Imagine that you are at work and begin facing discrimination from your supervisor. Would you know what steps you need to take next? Unfortunately, the answer is probably not. However, an employment attorney is the exact individual you need to help you in situations like this.
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Employment attorneys are people who work with both businesses and employees to resolve issues. If you ever find yourself amid a labor dispute, it’s essential to know some basic facts about these individuals.
What Are They?
An employment lawyer is someone who fights for a company or an employee. For example, employment discrimination attorneys fight for employees, while management lawyers fight for employers. Sometimes, general employment attorneys fight for both types of clients.
What Do They Do?
Employment attorneys deal with a variety of labor law issues. The most common topics are discrimination, wage issues, and workplace safety. The first thing they will do is help you analyze your case and see if it is something worth pursuing with legal action. For example, they will ensure that you have done everything possible to handle the issue within the company first.
If they determine a case, they will help clients pursue the following steps regarding legal action. That can even mean helping you pursue a lawsuit. In addition, they will guide your understanding of the laws and how to receive penance. You can find great Employment Lawyers with LegalVision UK.
When Would You Contact Them?
As soon as you feel an employer has wronged you, you need to get help. However, that doesn’t mean you must go to an attorney immediately. Many people choose to go to the federal or state EEOC first. This group can help employees of small companies file complaints with the federal and state government. That is the first thing to do outside your company. Then, the agency will look into the case to see if the claim is valid.
At this point, you will need to determine if you want to begin a lawsuit. If you do, it is time to contact an employment attorney. They will take a look at your case and advise you of whether your case is strong or not. Then, the attorney will investigate beyond what the agency has done. They will do things like depositions and cross-examination. Agencies don’t do these during their explorations as they are limited to interviews.
What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?
If you believe you are facing a labor issue, keep accurate and detailed records of these events. For example, record the names and contact information of any witnesses. This information is helpful and can help the attorney when you take action.
How Can Employers Protect Themselves?
Companies of all sizes will have employee handbooks. This book will establish the company’s protocols and rules regarding equal employment opportunities. It will also state how employees can file complaints regarding discrimination and other issues within the company. If you take these steps, the company must examine the case to protect itself.
How Can Freelancers Protect Themselves?
If you are a freelancer, things are a little more challenging. That’s because you are technically your own company. However, you are not an employee, so you don’t have the same rights. Unless you’re in a state with independent contractor protections, you will only be protected by the contract you negotiate with your chosen company. However, companies have no duty to rehire you.
You should know a bit about employment attorneys. That will ensure you are more prepared if you ever need one. When hiring one, be sure to do some due diligence. That can help you receive a more favorable outcome in your case.
