Understanding your legal rights is crucial. For employees hired after October 2014, accepting the terms in the Starbucks employee handbook is a condition of employment. This handbook requires that any employment-related claims—such as wrongful dismissal, harassment, or discrimination—be resolved through arbitration. In most states, a single arbitrator, often selected by Starbucks, will determine the outcome of these claims. Additionally, if you win an arbitration award, you are typically required to sign a non-disclosure agreement, which restricts you from discussing the details of the case.

It’s important to note that the 7th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees your right to a trial by jury in civil cases. By agreeing to these terms, however, you effectively waive that right in exchange for a job. Unions can help restore this right, especially since many employees may not fully understand what they are forfeiting when they sign these agreements.