A few months ago I was let go from my job of nearly nine years for writing a check that was returned to my place of employment for nsf. In the employee handbook that I received nine years ago there was page that I signed saying dicsipline for NSF checks is a three step process, 1) a verbal warning, 2) a written warning and 3) "Review of facts and termination is recommended". I did not do it intentionally, it was a banking error (two automatic debits came out instead of one). However, in an a copy of the policies and procedures that is dated six years later than the original document, it says it is a five step process. I was given the three step process, and on my written warning the manager wrote "Next time "could" lead to termination". Also, I KNOW FOR A FACT that many other employees have had many more NSF checks than me and they are still employed at the company. One of those people is the person who fired me. Do I have any ground to stand on as far as some compensation for my loss of benefits and income? I live in Illinois. Thank you!

A few months ago I was let go from my job of nearly nine years for writing a check that was returned to my place of employment for nsf. In the employee handbook that I received nine years ago there was page that I signed saying dicsipline for NSF checks is a three step process, 1) a verbal warning, 2) a written warning and 3) "Review of facts and termination is recommended". I did not do it intentionally, it was a banking error (two automatic debits came out instead of one). However, in an a copy of the policies and procedures that is dated six years later than the original document, it says it is a five step process. I was given the three step process, and on my written warning the manager wrote "Next time "could" lead to termination". Also, I KNOW FOR A FACT that many other employees have had many more NSF checks than me and they are still employed at the company. One of those people is the person who fired me. Do I have any ground to stand on as far as some compensation for my loss of benefits and income? I live in Illinois. Thank you!
There really is no law in effect that says a company cannot change its policy at will and without notice.
If you feel you have been DISCRMINATED against for race, age, religion, etc. then you would have a starting point.
Your best bet is to file for unemployment ASAP since it begins the week you file and is not retroactive to the termination date if not the same week as filed.
I wish you the best.
Let me know if you have further questions.

But can they change the policy at will per case? I think it is discrimination because the people she likes that have committed the same offense the same number of times, or more, have been given little or no dicsiplinary action.

It may be unfair but it is not illegal discrimination unless you are being treated differently because of your age, disability, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, gender or retaliation for filing a complaint on the same.

But can they change the policy at will per case? I think it is discrimination because the people she likes that have committed the same offense the same number of times, or more, have been given little or no dicsiplinary action.

Then that is not discrimination as defined and protected by the law. It is not fair but it is not illegal either.

I am sorry you were a victim of this treatment.
sue