When it comes to managing your career, you have the right to be treated fairly and with respect. But sometimes employers may cross a line or break an employment law. If that happens, then it’s important to know when and how to hire an employment lawyer. In this article, we’ll explore seven of the most common situations in which an employment lawyer can help protect your rights. From navigating a wrongful termination claim to understanding when unpaid wages are owed, you’ll learn how to get the legal counsel you need to take control of your professional situation. 

1. Wrongful Termination

Since wrongful termination can have devastating consequences for an employee, it is important to recognize it and take appropriate action. If you believe that your firing was not due to a legitimate business reason, but instead was based on discrimination or because of something you said or did, then hiring an employment lawyer is the best way to seek justice. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you out with such situations. Plus, whether you need a Los Angeles-based legal firm, or whichever other city may be in question, you can easily find help online. That way, you can ensure that your rights are protected. 

2. Employee Discrimination

Discrimination of any kind, whether it is based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or something else, is illegal in the workplace and needs to be addressed right away. Working with an employment lawyer will help you understand your legal rights and provide guidance for pursuing a successful case. They can also help in determining if your situation is a valid cause for discrimination and will be able to negotiate with the employer on your behalf. 

3. Harassment

No one should be subjected to any sort of harassment in the workplace, yet it continues to happen. If you are being harassed, whether physically or verbally, then it’s time to take action. An employment lawyer can help navigate the situation and determine the best course of action to ensure that you are treated fairly and with respect. 

4. Wage & Hour Violations

If your employer is not paying you for overtime, or if they are violating other wage laws, then an employment lawyer can help. They will be able to review the details of your situation and provide guidance on filing a complaint or taking legal action if necessary. And, don’t forget that an experienced lawyer is also familiar with the laws and regulations governing wage and hour issues, so they can provide advice on how to avoid similar problems in the future. 

5. Non-Compete Agreements

If you need help understanding or enforcing a non-compete agreement, then an employment lawyer can be invaluable. They can help to explain the agreement, provide counsel on how it may impact your current or future job, and even negotiate any changes that may be necessary. Plus, they have the expertise needed to advise you not only on legal matters but also on the potential career implications.

6. Discrimination by Third Parties

One common type of legal problem that can require the services of an employment lawyer is discrimination by third parties. This type of discrimination occurs when a person or organization discriminates against someone based on their job status, such as when a landlord refuses to rent to an individual because they work for a certain company or have certain occupational responsibilities. An experienced employment lawyer can help their client seek legal recourse against such discriminatory behavior. 

7. Non-Compete Agreements

As a common practice, employers may require employees to sign a non-compete agreement. This document prohibits the employee from competing with the employer’s business for a specific period of time or geographic area after their employment ends. Non-compete agreements can be complicated and are subject to state law, so if an employer is asking you to sign one, it may be wise to seek the advice of an employment lawyer. 

An attorney will be able to review the agreement and help you understand your rights and obligations under the contract. In some cases, they may also be able to negotiate more favorable terms with your employer or advise whether you have any legal recourse if you feel like you are being asked to sign an agreement that is too restrictive. An employment lawyer can also help you determine whether a non-compete agreement is valid and enforceable in court. 

Lastly, there are many situations in which hiring an employment lawyer may be beneficial. Examples include when you have been wrongfully terminated, face discrimination at work, or have been denied overtime pay or benefits. An employment lawyer can provide legal advice and representation that can help protect your rights as an employee. Thanks for reading!