How do I file an appeal?

If you have been suspended without pay or terminated, you must first seek an acceptable administrative resolution in writing within five (5) working days of the incident through one administrative level above the level of the supervisor who took the original employment action.

 If a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, you have within five (5) working days of notification by next level management to request an appeal. Such a request must be made in writing, on the appropriate form, to the Director of Employee Relations in the Office of Human Resources (“OHR”) with documented proof of the denial. Failure to follow these steps will constitute a waiver of the right to appeal. 

When will I have my hearing?
OHR will make every effort to schedule a hearing date within thirty (30) to forty-five (45) working days from the time you officially appeal to Employee Relations. No hearing for any reason will be scheduled later than sixty (60) working days from the time you submit a written appeal to Employee Relations. The failure to appear for a scheduled hearing within that time constitutes a waiver of the right to appeal.

What is a briefing?
The briefing is an opportunity to learn about the hearing process and to ask any questions. You will need to provide the names of your witnesses, if you have any, and any documentation (exhibits). A list of witnesses and copies of documentation must be submitted to Employee Relations at least one (1) week in advance of the hearing date.

How do I prepare for the hearing?
1. Organize your case. Have one or two sentences that describe your case.

 2. Determine what you need to prove at the hearing.

3. Think about what the other side is going to present and how you will respond.

4. Prepare your witnesses if you have them (find out what information they have and how they can help you).

5. Identify necessary documentation (exhibits) and how you will explain them.

6. Plan what you are going to say. Write out your presentation if necessary. 

What will I need to bring to the hearing? 
You will need to inform your witness(es) of the date, time, and location of the hearing so they arrive on time. Employee Relations will bring copies of any approved documentation that you previously submitted.

Can I bring a lawyer?
You cannot have an attorney present during the hearing unless you are being charged with a crime. If you receive approval to have an attorney present because of pending criminal charges, then Georgia Tech will also have a legal representative at the hearing.

What happens after the hearing?
The appropriate Institute official will inform you of the Institute decision and advise of any further right to appeal.

Where can I find additional information on appeals?

Staff appeal policies may be found in our HR Policy Manual (link below).

HR Suspension and Termination Processes

HR Policy Manual

Who do I contact if I have questions regarding the staff appeal process?
For termination appeals, please contact Thomas Vance at 404.894.3249. For suspension appeals, please contact Kim Krajovic at 404.894.7535.