Employment lawyers handle workplace disputes involving wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, unpaid wages, employment contracts, workplace accommodations, severance agreements, and other employer-employee conflicts. Depending on their practice, attorneys may represent employees, employers, or both. FindTheLawyers helps you explore employment lawyers by location and practice focus so you can compare attorneys and find legal help for your specific workplace issue.
Employment law covers a wide range of workplace disputes and legal issues. An employment attorney may help with matters involving:
| Employees May Seek Help With | Employers May Seek Help With |
|---|---|
| Wrongful termination | Employment agreements |
| Workplace discrimination | Workplace policies |
| Harassment | Employee complaints |
| Retaliation | Wage and hour matters |
| Unpaid wages or overtime | Employee termination issues |
| Workplace accommodations | Discrimination claims |
| Severance agreements | Restrictive agreements |
| Leave-related disputes | Employment litigation |
You may want to consult an employment lawyer if:
Deadlines vary depending on the type of employment claim and the law involved. For many federal employment-discrimination matters, an EEOC charge generally must be filed within 180 calendar days of the alleged discriminatory action.
In certain jurisdictions, the deadline may extend to 300 calendar days when qualifying state or local anti-discrimination laws and agencies apply. Different rules apply to some claims and to federal employees.
When comparing employment attorneys, consider more than location alone.
FindTheLawyers makes it easier to explore employment attorneys across the United States. Compare available lawyer profiles by location, practice focus, and professional information before deciding whom to contact. Whether your workplace issue involves termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, unpaid wages, employment agreements, or another employment-related dispute, you can search for attorneys serving your state or city.
What does an employment lawyer do?
An employment lawyer advises and represents employees, employers, or both in workplace-related legal matters. Cases may involve termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wage disputes, employment agreements, workplace accommodations, leave disputes, and other employment issues.
When should I contact an employment lawyer?
Consider contacting an employment lawyer when a workplace issue could significantly affect your employment, compensation, legal rights, business obligations, or future career. Consulting a lawyer early may also help you identify filing deadlines and preserve important evidence.
Can an employment lawyer help with wrongful termination?
Yes. An employment lawyer can review the circumstances surrounding a termination, examine relevant employment records and communications, determine which laws or agreements may apply, and explain potential legal options.
Can an employment lawyer help with workplace discrimination?
Employment attorneys commonly handle claims involving workplace discrimination and related retaliation. Depending on the law involved, administrative procedures may need to be completed before certain discrimination lawsuits can proceed.
Do employment lawyers represent employees and employers?
Some employment lawyers focus exclusively on employees, while others represent companies and employers. Some firms handle matters for both. Review the attorney's practice focus to determine whether it matches your situation.
How much does an employment lawyer cost?
Employment lawyer fees vary depending on the attorney, location, complexity of the matter, and type of case. Attorneys may use hourly fees, contingency arrangements, flat fees, or other billing structures depending on the legal service involved.
What should I bring when meeting an employment lawyer?
Useful documents may include employment agreements, termination notices, emails, text messages, workplace policies, pay records, performance evaluations, disciplinary notices, complaint records, severance documents, and other materials related to the workplace dispute.
How long do I have to file an employment discrimination claim?
For many EEOC-covered discrimination matters, the general federal filing period is 180 calendar days, although it may extend to 300 days in certain jurisdictions. Different rules can apply depending on the claim and employment setting.