You've had your coffee and you're on your way to the office. You have had a fine career in public service and you're at the pinnacle of your profession. You like your job and privately congratulate yourself for helping people and not chasing the almighty dollar. Things are good. Suddenly, your expressionless boss walks in and instructs you to leave immediately because you are on, “paid administrative leave.” You’ve heard the term, “paid administrative leave” it’s usually reserved for criminals and people who are about to be fired.

Originally published in Law360.