An anonymous reader writes: I have been placed on suspension pending investigation regarding violation of my employer's "no fraternization" policy. During the past 3 days of interrogations I have had many prying, personal questions asked, including whether or not I had sexual relations with another employee who works in the same facility but not on my shift (we are never in the building at the same time). We are considered lower level management of the same level, so union support is out, and have no authority or interaction with one another in the course of business. I have not responded to the allegations and stated that certain things are none of their business and that I am awaiting counsel (which I am).
No proof of any wrongdoing was given, and the source of the allegations is not being revealed.
It is my feeling that my personal life and who I associate with off the clock is my own business as long as it has no effect on my job performance. I am awaiting legal counsel, but I have been told by the company that there is a strong possibility I will not have a job within the next few days, if not sooner.
What are my rights in this situation, can an employer question you about your private life in this manner, and am I obligated to answer?