Knowledge of the relevant employment rules is essential for your protection, whether you are an employer or an employee. Given all the laws and regulations to remember, this is much easier said than done. You'll discover significant differences between the state regulations and the federal legislation regarding employment. 

When it comes to workplace-related legal issues, employment attorneys can represent both employers and employees. Check out this guide to find out more about what they do, including when to hire one, why, and essential factors to think about.

When to hire an employment lawyer

Generally speaking, you should engage an employment lawyer anytime there is an employer-employee dispute. Remember, you should consult a lawyer as soon as you become aware of the problem to take the appropriate steps and prevent delays.

Employees

If your employer violates your rights unlawfully, you should see a lawyer as soon as possible. Specialized employment law firms, such as Kingsley & Kingsley Lawyers, can help you protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation. Your pay, benefits, privileges, or general well-being within the company could be at risk if you don't act appropriately. Here are some specific indications that you should consult a lawyer:

You've been a victim of workplace misconduct, including harassment (either physical or sexual), discrimination, and retaliation by your employer.

• You require assistance submitting a workers' compensation claim after being ill or hurt at work.
• You exercised a specific right, such as the right to whistleblower or request overtime pay, and your company took adverse action against you.
• You don't get your perks as an employee as per your contract.
• Your employment contract was improperly terminated without good cause.
• You worked off the clock or didn't get paid for overtime.

Employers

An employment attorney can help you comply by advising you on the laws relevant to your workplace. In addition, there are other situations where you, as an employer, should hire a lawyer:

• You require assistance reviewing your employee handbook or handling paperwork such as contracts and severance agreements.
• You want to understand more about Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to create a safe and risk-free working environment.
• You are involved in a litigation or employment dispute over harassment, discrimination at work, poor benefits, or another issue.
• You're seeking guidance on important choices like layoffs or retrenchments.
• You seek counsel as you negotiate a collective bargaining agreement with a union.

Key things to consider when hiring an employment lawyer

• Experience. What level of expertise does the attorney possess? There are numerous ways to figure this out. Ask them how long they have been in business before looking at their past performances to determine their winning percentage.
• References. Requesting references from a lawyer is another effective technique to evaluate their qualifications.
• Legal costs. Before picking anyone, enquire about their legal fees and billing procedures. You may arrange your budget and get the most value by choosing between those who bill by the hour and those who operate on contingency.
• Communication. Communication techniques vary among employment attorneys. Therefore, locating a lawyer whose communication style aligns with yours is crucial.

The bottom line

Find a trusted employment lawyer if you have an employer-employee dispute.