On April 17, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Muldrow v. City of St. Louis that employees do not need “significant” harm to bring Title VII Civil Rights Act claims. This decision has given employees more courage to speak up now that the threshold to sue for discrimination in the workplace has lowered, according to SHRM.org.
Employees need to understand their rights. An Orange County employment law attorney says employees can stand up for themselves in case of discrimination. Legal professionals can help employees receive fair treatment at work in wrongful termination cases, wage disputes, or harassment.
Employment law attorneys protect workers from unfair practices by negotiating severance agreements, filing claims against employers, and representing clients in court.
Here are some of the advantages of hiring an employment law attorney to advocate for a worker’s workplace rights.
Knowing Your Rights in the Workplace
Workplace law can be complicated so you must equip yourself with knowledge about your company policies and state labor laws. With this, you can gain the courage to voice your grievances and fight for them.
Employees must feel safe in the workplace. It is supposed to be an area where you can work with peace and feel secure and away from discrimination and harassment.
If in case you suspect a violation of employee rights, promptly seek advice from an employment law attorney to fully understand your options.
Handling Discrimination Claims
Employees should also be protected from discrimination in the workplace. If you suspect any form of discrimination based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, or age, take action immediately.
Before filing a complaint, first, you must learn the policies in the workplace. Don’t forget to document all the details of your claim, like the dates and time of the incident. Also, collect witness accounts to support your claim.
In case you feel uncomfortable submitting your complaint, you may seek the help of an employee attorney to assist you with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or state agency complaint forms.
With their expertise, you can be assured that your workplace discrimination case will be addressed accordingly.
Representing You in Wrongful Termination Cases
In the case of a wrongful termination, immediately seek help from an employment law attorney to examine your case. He or she can also help you gather some evidence to determine which law applies.
Your attorney can also prepare case documentation for you to argue a violation of your employment contract. Plus, he or she can represent you in hearings and mediation if the case proceeds to that.
Negotiating Employment Contracts and Settlements
Lawyers can help you understand the clauses in your employment contract. With their expertise, they can help you negotiate employment disputes, contracts, personal injury suits, and settlements.
Legal professionals can quickly identify the main issues that concern you. They will negotiate your wages, benefits and even termination clauses. They will ensure that you receive a fair settlement or compensation that truly reflects your value, both tangible and intangible.
Preparing for Court: What to Expect
Most people fear facing the court. This is especially true as legal processes are usually unknown territory for most people. Additionally, legal authorities can be intimidating.
You can make fewer mistakes if you know what to expect inside the courtroom. Fewer mistakes means a better chance for your claim to be heard, so you have to pay attention to courtroom etiquette.
It is also important to arrive in court ahead of time. This simple act does not only earn respect, but also gives you enough time to calm your nerves if you are feeling nervous.
Always listen to the advice of your attorney, as they have more knowledge on how to behave in these situations. And don’t forget to dress appropriately.
Be confident when answering questions. If you are calm during this ordeal, you can better articulate your claim so that your statements are understood.
Inform your lawyer of every relevant piece of information to help them build a strong case for you. As your main legal advocate, lawyers will exhaust every possible means of securing a favorable outcome for your case.
