New queries, issue 4318

Right or wrong?

My client runs a small manufacturing business and like many has trouble finding suitable people for employment. One of their employees was recently involved in a fight outside a nightclub and has been charged and is due to appear before the magistrates.

My client is of the opinion that his employee is ‘a good lad’ and from what he says it may well be the case that the employee was in the right place at the wrong time.

The employer has had no problems with him his timekeeping and work is apparently exceptionally good and the employer sees him as a long-term employee and wants to encourage his career development.

My client has no children and with one eye on the future he is keen to enthuse and retain a close team of employees who might...