Worried About How a Family FIR Might Affect Your Private Sector Job? Let's Discuss!

My relative/neighbor has filed an FIR against me and my family under sections 323, 504, 506, 143, 147, and 149, and the matter is currently under trial in court. The dispute arose when my father and uncle had a minor altercation with our relative-cum-neighbors over rainwater. Although my cousins and I were present at the scene, we were not involved in the quarrel; however, our names were also included in the FIR.

All of us are employed in the private sector. I am concerned about whether this legal issue will have any impact on our careers or jobs.

Thank you.

Not likely at this point. I hope and trust that you are on bail now. You can inform the employer about the matter. In such matters, ultimately the case will get resolved or get dismissed, but if you are convicted, it will be a little serious.

Yes, we all got anticipatory bail. I am working in an MNC, but I have not informed my employer about this pending case due to fear. Should I inform them, or should I wait until it comes to their notice?

Please check informally what the organization's attitude is towards such events, and you can make a decision based on the possibilities. At this stage, you are already on bail, and there is no finding of guilt against you. So, there is no need to unduly worry about it. You can consult with your advocate regarding the possibilities of being discharged from the case. If your advocate advises, you may even consider trying your chances under Section 482 of the CrPC in the High Court if you are not successful in the Sessions Court.

Does anyone know what actions my employer can take in this case? The employer is a big MNC IT company from Pune.

Dear Colleague, mere filing of a court case does not mean you are found guilty of the alleged offenses. It does not reflect on you until you are adjudged guilty. I think you should maintain your cool and wait for the outcome. Court cases can drag on, and I don't advise you to disclose this to your company for the time being.

Practical wisdom lies in thinking of crossing the bridge when you come to it.

Regards,
Vinayak Nagarkar HR and Employee Relations Consultant

Handling Employer Reactions to Legal Issues

What would happen if my employer found out about this matter? How should I handle that situation? Will they take any disciplinary action against me, like suspension or termination? If anyone knows or has experienced such an incident, please share your thoughts. Much appreciated!

Hi Vinayak, when should I inform my employer about a pending case, and what will be the consequences of that? Your reply is much appreciated!

Dear colleague, I believe it would be better to wait until the case progresses to a point where some assessment of the outcome becomes possible. Of course, nothing can be predicted with certainty about a court case, and you may have to choose the right time to inform your employer based on your well-reasoned judgment. For an outsider, it is difficult to figure out the right time to tell your employer.

Regards,

Vinayak Nagarkar HR and Employee Relations Consultant