Work is supposed to be a safe place. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too. For many employees, this isn’t the case. In fact, one in ten workers have reported feeling unsafe at work in the US. This is a staggering statistic – one that should have more focus upon it.
But even when you feel unsafe at work, it could be difficult to know how to act. After all, if the previous statistic is rarely mentioned, then the after effects would be treated similarly, right? There are so many issues at work that might lead to you feeling insecure in your position, from hostile work relationships to unfair job loss.
And that’s where this article steps in. Below, you will learn three signs that you require legal assistance at work.
1. Your Employer Presents a Severance Agreement
Have you been handed a severance agreement? Such a contract typically provides workers with extended health benefits, financial compensation, and the like as they depart. In most cases, you are required to waive your right to sue the company if you sign.
As you can imagine, there could be hidden traps in the contract. This is why an employment lawyer is necessary. An attorney will have the experience to review the exact legal rights you are surrendering. They will also decode any clauses that are included, ensuring your future career isn’t hindered.
An experienced lawyer in the employment field could even secure better benefits, like higher severance payouts and better references.
2. You Face Wrongful Termination
Proving wrongful termination in the US is tricky. Many states operate under “at-will” employment. This means an employer has the power to fire an employee, or an employee could quit, at any time. There’s no need for cause or notice. The only state in the US that doesn’t operate this way is Montana.
It should be pretty obvious why you might need a lawyer in this situation. Maybe you have been fired for an illegal reason, such as your gender or race. This could violate federal or state laws. Or maybe you were offered a severance package to sweeten the deal, and there could be hidden restrictions there. Either way, you could need a lawyer.
Look at your local laws here. In Sacramento, for example, the City of Sacramento Office of Labor Standards Enforcement ensures minimum wage, paid sick leave, and workplace standards are met. This is good. However, you should also contact a law office which has experience advocating for Sacramento workers if you are unsure.
3. You Experience Severe Discrimination
Unfortunately, discrimination still appears in some workplaces. If you are unlucky enough to be treated differently because of your age, gender, race, or some other protected characteristic at work, then you certainly need legal help. After all, proving discrimination is no easy feat.
In most cases, concrete proof is required. A lawyer will help with this. They will guide you through securing relevant proof – emails, text messages, and such. Your chosen attorney will help subpoena records and conduct depositions, all before your employer can alter or delete them.
The lawyer you work with will also be aware of any deadlines. You might be unaware that you need to file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 to 300 days of the incident, but your attorney will tell you this.
To conclude, seeking legal assistance with workplace issues is crucial at times. Although many workplaces are improving and becoming safer for all employees, there are specific incidents to be aware of. Only knowing the signs will help you.
