At DGP Law Firm, we understand that your job is more than just a paycheck; it’s a significant part of your life. When issues arise at work, whether it’s a dispute with your employer or concerns about your rights, it can be stressful and confusing. Our Somerville labor and employment lawyers are here to help clear things up and help you move forward.
Our team is here to help you understand your rights and find solutions that work for you. We focus on both labor and employment law, which sets us apart from other firms. This dual focus allows us to provide comprehensive support to our clients, ensuring that all aspects of your work life are protected.
Understanding Your Rights as an Employee
As an employee, you have rights that protect you from unfair treatment. These rights include protection against discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. If you feel that your employer is not treating you fairly, it’s important to know that you have options.
We have various labor attorneys on our team in Somerville, MA, who can help you understand how to assert your rights as an employee:
- Somerville Employee Benefits ERISA Lawyer: These lawyers assist clients in managing the complexities of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), ensuring compliance, and protecting their rights to pensions, health insurance, and other employee benefits.
- Somerville Employment Contract Dispute Lawyer: These attorneys focus on resolving conflicts related to employment contracts, addressing issues of breach, interpretation, and enforcement, and helping clients understand their rights and obligations under the agreements they have signed.
- Somerville Employment Discrimination Lawyer: Committed to fighting against workplace discrimination, these lawyers represent employees who have experienced unfair treatment based on race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics, advocating for justice and equality in the workplace.
- Somerville Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Lawyer: These legal professionals help employees understand and exercise their rights under the FMLA, ensuring they can take necessary leave for family or medical reasons without fear of retaliation or job loss.
- Somerville OSHA Workplace Health & Safety Claims Lawyer: These lawyers focus on workplace safety. They represent clients in claims related to violations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, advocating for safer working conditions and fair compensation for injuries.
- Somerville Severance Lawyer: These attorneys provide guidance on severance agreements, assist employees in negotiating fair terms and understanding their rights when facing job termination, and ensure they receive appropriate compensation and benefits.
- Somerville Wage Theft & Overtime Pay Dispute Lawyer: These lawyers represent employees in disputes over unpaid wages, overtime compensation, and wage theft, working to recover lost earnings and ensure fair pay for all hours worked.
However, knowing your rights is the first step in standing up for yourself in the workplace.
Key Employee Rights in Sommerville
- Right to Fair Treatment: Every employee deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. This includes being free from discrimination based on race, gender, age, or other protected characteristics.
- Right to a Safe Work Environment: You have the right to work in an environment that is safe and free from harassment. Employers are required to take steps to prevent and address any form of harassment.
- Right to Privacy: While employers have the right to monitor certain activities, you also have a right to privacy in your personal communications and belongings.
- Right to Fair Pay: You should be compensated fairly for your work, including receiving overtime pay when applicable.
- Right to Reasonable Adjustments: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees who have disabilities are entitled to reasonable adjustments that help them effectively carry out their job responsibilities.
- Right to Speak Up: If you see something wrong at work, you have the right to report it without fear of retaliation.
- Right to Family and Medical Leave: Employees in New Bedford are entitled to take leave for family or medical reasons under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This allows you to care for a newborn, adopt a child, or take care of your own serious health condition.
For a free legal consultation with a labor & employment lawyer serving Somerville, call (860) 999-9394
FAQ Section: Workplace Discrimination and Employment Issues
What Is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, disability, or other protected factors. If you believe you have experienced this kind of unfair treatment, it’s important to take action.
What Types of Discrimination Are Grounds for Legal Action?
- Race and Ethnicity: Discrimination based on race or ethnicity can occur in hiring, promotions, and daily workplace interactions.
- Gender and Sexual Orientation: Gender discrimination affects all employees and includes issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Age Discrimination: Older employees may face discrimination in hiring and promotions, which is prohibited under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.
- Disability Discrimination: Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. If your needs aren’t being met, it’s essential to seek help.
What Should I Do if I’m Facing Harassment at Work?
If you experience harassment, it’s crucial to report it and seek assistance. Harassment can create a hostile work environment and may include unwanted comments or inappropriate behavior. Our labor and employment attorneys in Somerville can help you address the situation effectively.
What Types of Workplace Harassment Can I Sue for?
- Sexual Harassment: This includes unwanted advances, inappropriate touching, or suggestive comments.
- Bullying: Workplace bullying can manifest as verbal abuse, intimidation, and undermining your work.
- Retaliation: If you report harassment, your employer should not retaliate against you. If you do, we can help you take action.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination refers to being fired for illegal reasons, such as retaliation for reporting misconduct or discrimination. If you believe your termination was unjust, it’s essential to understand your rights and options.
What Are the Signs of Wrongful Termination?
- Retaliation: If you were fired shortly after reporting illegal activity or discrimination, this may indicate wrongful termination.
- Violation of Contract: If your employment contract specifies certain terms and you were fired in violation of that contract, you may have a case.
- Discrimination: If your termination was based on a protected characteristic, such as race or gender, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Somerville Labor & Employment Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
Get the Help You Need With a Somerville Labor and Employment Lawyer Today
Your job is important, and you deserve to work in an environment where you feel safe and valued.
At DGP Law Firm, we are here to help you understand your employee rights and take action if you are facing employment issues at work. Contact our labor and employment attorneys in Somerville, MA, to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn about us. Together, let’s protect your rights and safeguard your career and your future.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form