====== Know Your Rights: The Just Cause Shield ======

Under our **Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) Article 16.1**, management must have **"Just Cause"** before issuing any discipline. 

Use the following checklist to evaluate any disciplinary action or "Performance Improvement Plan" (PIP):

^ Test ^ Member Checklist ^
| **1. Notice** | Did management give you a clear warning of the consequences of your conduct before taking action? |
| **2. Reasonable Rules** | Is the rule or expectation related to the safe and efficient operation of the library? |
| **3. Investigation** | Did the employer conduct a fair and objective investigation before deciding to discipline? |
| **4. Proof** | Did the investigation produce substantial evidence or "receipts" (emails, logs, timestamps)? |
| **5. Equal Treatment** | Are the rules and penalties applied even-handedly to all employees? |
| **6. Proportionality** | Does the "punishment fit the crime" given your record and years of service? |



===== Tips for Success: Protecting Your Career =====

The best defense is a proactive offense. Use these daily habits to protect your professional record:

  * **Maintain a Personal Work Log:** Keep a daily record of tasks, project updates, and management instructions on a **personal device**.
  * **The Follow-Up Email:** If a supervisor gives you a verbal instruction that contradicts a previous plan, send a "Clarification Email" immediately.
  * **Save Everything:** Keep copies of your performance appraisals and positive feedback. Management cannot ignore a record of success.