Nepotism

Nepotism is a favoritism that is based on kinship. Nepotism is usually seen to be a negative practice because it implies that the person getting the job, promotion, college admittance, or property is usually not otherwise qualified enough to have it. There are no uniform laws regarding nepotism, but there are many different ways to approach a legal case where nepotism is suspected.

Nepotism can take place in politics where a person with a political position either passes on their position or gets employment for a member of their family. Laws regarding political nepotism vary from state to state. Another type of nepotism that occurs is within the educational system, when a family member is admitted on the basis of their family’s history at the school applied to.

Sometimes a business may be suspected of nepotism when certain family members of higher-ups are promoted, hired, or given raises while other employees remain in their own positions. If an employee is fired and a family member of business leaders takes the position, it may be considered nepotism. There are no uniform national business laws regarding nepotism and the practice may be openly embraced by some businesses. 

Other businesses may have serious rules banning nepotism, which may include not having spouses or family members working in the same department or company. This type of nepotism may be extremely taxing for people who meet at work and go on to get married.

Anti-nepotism can work against well-qualified individuals as well.  This is especially true in the anti-nepotism that occurs when two people working together get married and one or both of them are fired. The business may also choose to not hire someone who is very qualified for a position because that person is related to someone in the company.

Nepotism is a problematic legal issue to deal with because of its varying complexities. While most states have comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, nepotism may not be covered as a form of discrimination. There are several ways nepotism can be combated legally, however.

Discrimination based on marital status, sex, or age is illegal and can sometimes be argued against in cases of suspected nepotism.  In addition, racial discrimination, a serious charge, can also sometimes be practiced under the guise of nepotism. Many states also have laws and legal rights that argue that nepotism against married couples is a form of illegal discrimination.

If you or someone you know has been affected by nepotism, whether in the workplace, school, or in government, you may be entitled to monetary compensation or your job back. Contact an experienced nepotism lawyer through this Web site for a free consultation.  If they agree to take your case it will be on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay them if you win your nepotism case.