, and the requests or directives.

  2. If the Attorney General’s Office cannot represent you, for example if there is a conflict (eg. the AG is representing your Agency or another Officer), the State will pay for your private attorney.

  3. Contact Sam Breslin: Even if the state offers to defend, it's always wise to consult with a personal attorney to ensure your interests are protected.

  4. Respond Promptly: Delays can complicate matters. Adhere to any deadlines or requests made in the letter.

  5. Cooperate Fully: Provide all necessary documents or information that might help in the defense process.

  6. Stay Updated: Regularly liaise with the Attorney General's office or your private counsel to remain informed on the progress of the defense.

New York Public Officer Law 17 is a protective shield for public officers, ensuring they can execute their duties without the looming fear of undue litigation. This legislation is a testament to the importance of public service and the state's commitment to protecting its officers. However, understanding this law and its provisions is essential, as is knowing the right steps to take when faced with a letter from the Attorney General.

IF YOU RECEIVE A LETTER FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL REGARDING PUBLIC OFFICER LAW 17, CALL SAM BRESLIN TODAY 518-650-3733

Understanding Bicycle Right of Way Laws in New York

Cycling in New York is becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation, for both pleasure and as an affordable and healthy way to commute. As more people take to two wheels, it's essential to be aware of the bicycle right of way laws to ensure everyone's safety. This blog will provide a brief overview of these laws, helping both cyclists and motorists navigate the busy streets of New York with ease and confidence.

General Traffic Laws Apply to Cyclists:

In New York, bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists are expected to obey the same traffic laws as motorists. This includes stopping at red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and following all posted signs and signals. Adhering to these rules is crucial for maintaining a safe and orderly flow of traffic.

The Right of Way at Intersections:

At intersections without traffic signals, cyclists, like motorists, must yield to vehicles already in the intersection. When two cyclists or a cyclist and a motorist arrive simultaneously, the one on the right has the right of way. Cyclists must also yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

Bike Lanes and Shared Lanes:

New York City has an extensive network of bike lanes and shared lanes. When riding in a designated bike lane, cyclists have the right of way over motor vehicles. However, cyclists must still yield to pedestrians and emergency vehicles. In shared lanes, cyclists must ride as close to the right side of the road as possible, except when turning left or avoiding obstacles.

The "Dooring" Law:

Under New York State law, motorists are responsible for checking for cyclists before opening their car doors. This law aims to prevent "dooring" accidents, where a cyclist crashes into an open car door. Motorists who violate this law can face fines and liability for injuries resulting from a dooring incident.

Sidewalk Cycling:

In New York City, it is illegal for anyone aged 13 or older to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk. Children aged 12 and under may ride on the sidewalk, provided their bikes have wheels smaller than 26 inches in diameter. Violators of this law may be subject to fines.

Understanding and respecting bicycle right of way laws in New York is essential for maintaining safety on the streets. Both cyclists and motorists have a shared responsibility to ensure the safe and harmonious coexistence of all road users. By keeping these laws in mind, you can contribute to a safer, healthier, and more enjoyable cycling experience for everyone.

Nineteen Drug Arrests After Fractalfest Music Festival

The Rensselaer County District Attorney and law enforcement recently announced another string of arrests stemming from Fractalfest, a 4-day music festival in Stephentown, New York.  Nineteen individuals were arrested following an investigation into drug distribution at the festival. The New York State Police, together with the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, found cocaine, hallucinogenic mushrooms, doses of LSD, Ketamine, MDMA pills, marijuana and prescription pills being used and sold at Fractalfest. Some festival goers were arrested with gummy candies and lollipops.

Those who were arrested ranged in age from 17 – 60 years old, and hailed from Massachusetts, California, Iowa, and of course, New York State. The Fractalfest attendees who were arrested were charged with one or a combination of: felony drug sale (criminal sale of a controlled substance), felony drug possession (criminal possession of a controlled substance), and misdemeanor drug possession (criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree). These allegations are serious, and require an experienced criminal defense attorney that knows how to handle drug charges in New York State. Unfortunately, this type of arrest is seen at many festivals around New York State.

Popular events around New York such as Electric Zoo, Sterling Stage, Afropunk, and The Meadows, often see criminal possession and criminal sale charges arise from their attendees.

