Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Baltimore

About Employment & Labor Law in Baltimore, United States

Employment & Labor law in Baltimore, United States governs the relationship between employers and employees, ensuring fair treatment and protection of workers' rights. The law covers aspects such as hiring, wages, working conditions, safety, discrimination, and termination. It aims to maintain a balanced and equitable working environment for both employers and employees.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where seeking legal help in Employment & Labor is advisable:

• If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated
• If you have faced workplace discrimination or harassment
• If your employer has violated wage and hour laws
• If you have suffered work-related injuries and need assistance with workers' compensation
• If you need guidance on negotiating employment contracts or severance agreements

Local Laws Overview

In Baltimore, United States, several local laws are particularly relevant to Employment & Labor:

• The Maryland Wage and Hour Law: Sets standards for minimum wage, overtime, and timing of pay
• The Fair Employment Practices law: Prohibits workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information
• The Maryland Workers' Compensation Act: Provides benefits to employees injured in the course of their employment
• The Family and Medical Leave Act: Enables eligible employees to take unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my employer fire me without a valid reason?

Unless you are employed under a contract with specific terms, employment in Baltimore is generally considered "at-will." This means your employer can terminate your employment for any reason, as long as it is not discriminatory or against public policy.

2. How do I report workplace discrimination?

If you have experienced workplace discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Consulting a lawyer can help you understand and navigate the process.

3. What should I do if I am injured at work?

Report your injury to your employer immediately and seek medical attention. In Baltimore, employers are required to have workers' compensation insurance. Consult with a lawyer to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

4. What is the minimum wage in Baltimore?

As of January 1, 2022, the minimum wage in Baltimore is $15.00 per hour for employers with 51 or more employees, and $14.00 per hour for employers with 50 or fewer employees.

5. Can my employer refuse to grant me family or medical leave?

No, eligible employees are entitled to take unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). However, specific conditions and guidelines apply. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure compliance.

Additional Resources

For further information and assistance regarding Employment & Labor issues in Baltimore, United States, consider contacting:

• The Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation
• The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights
• The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Baltimore Field Office

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in Employment & Labor matters in Baltimore, United States, the recommended course of action is to:

1. Consult with an experienced Employment & Labor attorney to assess your situation
2. Gather and organize any relevant documentation or evidence related to your case
3. Discuss potential strategies and options for resolution with your attorney
4. Follow the advice of your attorney and proceed with appropriate legal actions, such as filing complaints or pursuing litigation if necessary