Best Employer Lawyers in Turku

About Employer Law in Turku, Finland

Employer law in Turku, Finland is governed by national legislation but also influenced by collective agreements and local practices. The key areas of employer law include employment contracts, working conditions, occupational safety, employee rights, and obligations for both employers and employees. Finnish labor legislation is designed to protect employees while also ensuring that employers can operate efficiently and fairly. Employers in Turku must comply with the Employment Contracts Act, Working Hours Act, Annual Holidays Act, and other relevant laws. Local trade unions and employer associations play a significant role in interpreting and enforcing these regulations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which an employer in Turku, Finland may require legal assistance:

• Drafting and reviewing employment contracts to ensure compliance with Finnish labor law and collective agreements.
• Handling disputes with employees, such as issues related to dismissal, redundancies, and workplace discrimination claims.
• Advising on restructuring, mergers, or business transfers that affect staff and employment relationships.
• Navigating the complexities of collective bargaining agreements and labor union negotiations.
• Ensuring compliance with regulations related to working hours, overtime, and annual leaves.
• Advising on occupational health and safety responsibilities.
• Managing immigration matters when hiring foreign staff.
• Assisting with investigations into alleged workplace misconduct or harassment.
• Defending against claims filed by current or former employees.
• Ensuring GDPR compliance regarding employee data handling.

Local Laws Overview

Employers in Turku must follow Finnish labor legislation in addition to any specific provisions found in sectoral collective bargaining agreements. Key aspects include:

• Employment Contracts: Must be in writing if so requested by the employee. They should stipulate essential terms such as job duties, salary, and termination procedures.
• Working Hours: The Working Hours Act regulates standard and maximum working hours, rest periods, and rules for overtime.
• Annual Leave: The Annual Holidays Act entitles employees to paid holiday based on length of employment, typically a minimum of 2 to 2.5 days per month worked.
• Equality: The Non-Discrimination Act and the Act on Equality between Women and Men set out obligations for equal treatment and non-discrimination in the workplace.
• Termination: There are strict rules regarding termination. Grounds must be justifiable, and procedures carefully followed to avoid unlawful dismissal claims.
• Occupational Safety: Employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment. Obligations are detailed in the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
• Collective Agreements: These agreements, negotiated with trade unions, often supplement or add to statutory minimum terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What must be included in an employment contract in Finland?

Essential terms such as job title, duties, salary, working hours, location, and notice periods for termination or resignation must be specified. While contracts can be verbal, written contracts are strongly recommended and required if requested by the employee.

Can I hire foreign employees in Turku?

Yes, but you must ensure the employee has the right to work in Finland. This often means verifying permits for non-EU nationals. Some sectors may have additional requirements.

How much notice do I need to give when terminating an employee?

Notice periods depend on both law and the specific employment contract. Typically, notice ranges from 14 days to six months, determined by the length of employment and terms agreed.

What are my obligations concerning workplace safety?

You must assess and mitigate risks, provide safety training, and comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Regular workplace inspections and addressing hazards are required.

What rules exist for working hours and overtime?

The maximum regular working time is 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, with overtime only by mutual agreement and subject to additional compensation as outlined in the Working Hours Act.

How are annual holidays accrued?

Employees typically earn 2 days (first year) or 2.5 days (after one year) of paid annual leave per month worked, under the Annual Holidays Act. Public holidays are additional.

What should I do if an employee claims discrimination?

Investigate the matter promptly and impartially. Ensure compliance with the Non-Discrimination Act and the Act on Equality between Women and Men. Seek legal advice if necessary, as non-compliance could result in legal claims.

Am I required to follow collective bargaining agreements?

Yes, if your sector or company is covered by a nationally or locally binding collective agreement, you must abide by its terms even if your business is not a member of an employer association.

Can an employee appeal their dismissal?

Yes, employees can challenge their termination and seek remedies through local courts or the labor dispute board if they believe it was unjustified or not handled according to proper procedure.

How should employee data be handled?

You must comply with GDPR and Finnish data protection laws. Employee data should be collected only for legitimate business uses, stored securely, and shared only as permitted by law.

Additional Resources

Here are some useful resources for employers in Turku, Finland:

• Regional offices of Työsuojelu (Occupational Safety and Health Authority)
• Central Organisation of Finnish Trade Unions (SAK) and Finland Chamber of Commerce
• Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland
• Kela - The Social Insurance Institution of Finland (regarding employee benefits)
• Finland Immigration Service for international employment matters
• Local business advisory services, such as Turku Business Region
• Regional Employment and Economic Development Offices (TE-palvelut)

Next Steps

If you require further legal assistance as an employer in Turku, consider the following actions:

• Consult with a legal professional specializing in Finnish labor law. Many lawyers offer initial consultations to assess your needs.
• Gather all relevant documents, such as employment contracts, policies, and any correspondence related to your issue.
• Reach out to local employer organizations or business chambers for additional guidance and referrals.
• Stay informed about any changes in employment law that may impact your obligations or business practices.
• Plan for ongoing compliance by reviewing your HR policies and practices regularly with legal counsel.

Seeking professional legal advice early can help prevent costly disputes and ensure your business remains compliant with Finnish employment laws.