If you, or someone you know, was arrested at Fractalfest or any other music festival or concert this summer, call the Breslin Law Group, PLLC at (518) 650-3766, or submit your case information HERE.  Samuel Breslin handles all levels of drug cases, including criminal sale of a controlled substance (CSCS), criminal possession of a controlled substance (CPCS), unlawful possession of marijuana (UPM), and other felony and misdemeanor level drug offenses. Don’t let a drug charge ruin your chances at college or employment. Contact an Upstate New York Criminal Defense Lawyer Today.

New NY Law Permits Many Citizens to Have Criminal Records Sealed

The New York State Legislature quietly passed a bill, tucked into their state budget, that will allow convicted citizens to petition courts to seal their New York State criminal convictions. Starting October of 2017, this law will allow New Yorkers convicted of crimes like Petit Larceny, Assault, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, among others, to be sealed. Understandably, there are many questions that New Yorkers have about the implications of this new law. What is the procedure to seal your convictions in New York? How long does it take to seal a conviction in New York? Can I seal my misdemeanor or felony conviction?

While New York still does not allow expungement of criminal records (the total erasing of any conviction), this new law allows the court you were convicted in to seal your convictions. Your prior convictions will be unavailable to future employers, allowing more New Yorkers to pursue their dreams, unhindered by long-past criminal records. The New York State Human Rights Law, N.Y. Exec. Law 296(16) was also amended to protect your rights against future employers, by prohibiting employers from asking about, or denying employment/licensing because of a sealed conviction.

While future employers will not be able to see your sealed criminal convictions, your conviction records will remain available to a few “qualified agencies.” Courts, corrections agencies, and law enforcement officers will have access to your full criminal history. Past convictions will live on for the purpose of sentence enhancement or establishing elements of a future crime, since your prior convictions will still appear in fingerprint reports. It’s important to remember that public and private employers, as well as occupational licensing agencies, will not have access to these sealed convictions, and those with sealed criminal convictions in New York will have numerous opportunities available to them with the implementation of this law.

New York Criminal Procedure Law 160.59 will go into effect in October 2017, and courts will be able to seal up to two convictions on a New Yorker’s record. Of these two convictions, only one can be a felony, and neither of the two convictions can be sex offenses, violent felonies, or class-A felonies. If your past conviction is in an applicable category, then you may be eligible to seal your conviction 10 years after the date of conviction or 10 years after your release from prison. 

If you meet the eligibility criteria for a sealed criminal conviction in New York, your criminal conviction sealing lawyer will make an application to the court where you were sentenced. It is possible that a hearing could take place between your criminal defense attorney, an assistant district attorney, and a judge, to determine if your prior convictions should be sealed. The judge at a sealing hearing will consider many factors, which are spelled out in N.Y. Crim Proc. Sec. 160.59(7):

(a)  the amount of time that has elapsed since the defendant’s last conviction;

(b) the circumstances and seriousness of the offense for which the defendant is seeking relief, including whether the arrest charge was not an eligible offense;

(c)  the circumstances and seriousness of any other offenses for which the defendant stands convicted;

(d) the character of the defendant, including any measures that the defendant has taken toward rehabilitation, such as participating in treatment programs, work, or schooling, and participating in community service or other volunteer programs;

 (e)  any statements made by the victim of the offense for which the defendant is seeking relief;

 (f) the impact of sealing the defendant’s record upon his or her rehabilitation and upon his or her successful and productive reentry and reintegration into society; and

 (g)  the impact of sealing the defendant’s record on public safety and upon the public’s confidence in and respect for the law.

The enactment of New York Criminal Procedure Law 160.59 will change the lives of many New Yorkers by sealing past convictions that hinder their future successes.  If you have been a law-abiding citizen, and out of trouble for 10 or more years after your conviction, you shouldn’t let your criminal convictions hold you back from experiencing new opportunities and changing your life. Let The Breslin Law Group guide you through the process to seal your conviction in New York state - click here to contact us today.

What's Next for Tom Brady & Deflategate? Court!

Media outlets around the country are buzzing about the most recent decision in the “deflategate” saga, and I thought it would be helpful to give a quick description of what is actually happening on the legal side, and to compile the relevant documents in one place.

Background

Originally, the NFL hired Ted Wells, a highly-accomplished New York white-collar lawyer, to investigate the allegations that the New England Patriots intentionally deflated footballs. This type of internal investigation is great for white-collar firms, as it requires a lot of manpower, and ultimately has an end: a report. On May 6, 2015, Mr. Wells produced a report titled “Investigative Report Concerning Footballs Used During the AFC Championship Game on January 18, 2015”…since that’s such a mouthful, I’ll go along with everyone else and call it “The Wells Report.” It concluded that it “is our view that it is more probable than not that Tom Brady was at least generally aware of the inappropriate activities of [the ‘deflators’] involving the release of air from Patriots game balls.”  

