Central Washington University Apex vs Marcie Case Study

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YOU BE THE JUDGEWRITING PROBLEM Apex gave Marcie an employ-ment handbook stating that (1) she was an at-will employee, (2) the handbook did not create any contractual rights, and (3) employees who were fired had the right to a termination hearing. The company fired Marcie, claiming that she had falsified delivery records. She said that Apex was retaliating against her because she had complained of sexual harassment. Apex refused her request for a termina-tion hearing. Did the employee handbook create a contract guaranteeing Marcie a hearing? Argument for Apex: The handbook could not have been clearer—it did not create a contract. Marcie is an employee at will and is not entitled to a hearing. Argument for Marcie: Apex intended that employees would rely on the handbook. The company used promises of a hearing to attract and retain good employees. Marcie was entitled to a hearing.

Analyze the case. Provide a verdict.