Best Employer Lawyers in Arkansas

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Friday Eldredge & Clark LLP
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 1871
500 people in their team
English
FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK, LLP  is a full-service law firm representing businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, government entities and individual clients in Arkansas and across the United States. The firm is the largest in Arkansas with 90 attorneys and 100 support...
Munson, Rowlett, Moore & Boone, P.A.
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
THE FIRMMunson, Rowlett, Moore & Breeding, P.A., was established in 1984.MRMB Law Firm is a boutique Arkansas law firm that specializes in civil litigation and appellate work.  The firm is selective in both its attorneys and its clients.  The firm’s unwavering dedication to quality...

Founded in 1954
200 people in their team
English
Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. is a full-service law firm with Arkansas roots and national reach. For more than 70 years, we have delivered sophisticated legal counsel to individuals, entities and corporations for everything from day-to-day business needs to the most...
Conner & Winters, LLP
Fayetteville, United States

Founded in 1933
200 people in their team
English
Conner & Winters was founded in 1933 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Benjamin C. Conner and John M. Winters, Jr. The young firm was dealt a temporary setback when, on the day following formation of the partnership, President Franklin D. Roosevelt closed every bank in the nation by executive order,...
Fuqua Campbell, P.A.
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
At Fuqua Campbell, P.A., we are committed to serving the litigation, transactional and advisory needs of individuals, businesses and government entities. We are a well-established law firm made up of talented and dedicated attorneys, paralegals and staff. We combine state-of-the-art tools with...
Wright Lindsey Jennings
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 1900
200 people in their team
English
Many things have changed since 1900. Our focus on the individual needs of clients isn’t one of them. With more than 120 years of tradition to guide us, it’s our commitment to service and professionalism that has established Wright Lindsey Jennings as one of the premier law firms in Arkansas,...
Lax, Vaughan, Fortson, Rowe & Threet, P.A.
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 1989
50 people in their team
English
Our HistoryLax, Vaughan, Fortson, Rowe & Threet, P.A. has been providing legal counsel to its clients since 1989. Michael F. Lax and Thomas C. Vaughan, Jr. partnered in the firm over thirty years ago after practicing with one of the oldest and largest law firms in Arkansas. Seven of our nine...
Hall Booth Smith, P.C.
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 1989
1,000 people in their team
English
Our FirmEstablished in 1989, Hall Booth Smith, P.C. (HBS) is a full-service law firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with regional offices strategically located throughout Georgia and the United States. Experienced across a wide range of legal disciplines, HBS prides itself on providing...
Davis, Butt, Taylor & Clark, PLC
Fayetteville, United States

Founded in 1960
50 people in their team
English
We are……a law firm that enjoys the best attributes of both small and large firms - close relationships within the firm and with individual clients, the ability to provide clients a wide array of legal services, and the ability to use a team approach with complex and multi-party litigation,...
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About Employer Law in Arkansas, United States

Employer law in Arkansas covers a broad spectrum of regulations and legal requirements that govern the relationship between employers and employees. These laws address hiring, firing, workplace safety, wage and hour standards, discrimination, benefits, and various contractual obligations. Employer law in Arkansas is shaped by both state statutes and federal laws, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Arkansas Civil Rights Act. Staying compliant with these laws is critical for businesses of all sizes to foster a fair and lawful work environment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Several situations may require the guidance of an experienced employer lawyer in Arkansas:

  • Drafting or reviewing employment contracts and employee handbooks
  • Navigating complex terminations or layoffs to minimize legal risk
  • Defending against allegations of discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination
  • Responding to wage and hour claims or Department of Labor investigations
  • Advising on workplace policies in compliance with federal and state laws
  • Addressing workplace injuries and workers' compensation claims
  • Managing disputes involving non-compete agreements or trade secrets
  • Helping with investigations or audits from regulatory agencies

Consulting a knowledgeable lawyer helps employers avoid costly litigation, maintain compliance, and resolve disputes efficiently.

Local Laws Overview

Arkansas has specific employment laws that every employer should understand:

  • At-will Employment: Arkansas is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can terminate employees at any time for any legal reason, except where prohibited by law (such as discrimination or retaliation).
  • Minimum Wage: Arkansas sets its own minimum wage, which may be higher than the federal minimum wage. Employers must comply with whichever rate is greater.
  • Wage and Hour Laws: Overtime pay and recordkeeping rules are set by both state and federal law. Non-exempt employees must typically receive overtime for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
  • Discrimination Protections: Arkansas law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, and disability. The Arkansas Civil Rights Act extends protections similar to federal law.
  • Workers' Compensation: Most Arkansas employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance to cover workplace injuries and illnesses.
  • Family and Medical Leave: While Arkansas does not have its own family and medical leave laws, employers must follow the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requirements if they meet the size threshold.
  • Child Labor Laws: Additional rules protect minors in the workforce, limiting working hours and hazardous job duties.
  • Workplace Safety: Employers must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and Arkansas laws regarding workplace safety.

Staying informed about these laws is essential for legal compliance and fostering positive workplace relations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arkansas employers required to provide breaks or meal periods?

No, Arkansas law does not require employers to provide breaks or meal periods. However, federal law requires that if short breaks are given, they must be paid.

What is the current minimum wage in Arkansas?

As of 2024, the Arkansas minimum wage is 11.00 dollars per hour. Employers must pay at least this rate unless federal law requires a higher rate.

Can an employer fire someone without a reason in Arkansas?

Yes, due to at-will employment, Arkansas employers can terminate employees for any legal reason or no reason at all. However, terminations cannot be for unlawful reasons such as discrimination or retaliation.

How do I file a workplace discrimination complaint in Arkansas?

Employees can file complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing's Civil Rights Division.

Are employers in Arkansas required to have workers' compensation insurance?

Most employers with three or more employees in Arkansas are required to carry workers' compensation insurance, with some exceptions for certain industries and family-run businesses.

Do employers have to provide vacation or sick leave?

No, Arkansas law does not require private employers to provide vacation or sick leave, paid or unpaid. However, if these benefits are promised in an employment contract, employers must honor them.

What notice is required before terminating an employee?

No advance notice is required for termination in Arkansas, unless otherwise specified in a contract or collective bargaining agreement.

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in Arkansas?

Yes, non-compete agreements are generally enforceable if they are reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area, and protect legitimate business interests.

What steps should employers take if served with a lawsuit from a former employee?

Employers should immediately contact a qualified employment lawyer, preserve all relevant documents, and avoid discussing the case with anyone other than legal counsel.

How can small businesses stay compliant with Arkansas employer laws?

Small businesses should regularly review employment practices, keep up-to-date with changing laws, maintain accurate records, and consult an employment lawyer when in doubt.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance, consider reaching out to these Arkansas-specific organizations:

  • Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing
  • Arkansas Civil Rights Commission
  • Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center
  • U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division
  • Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Little Rock Area Office
  • Arkansas Bar Association
  • Legal Aid of Arkansas

Next Steps

If you require legal help as an employer in Arkansas, begin by gathering all relevant documents, such as employment contracts, employee handbooks, disciplinary records, and correspondence. Make detailed notes about the issue you are facing. Contact a reputable local employment lawyer with experience in Arkansas law to schedule a consultation. Describe your situation clearly and be prepared to discuss your business operations, policies, and the specific problem. A lawyer can guide you through your options, help ensure compliance, and represent you in negotiations or proceedings if needed. Staying proactive and seeking legal advice early can help you prevent escalated disputes and protect your business interests.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Arkansas through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Employer, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Arkansas, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.