Without proof that bullying in the workplace is intentional or reckless and causes real harm, there’s nothing actually illegal about it, says J.J. Prescott, commenting on an incident in which a boss set up his subordinate in a fake holdup. In this instance, which involves a suit against the company by the rattled victim, the employer will have to show that “there was no real injury, or that the employee was oversensitive,” Prescott said.

More about Prescott says workplace bullying not illegal in itself >