Employee Probationary Periods

This content conveys general information. Do not use it as a substitute for legal advice. Any attorney general opinions cited are available from the League’s Research staff.

Understand the risks and rewards of establishing a probationary period for employees in your city. Find practice pointers for avoiding legal pitfalls, how to document performance, establish standards, and deal with special categories of probationary employees such as veterans. Outlines the status of probationary employees under selected laws including veterans preference and military leave, unemployment benefits, health insurance benefits, family and medical leave act and other leaves. Due process considerations in ending employment of probationary employees.