Employment laws govern the relationship between employers and employees. These laws give workers protection against discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other forms of mistreatment.

When to get an employment lawyer? This article will explore that subject and tell you everything you need to know. So without further ado, let’s get started!

What Is An Employment Lawyer?

An employment lawyer is a legal professional that specializes in employment law. Often, they provide legal advice as well as representation to employees who are facing issues in their workplaces. Such issues can range from everything from retaliation to discrimination.

In addition to that, employment lawyers can also help employers make sure they’re not breaking the complex array of employment laws in the United States. With their assistance, employers can ensure they’re following vital local regulations and treating their employees lawfully.

So When To Get An Employment Lawyer In The US?

Several situations exist wherein you should get an employment lawyer. Below are the most common reasons why:

  • Discrimination

Discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee unfairly due to their race, gender, age, religion, disability, or any other specialized characteristic. Now if you experience workplace discrimination, then you should immediately get an employment lawyer to protect your interests.

An employment lawyer can help you file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or EEOC. Also, they can represent you in court if ever your case gets there.

  • Harassment

Harassment is a form of discrimination that involves unwanted conduct. Examples of unwanted conduct include sexual advances, remarks, comments, or any sort of gesture that establishes a working environment that’s intimidating or hostile.

If you experience any kind of harassment at work, then you should contact an employment lawyer as soon as possible. By doing this, you can take the necessary legal steps to stop workplace mistreatment and hold accountability to the perpetrator of your harassment.

  • Retaliation

Retaliation in the workplace occurs when employers penalize their employees for engaging in activities that are protected such as filing harassment complaints. How the retaliation takes place can vary. However, it usually involves wrongful termination along with discrimination.

Anyone who’s experienced retaliation of any kind in their workplace can receive assistance from an employment lawyer. That lawyer can help you file a complaint and help you get the compensation that you deserve during court cases or private settlements.

  • Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination refers to the firing of an employee by an employer because of reasons that are illegal. Some illegal reasons one might fire their employees include discrimination, retaliation, and a breach of their employment contracts for unknown reasons.

It’s important that you get an employment lawyer right away if you’ve been wrongfully terminated from your job. With their help, you’ll be able to pursue legal action against your former employer. 

  • Wage Issues

Wage and hour laws govern how minimum wage and overtime are paid in the United States and other parts of the world. In the event that you believe that your employer has not compensated you properly, then it’s best to hire an attorney. 

Legal counsel from an employment lawyer can help you determine if your claims are valid. Also, they can help you attain the compensation you’ve got due.

  • Contract Reviews & Negotiations

Employment lawyers are capable of helping you review and negotiate employment contracts like severance and confidentiality agreements. On top of that, they can help you understand your rights and obligations under these contracts.

How Much Do Employment Lawyers Charge?

The cost of hiring an employment lawyer depends on several factors. Some examples of these factors include the complexity of a given case, the lawyer’s level of experience, and where the lawyer is based.

Some employment lawyers charge their clients a fixed hourly rate. Meanwhile, others work on a contingency or flat fee basis. As such, it is crucial to discuss payment terms with your lawyer so that you can compensate them in a way that’s within your means.

With all that being said, hourly rates for employment lawyers typically range between $150 all the way up to $500 per hour. In comparison, contingency fees can range from 20% to 40% of the settlement that you get. Lastly, flat fees can vary greatly. Generally speaking, they depend on the particular lawyer you’re working with.

Conclusion

If you think that your employee rights have been violated, then it’s crucial to hire an employment lawyer. Such a lawyer can safeguard your rights and help you seek justice. Moreover, they can help you navigate the complex legal system of the United States and gather key evidence for your case.

Keep in mind that it is never too early to consult with an employment lawyer. This is especially true if you believe or suspect that something wrong is happening in your workplace.