When there is a workplace situation regarding wrongful termination or discrimination at the workplace, employers and employees can resolve such issues with the help of employment law. So, let us understand employment law and where it is appropriate to hire an employment lawyer to resolve issues arising in the workplace.
Who are Employment Lawyers?
Employment lawyers are individuals or organizations who can represent either the employee or employers concerning state and federal law issues. They also ensure that all employees are treated fairly and harmoniously, complying with the rules for local, state, and federal laws applicable in the modern workplace. An employment attorney usually has the following tasks specified for them:
- Review and draft employee handbooks
- Provide help with wage law issues
- Represent employees or employers in front of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
- Guide employees about their rights if their rights have been violated
Apart from the above, any employment attorney can manage legal problems encountered in an office regarding:
- Contract violations
- Issues related to employee benefits like retirement savings
- Workplace discrimination
- Wrongful termination
- Sexual harassment
- Whistleblower protection
Also, despite not being a part of the union, several lawyers are rendered powerless when the employers have treated them inhospitably and violated applicable law to create disadvantages for employees. There can be infinite situations wherein an employer or employee can hire an employment attorney to resolve workplace-related issues. The situations where an employer can hire an employment law attorney will be discussed next.
When Should I Hire an Employment Lawyer If I am the Employer?
With the topic of what is a labor lawyer answered in the previous paragraph, it is a suitable time to understand the situations when the hiring of an employment attorney is justified. When an employer hires an experienced employment attorney, they are made aware of the different issues related to employment.
Several employment lawyers also teach employers about state and federal laws that apply to specific workplaces, ensuring that employers comply. Further, an employment law attorney also creates awareness about the responsibilities of an employer within the guidelines listed in the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) and environmental regulations.
Employment law attorneys can also speak on behalf of employers in the presence of governmental boards and agencies if they have been summoned for any form of compliance. On the part of the employer, they should contact an employment lawyer for the following reasons:
- Representation is required for collective bargaining with a union
- Fighting a case of discrimination or harassment filed by an employee
- Fighting a lawsuit naming them as defendants for employment issues
- Potential termination, firing, or change of retirement rules or employee benefits
With ample experience, an employment lawyer can help you with legal issues apart from employee-employer disagreements. They will also help you get ready or review contracts or agreements applicable to employees for employment releases, severance contracts, etc. In addition, due to several distinct types of regulations according to federal, state, and local agencies like OSHA, hiring an employment attorney with expertise in specific workplaces is necessary to check compliance regularly.
Now let us explore the reasons which qualify the hiring of an employment law attorney for your organization.
Reasons Why You Need an Employment Attorney
Employment lawyers are not always the same in terms of their services. When you think of an employment law attorney, you need to know the people they represent. It could be employers, employees, or both. The most important reasons for hiring an employment attorney can be understood:
- Professional advice regarding legal rights and duties
When you begin working with an employment attorney lawyer, they will be able to safeguard your rights in each legal document related to your employment. Then, in case any issues arise later, you can trust that the employment attorney will be ready to help you.
- Understanding the pay structure, benefits, etc.
The most common employment law problem faced is employee’s pay, benefits, or termination-related issues. In addition, with the current situation worldwide, several lawyers had to face financial issues, which increased the number of terminations. Thanks to employment lawyers, the circumstances of your termination can be examined to see if it was an unlawful termination.
- Employment law attorney fights for you
When claiming compensation for wrongful termination, the employment attorney you have hired will be able to work out a resolution on your behalf. Doing so will minimize the time, effort, and stress you go through and allows you to focus on other important tasks. In addition, if there is a chance of litigation, the existing legal team can help you navigate it.
- Get legal help for exposure to unsafe working conditions
According to OSHA rules, an employee must have a safe working environment if they are exposed to harsh chemicals, toxic waste, and other dangerous conditions in the workplace. You need to seek help from a competent employment law attorney. A negligent employer is detrimental not only to the employee but also to other employees. The employment law attorney can ensure that you are compensated properly for damages.
- Best outcomes with employment law attorneys
With the help of experienced employment attorneys working for you, it is possible to get the best results. As your employment law attorney knows the law and inner workings of the legal system, they will be able to present your case in the best way. It will ensure that you are compensated for damages.
The following points are quite helpful in understanding the occasion and reasons you need to hire an employment lawyer for any issues that you face in your workplace. Once you have understood the answer to “what is a labor lawyer” and the need for a competent employment lawyer.
A simple search on the internet for the best employment law attorney who will be able to analyze, research, and present your case in a way that ensures you get justice. Remember to choose the employment law attorney who can resolve your case without causing too much financial stress.
