Employment law concerns can arise in the workplace at any stage of an employee’s tenure. They may occur during the interview process, in a termination meeting, when an employee files a discrimination or wage and hour complaint or tries to exercise their legal rights under a union contract. In any of these situations, it’s often a good idea to seek the advice of an experienced employment lawyer.

Employment lawyers can help both employees and employers deal with these issues. Employers should consult a labor and employment attorney on a routine basis to assess their compliance with applicable regulations, especially those concerning wage and hour laws, OSHA requirements and other federal and state rules. This is also a good idea when making changes that may impact a significant number of workers, such as changing a pay scale or discontinuing a benefit.

A worker may need an employment lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim, defend against an adverse administrative decision or appeal a denied claim. They can also assist in unionization efforts, as well as advise on the proper use of disciplinary action or discipline.

If you are an employer in need of a good employment attorney, it’s best to start with a referral from someone you trust. A large firm or a lawyer with a substantial following on social media is usually a safe bet. In addition, you might consider searching for a member of the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) or a statewide association that focuses on representing employees. The attorneys who belong to these groups are typically highly regarded in their field. When you meet with the attorney, observe how he responds to your questions and whether his litigation philosophy seems a good fit for your needs.    employment law advice