What to Expect from your First Meeting with an Employment Lawyer

It can seem overwhelming trying to understand all of the rules and regulations in a workplace environment. Both employers and employees must follow specific laws regarding worker compensation, safety protocols, and overall employee fairness. If an employer is in violation of these laws, an employment lawyer can help employees receive the compensation they deserve. At Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC, our dedicated employment lawyers are here to help employees with issues in the workplace receive the rights they deserve. 

What Is an Employment Lawyer?

Employment lawyers represent the needs of employees if issues arise regarding laws in the workplace. These laws, which can include federal and state, are intended to protect employees but can be easily violated by employers. An employment lawyer can explain an employee’s rights to them and represent them in legal proceedings. In addition, an employment lawyer will work to gather information about the employer’s violations and make a case that best defends your rights. 

When Would I Need an Employment Lawyer?

There are many instances when an employment lawyer’s services are helpful to employees whose rights have been violated. Here are some common reasons why someone might hire an employment lawyer:

• Wrongful Termination 

In Ohio, there are laws in place that prevent employers from firing employees for illegal reasons. If an employer has fired an employee unlawfully, an employment attorney may be able to help recover lost wages or other forms of compensation. 

• Employee Discrimination

Treating an employee unfairly based on factors such as race, gender, or age is considered employee discrimination. Employees have legal protections against discrimination, and any employer that is found to be discriminatory towards employees can have serious consequences. 

• Failure to be Paid Appropriately 

Employee contracts will specify how much an employee should be paid, including any overtime pay as qualified. If an employer fails to pay their employee appropriately or abide by minimum wage laws, they have violated worker laws. 

• Employment Agreements

Employers sometimes require employees to sign agreements as part of the hiring process. These agreements can outline the terms and conditions of employment, employee benefits, and requirements for terminating an employee. If these agreements are violated, an employment lawyer may be able to assist an employee in ensuring that their employee is held accountable.

• Sexual Harassment 

Sexual harassment can consist of unwanted sexual advances and verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature in the workplace. It is unlawful to sexually harass employees for any reason. If this occurs, an employee can seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.

What Can I Expect in My First Meeting?

Though a meeting with an employment lawyer may seem intimidating, it can be viewed as an opportunity for employees to share details about their experience so the attorney has an in-depth understanding of the situation. An employment lawyer will listen to the situation that has occurred and help identify what laws have been violated. Individuals should expect the lawyer to ask questions about their employer and workplace to gather evidence to use in court, should there need to be court intervention. The lawyer can help identify the next steps that need to take place and the best possible course of action.

To help your meeting go smoothly, employees should come prepared with the details of their situation and any supporting evidence that would help their case. For example, if an employee has experienced discrimination, they should bring any documentation that can help prove this has occurred. The more information that is brought to the meeting will further help the lawyer craft an effective plan.

Contact a Trusted Ohio Lawyer Today

If you are in need of an employment lawyer’s services, our team at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC. is here to help. Contact our team today to learn more about our services.