Determining if an individual is an employee of an employer
Griffin v. Sirva Inc., USCA, 2nd Circuit, Docket No. 15-1307
The New York Court of Appeals answered a certified question from the Second Circuit, holding that liability under §296(6) and under §296(15) of the New York State Human Rights Law [NYSHRL] is limited to an aggrieved party's employer.
The New York Court of Appeals then answered a second certified question by identifying the four factors to use in determining whether an entity is an aggrieved party's employer. On the basis of New York case law, the court identified the four factors as follows:
1. The selection and engagement of the employee by the entity;
2. The payment of salary or wages by the entity;
3. The power of dismissal of the individual by the entity; and
4. The entity's power of control over the employee's conduct.
In this case, two individuals had filed suit alleging that Sirva, Inc., as Allied's parent, can be held liable under the NYSHRL for employment discrimination on the basis of the individuals' respective criminal convictions.
Based on the answers to the certified questions by the Court of Appeals, the Second Circuit vacated the district court's grant of summary judgment and remanded the matter for further proceedings.
The decision is posted on the Internet at: