Warn an employee about unacceptable conduct: Employee Warning Notice

An Employee Warning Notice is a letter used to notify an employee about underperformance or unacceptable conduct in the workplace. Employee Warning Notices are a best practice in human resources that help protect employers from future disputes.

Essentially, an Employee Warning Notice informs an employee of the issue and the business's standards, and outlines steps the employee must take and a timeframe to correct the situation. It's recommended to back up the letter with other documentation, such as attendance records, performance reviews, and relevant employment policies. This documentation can serve as proof of poor performance if termination becomes necessary.

If you're facing a difficult decision about an employee, providing ample, written warning through an Employee Warning Notice can help prevent labor disputes or lawsuits if termination becomes necessary.

• You want to officially warn an employee about attendance, performance, behavior or other issues that must be addressed.
• You want to document issues you have had with an employee in case questions about the employee's performance or behavior come up at a later date.

Whether you're preparing your Employee Warning Notice, reviewing one someone sent you, or just want to understand it better, here's how to get help.

• Understand what it says or review it. Use our AI legal assistant to ask questions about your Employee Warning Notice, understand what it says, and spot anything that may need a closer look.
• Ask an attorney a question. Connect with an attorney for legal information, with a written answer within one business day or a live consultation.
• Get advice on what to do. For privileged, confidential advice about your specific circumstances and next steps, book a Legal Advice Session with an attorney.