The Patriots were fined $1 million and were forced to forfeit a 2016 first-round draft pick, and a 2017 fourth-round pick. The Patriots organization did not appeal that decision. In addition to the team penalty, Tom Brady was suspended from the first four games of the coming season. On May 14, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) appealed Brady’s penalty by sending this letter to the NFL.

The appeal was heard by the Commissioner of the NFL himself, Roger Goodell. On June 23, 2015, Goodell heard 10 hours of testimony, and the appeal was concluded. On July 28, 2015, Goodell upheld the four-game suspension, finding that Tom Brady had asked an assistant to destroy his old cell phone.

Prior to publicly issuing the July 28, 2015 decision, the NFL preemptively filed a federal court action seeking to confirm Goodell’s decision. I couldn’t find it elsewhere, so here is the July 28 federal court action filed by the NFL.

What’s Next?

So the NFL preemptively filed a suit to confirm the arbitration decision. The NFLPA has already made clear that it will appeal the decision.

A main purpose of arbitration clauses within Collective Bargaining Agreements ("CBA") is to avoid going to court. Basically, the parties agree that specific disputes will be resolved through arbitration, and as long as all the rules are followed, a court will not interfere. While federal courts don’t like to get involved, they can confirm an arbitration decision, which adds a layer of credibility and enforceability to an arbitrator’s decision. That’s what the NFL is trying to do.

The NFLPA will, at the very least, challenge the NFL’s confirmation action. In addition, the NFLPA could, and probably will, file a separate federal action, in a different court (I would suggest Massachusetts!). That action could ask a court to vacate the arbitration decision, alleging due process violations based on the following grounds:

  • The NFL had no policy that applied to players;
  • The NFL provided no notice of any such policy or potential discipline to players;
  • The NFL resorted to a nebulous standard of "general awareness" to predicate a legally unjustified punishment;
  • The NFL had no procedures in place until two days ago to test air pressure in footballs; and
  • The NFL violated the plain meaning of the collective bargaining agreement.

If a Court agrees with the NFLPA, and finds that the NFL didn't follow the CBA or its own rules, it could vacate the decision which would effectively reverse the four game suspension. 

The next steps will be for the NFLPA to answer the NFL’s complaint, and then either file a separate action, or counterclaim asking the Court to vacate the decision. I’ll try to update with links if anything happens!

 

[UPDATE: The NFLPA filed a Petition to Vacate in Minnesota - here's the filing.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Result on an Albany County DWI Refusal Case

I was delighted to see the following review on AVVO.com from a satisfied Albany County DWI client. Albany County is one of the more challenging places to get a DWI in New York - due to the volume of DWI cases in the Capital District, the District Attorney has established a comprehensive policy for plea bargaining. In virtually all cases, the Assistant District Attorney will fall back on the DA's policy.

For DWI defense lawyers, the DA's policy provides a framework to advise our clients: if the client refused to take a breathalyzer, we can confidently tell them that the DA's policy is for them to take a plea to a misdemeanor common law DWI, or go to trial. Similarly, if the client took the breathalyzer, and blew over a .14, we can point to the DA policy provision that mandates that they plead to the misdemeanor. The DWI policy addresses most circumstances, from repeat offenders to DWI accidents.

In this case, my client had unique circumstances that I presented to the District Attorney's office. They were kind enough to listen, and we were able to negotiate a deal that addressed the client's unique circumstances. Based on the review copied below, the client was pleased with the results.

This was a very rare case, and I have to disclaim that "Prior Results Do Not Guarantee a Similar Outcome."   That said, I always try to take a personal approach to my cases, and in this instance, it worked out. 

Here's the review:

A+ Service. Highly Recommended.

Mr. Breslin is friendly, professional, and was the essence of a zealous advocate in my DWI charge/proceeding. His rate was very reasonable and he was VERY accessible (all of my calls were picked up and all emails that I sent him were answered within the hour).

