Legal Issues

The matter that I am reporting on is an appeal before the New York department of Unemployment.  The name of the matter is In the Matter of George Tompson, Case Number  ALJ Case No 009-29419. The case is before Administrative Law Judge Elizabeth T. Nicolato.  The location of the court is 120 Bloomingdale Road, Rm. 233, White Plains, New York 10605.  This is an administrative proceeding which means that the rules of evidence are far more relaxed that what one would experience in criminal or civil litigation.  For instance, hearsay testimony is admissible in administrative proceedings.  The proceedings are taped on a recorder and witnesses are sworn in.
    George was fired from his position as a manager of Chase bank in Yonkers, New York.  It is alleged that he fraudulently double endorsed a paycheck and deposited it into his friends bank account in order to avoid an Internal Revenue Service levy.  George insists that his friend did indeed sign the check and that there was no fraud.  The bank alleges that he left voluntarily and is therefore not entitled to unemployment benefits.  Gorge contends that he was forced out of his job due to intimidation tactics initiated by the regional director.  George is also alleging that as a result of the banks conduct, he had to be hospitalized for a panic attack.  He stated that the bank is attempting to besmirch his reputation which is fatal to his career long term since he is graduating college this year with a degree in international banking.
    George gave his opening statement, and the bank gave theirs.  George informed the judge that he had witnesses and asked that the court take their testimony.  His main witness is the friend whose signature George allegedly forged.  George had to ask for a brief adjournment however, because the friend was not available to testify today so he offered the court dates that the friend would be available to testify.