Employment Law: Protecting Your Rights at Work

Few things affect your life as directly as your job. When something goes wrong at work, whether it is unpaid wages, unfair treatment, or a dispute over a contract or a termination, the stakes are high for employees and employers alike. Employment law is the body of federal and state law that governs that relationship.

Common employment issues

We help clients with a wide range of workplace matters, including:

  • Unpaid wages and overtime. Missing paychecks, unpaid overtime, and misclassification as an “independent contractor” or “exempt” employee. Learn more on our wage disputes page.
  • Discrimination and harassment. Unfair treatment based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, national origin, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics.
  • Retaliation. Punishment for reporting wrongdoing, complaining about pay or safety, or taking protected leave.
  • Wrongful termination. Firings that violate the law or an employment agreement.
  • Employment agreements. Non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality agreements, and severance agreements.
  • Workplace privacy. Disputes over monitoring, recording, and the use of employee information.

For employees

If you believe your employer has treated you unlawfully, you may have options, and acting promptly matters. Many employment claims must be raised within short time limits, and some must first go through a government agency before they can be filed in court. Keeping your records, pay stubs, and any written communications can help.

For employers

Employers face a complex web of federal and state requirements, and a single policy mistake can affect an entire workforce. We help businesses respond to claims and agency charges, defend lawsuits, and resolve disputes before they grow.

Specific legal requirements, and why they matter

Employment claims are governed by highly specific legal requirements, including strict deadlines and procedural steps that differ between federal and state law and from one state to another. Missing a step can end a claim or a defense before it is ever heard, and the way a dispute is handled from the beginning has real implications for its outcome.

Our attorneys are experienced at handling employment matters in Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida, and we tailor our approach to fit your situation and your goals.

Related services

Many workplace disputes can be resolved without a trial. Learn about our mediation services, or visit our Litigation page.

Contact us today for a consultation

Call us to schedule a consultation at any of our offices in New Orleans, Birmingham, Mobile, or Pensacola.

This article provides general information only. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is different; please consult an attorney about yours.