Employment law is a broad area that governs the employer-employee relationship, ensuring fair treatment at work. Federal and state laws work together to enforce workplace rights around hiring, wages, safety, and termination.
Key legal issues in the workplace include:
Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, age, or religion (under Title VII and the ADA)
Harassment, including sexual harassment
Wrongful termination and retaliation
Wage and hour violations, such as unpaid overtime
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) ensures minimum wage and overtime pay. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides job-protected leave. State laws may offer additional rights, such as sick leave or protections for independent contractors.
Document incidents, file internal HR complaints, and consult an employment law attorney. In many cases, filing a complaint with the EEOC or state labor board is necessary before pursuing a lawsuit.
An employment lawyer can help you navigate complex labor laws, build a strong case, and negotiate fair compensation or reinstatement if your rights have been violated.