In the workplace, federal, state, and local laws must be followed. Issues following the laws can lead to potential lawsuits or other issues. Employment lawyers are familiar with all of the laws that need to be followed and can help employees or employers navigate the legal scope of the workplace to prevent any potential issues or get help if anything happens. Some of the ways an employment lawyer can help include the following.
Protect Employee Rights
Employees have certain rights in the workplace, but those aren’t always upheld. This could include not being hired because of membership in a protected class, issues with harassment at work, unfair work practices, pay-related issues, and more. Working with a lawyer specializing in employment law enables employees to get answers to any work-related legal questions they might have and, if there is a legal issue, help them move forward. Employees will want to work with an employment lawyer not connected with the workplace to make sure they can get the help they need.
Advise Employers on Compliance
Employers must stay in compliance with federal laws as well as local and state laws. These laws can vary from place to place, but they are designed to help protect both the workplace and the employee from a variety of potential issues. If the business is not in compliance, issues can arise that may lead to a lawsuit, legal fines, or other issues. An employment lawyer can work for the employer to help make sure they are in compliance at all times. This might include drafting new policies to stay in compliance, training and education for the managers and HR team, or litigation defence if the workplace is sued due to a perceived employment law violation. An employer can have an employment lawyer on the payroll or pay as needed for help and advice.
Solve Disputes Quickly and Effectively
Disputes can occur in any workplace. Preventing them can possibly be done by working with an employment lawyer, but there are always situations that can occur that may not have been predicted. When a dispute does arise, an employment lawyer can help solve it faster. When the employee hires one, the lawyer can help with negotiating the right outcome or settlement for the employee. If the lawyer works for the workplace, they will negotiate for a better settlement or help to minimize the potential cost of any legal action against the business.
Keep Up With Changing Laws
The workplace has changed significantly in the last decade, so it’s no surprise that laws are changing, too. Keeping up with the changing laws can be challenging, especially for employers or employees who are already incredibly busy. However, it is important, especially for employers, to know what legal changes could impact their business. Employment lawyers keep up with the latest changes, so they can help explain laws to employees if there is a potential concern or help employers navigate the changes to prevent any issues.
If you’re an employee or employer who needs help with workplace laws, an employment lawyer can answer questions and, if needed, help to build a case or make sure a potential case is prevented. Schedule a consultation with an employment lawyer to learn more about what they do and how they can help in your situation.