When policies, processes, and norms are established, employees typically believe that their bosses are acting in their best interests. Despite our wish to believe the best in our employers, they may be abusing their employees. Employers are obligated by law to respect and uphold the legal rights of their employees. When an employee feels their rights are being violated, what can they do? For assistance, contact a knowledgeable wage and hour attorney.
Understanding your rights as an employee will enable you to make decisions about when to seek legal counsel from an employment attorney. Here are a few situations to keep in mind.
When you have wrongfully dismissed someone
Does your staff member feel they were fired unfairly? An employment lawyer can guide you through the legal system and ensure that you are adhering to all the necessary regulations, even if this can be a challenging position. If you had good cause to fire the employee, they can also assist you in defending your choice.
When there are workplace safety issues
You might get into a lot of trouble if you have worries about workplace safety. If an employer exposes workers to dangerous materials, places them in insecure and hazardous working conditions, or fails to provide them with proper training, they may receive a call from the Ministry of Labour. In addition to assisting you in adhering to all occupational laws and regulations regarding health and safety, an employment lawyer can defend you if an employee chooses to file a lawsuit or a government complaint.
When there is harassment or discrimination
It is time to send in the legal team if an employee is accusing you of discriminatory or harassing behavior. This is important stuff, with which you should not play about. An employment attorney can assist you with the investigation, offer legal counsel, and, if needed, represent you in court.
When there is a case of sexual harassment
You should notify the appropriate parties—typically your employer’s human resources department—as soon as possible if you have been the victim of sexual harassment at work or on the job. These circumstances can occasionally be “swept under the rug” or handled improperly. Please get assistance from a lawyer if this has occurred to you.
When there are wage and hour problems
Conflicts over an employee’s pay and schedule of work are referred to as wage and hour concerns between employers and employees. A few instances are unpaid overtime, failure to pay the minimum wage, and skipping meals or breaks. This also applies to companies that fail to give workers their due vacation or sick leave, or who falsely identify them as independent contractors to skip paying their due benefits.
It’s time to bring in legal professionals if you’re an employer trying to safeguard your company or handling difficult employees. An employment attorney will look out for you and make sure you stay out of trouble with the law!
