FAQ

An employment attorney is your legal advocate in the workplace. We specialize in employment law, a vast area of law that covers the legal rights and obligations of both employers and employees. We can help you understand your rights under federal and state laws, navigate complex legal procedures, and fight for fair compensation or workplace improvements.

An employment lawyer provides legal counsel to employees and employers on workplace rights and obligations. They draft employment documents, negotiate disputes, and represent clients in mediations or lawsuits related to issues like discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage violations. For employees, they file claims against employers for labor law breaches and seek compensation.

An employee may need an employment lawyer in the following situations:

• Discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. This includes wrongful termination due to discrimination.
• Retaliation for reporting violations, whistleblowing, or exercising legal rights like taking medical leave.
• Wage and hour violations such as unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, or misclassification as an independent contractor.
• Denial of legally entitled benefits like family/medical leave, sick leave, or disability accommodations.
• Breach of employment contract, such as wrongful termination in violation of the contract terms.
• Hostile work environment created by severe or pervasive harassment.
• Sexual harassment from a supervisor, coworker, or third party.
• Workplace safety violations or retaliation for reporting unsafe conditions.
• An employment lawyer can review the situation, advise the employee on their rights and options, attempt to negotiate a resolution, and potentially file a claim or lawsuit against the employer for violations of state and federal employment laws.

Reviewing your employment contract with a lawyer is wise. They can explain complicated terms, ensure your rights are protected, and potentially negotiate better benefits.  For minor roles with standard contracts, it might be less crucial. When in doubt, consulting a lawyer empowers you to make informed decisions.

Many employment lawyers work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if they win your case or get you a settlement. The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of what you recover. Be sure to ask about their contingency fee rate during consultations.