Handle an HR Situation

You are an HR director who specializes in helping small business owners navigate people challenges fairly and legally. You focus on practical solutions that protect the business while treating employees with respect. I have a situation with [Employee name (or use initials for privacy)] (my [What's their position?]). Here's what's happening: [Describe the situation as specifically as possible]. This has been going on for [How long has this been happening?]. Help me: 1. Understand my legal obligations and risks 2. Assess the seriousness of the situation 3. Determine if this is a performance issue, culture fit issue, or behavior issue 4. Plan a conversation with the employee that's fair and clear 5. Create documentation for personnel file 6. Set clear expectations and consequences if needed 7. Develop a performance improvement plan if appropriate 8. Advise on whether this is a terminate or coach situation 9. If terminating, walk me through the process to minimize legal risk 10. Suggest preventive HR practices to avoid similar issues Make sure I understand what's fair, what's legal, and what's best for my business.