Before retaining Mr. Breslin I consulted with 6 of the most reputable local DWI attorney's (all of whom gave me a similar assessment of my initial case and chances in court to the assessment that Mr. Breslin gave me). My chances at any sort of reduction of my DWI charge we're slim to none based on the facts of my case. I decided to retain Mr. Breslin because despite giving me the same bleak chances that the other 5 attorney's gave me, Mr. Breslin seemed like the only one who wasn't going to "phone it in", and actually submit vigorous arguments on my behalf, no matter how weak. In other words the choice to retain Mr. Breslin was a personal one, as all attorney's were qualified from a legal perspective.

As you can probably tell by the glowing lead-up in this review, Mr. Breslin negotiated a plea deal on my behalf that, based on, all research I can find, isnt available to anyone else in my situation in the state of New York. This result was achieved all the while keeping me informed and in the loop of all processes and developments along the way. I'm aware that these results aren't typical, and my case does not necessarily mean a similar outcome for future clients, but I was very happy with the services rendered and would retain him again for any criminal matters going forward (hopefully that won't be necessary :) )

New York Crosswalk Laws

On February 12, 2015, a garbage truck struck and killed a four year old in a crosswalk.  This tragic accident on Central Avenue in Albany should be a reminder to everyone to pay attention to pedestrians and crosswalks, and for the police and upstate New York municipalities to crack down on crosswalk violations. 

Having worked in downtown Albany for the past several years, I am consistently astonished by drivers' failure to obey the enormous yellow pedestrian crossing signs. If there is no signal, the pedestrian in a crosswalk ALWAYS has the right of way, and cars MUST yield to allow them to cross. It's that simple. Notwithstanding the law, on a daily basis I see CDTA buses, Albany Police, New York State-registered vehicles, municipal vehicles, and of course everyday drivers ignoring pedestrians in well-marked crosswalks and driving right along. 

I grew up in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. In the late 1990's, there was an enormous crackdown on crosswalks, and it worked. Towns like Lenox, Great Barrington, and Stockbridge became significantly more pedestrian-friendly, and drivers quickly learned to take crosswalks seriously. This has stuck with me, even though I'm a certified New Yorker, and I'm still astonished by local drivers' failure to obey the law - and seriously, when was the last time you saw someone in Upstate New York get pulled over for not yielding to a pedestrian?! 

Like Massachusetts, New York has strict crosswalk laws. In many parts of the Capital District, unfortunately, there appears to be no enforcement. Today (2/13/15), for example, I walked four blocks to grab lunch, using several crosswalks. While trying to cross Pearl Street at a well marked crosswalk, at least fourteen drivers ignored the massive yellow signs before I could cross. No one yielded, or even acknowledged me or the person trying to cross from the other side. 

Drivers that fail to yield the right of way face three points on their licenses, a hefty fine, and a state-mandated surcharge. All said and done, around $300 + 3 points.  Here are the relevant New York Vehicle and Traffic laws (VTL) regarding pedestrians and crosswalks:

  • VTL § 1150. Pedestrians subject to traffic regulations

    • Pedestrians shall be subject to traffic-control signals as provided in section eleven hundred eleven of this title, but at all other places pedestrians shall be accorded the privileges and shall be subject to the restrictions stated in this article.

  • VTL § 1151. Pedestrians' right of way in crosswalks

    • (a) When traffic-control signals are not in place or not in operation the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way, slowing down or stopping if need be to so yield, to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk on the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling, except that any pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overpass has been provided shall yield the right of way to all vehicles.
      (b) No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impractical for the driver to yield.
      (c) Whenever any vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass such stopped vehicle.

  • VTL § 1151-a. Pedestrians' right of way on sidewalks

    • The driver of a vehicle emerging from or entering an alleyway, building, private road or driveway shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian approaching on any sidewalk extending across such alleyway, building entrance, road or driveway.

  • VTL § 1152. Crossing at other than crosswalks

    • (a) Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
      (b) Any pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
      (c) No pedestrian shall cross a roadway intersection diagonally unless authorized by official traffic-control devices; and, when authorized to cross diagonally, pedestrians shall cross only in accordance with the official traffic-control devices pertaining to such crossing movements.

  • VTL § 1156. Pedestrians on roadways

    • (a) Where sidewalks are provided and they may be used with safety it shall be unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway.
      (b) Where sidewalks are not provided any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall when practicable walk only on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic which may approach from the opposite direction. Upon the approach of any vehicle from the opposite direction, such pedestrian shall move as far to the left as is practicable.

If you are injured in a crosswalk, or as a pedestrian under any circumstances, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. Call Sam Breslin at 518-650-3733 or visit www.breslinlawgroup.com