There are many jokes made about lawyers and lots of snarky comments about their lack of morals and derogatory names like, “ambulance chaser” are sometimes thrown around. In actuality, attorneys perform an important service to society and there are many times when you need one.
Buying a house, starting a business, writing your will, These are just a few of the things you need help from a lawyer to do. Going to court without an attorney is a huge mistake. One type of attorney you may, unfortunately, need one day is an employment lawyer. What situations would require one?
Wrongful Termination
Wherever you live and work, there may come a time when you need, for example, an employment lawyer Pittsburgh PA. Losing a job can be traumatic and when you are wrongfully terminated, you need the help of an attorney. A company can have layoffs due to downsizing, letting an employee go for poor performance, attendance, or breaking company rules. But if you are fired at the whim of an employer because of your ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, or any other personal reason, the company has committed a crime and you should talk to a lawyer immediately.
Discrimination
Raises and promotions should always be made on merit and all employees should receive equal treatment from their bosses. Sadly, this is not always the case. Women, minorities, and people in the LGBQT+ community are sometimes overlooked or mistreated. Discrimination violates labor statutes and should never be tolerated. If you suspect you have been discriminated against for any reason, make an appointment with an employment attorney to discuss your situation and what can be done about it.
Unsafe Work Conditions
Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe work environment no matter what the job entails. Some jobs such as construction can be physically dangerous, working with chemicals or being out in the elements also may cause risk. Even desk jobs have their hazards. Your employer should provide safety equipment, training, and where necessary, emergency gear. This includes fire extinguishers, sprinklers, and easily accessible fire exits.
You are also entitled to be safe from harassment or bullying by fellow employees. This includes verbal as well as physical abuse and any form of sexual harassment. An unsafe work environment should not be ignored and is certainly a valid reason to contact an employment attorney.
Unfair Wages
There is a minimum wage law and no employer is allowed legally to pay workers less than that rate. In addition to federal or state minimum wage laws, you may be working under a contract that provides wages and periodic or merit raises.
It is also not uncommon for a worker doing the exact same job and performing just as well to not be paid at the same rate as a fellow employee in the same position. This has traditionally happened to female employees. Speak to your employer about the unfair wages and if they don’t correct the situation it’s time to seek an attorney.
Breach of Contract
Some jobs involve signing a contract that specifies the duties of the position, the length of the employment, wages, benefits, and other aspects of the job. Both parties are obligated by law to live up to the terms of that contract. If the employer fails to deliver anything that is spelled out in that legal document, it constitutes a breach of contract and you can file a suit. To do so, you will need an attorney.
Life is not also fair and sometimes you need help from a legal professional. If you are experiencing any of these problems at work, don’t hesitate to contact an employment lawyer to help you rectify the situation.
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