Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Changi

About Employment & Labor Law in Changi, Singapore

Changi, Singapore operates under the overarching Singapore employment law which is made up of various legislations and guidelines. These laws harmoniously work together to regulate employment conditions and relationships, boosting protection for both employers and employees. They cover a wide span of concerns, including wages, work hours, dismissal rights, and safe working conditions. Laws and protections may vary depending on the contractual agreement, and nationality or residency status of the employee.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Individuals may need a lawyer in several situations. For instance, seeking rightful compensation or benefits from an employer, addressing workplace misconduct or harassment issues, negotiating employment contracts or severance agreements, and wrongful dismissal suits. In addition, businesses also require legal counsel when they need to create solid employment contracts, appropriately handle employee terminations, solve disputes, and navigate employment laws to ensure compliance.

Local Laws Overview

Key employment legislations in Singapore include the Employment Act, which offers basic conditions of employment; the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, which details regulations regarding foreign workers; and the Industrial Relations Act, which looks into the relationship between employers and trade unions. There’s also the Work Injury Compensation Act, offering compensation to employees who have suffered injuries in the course of work. It’s essential to note all employees in Singapore are protected under the Employment Act, regardless of contract type, except managers/executives earning more than $4,500 per month.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are foreign employees protected under Singaporean labor law?

Yes, foreign employees are protected under Singaporean labor law, specifically under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Certain conditions and protections may vary based on the employee's specific permit or pass.

2. Can employees be dismissed without notice?

No, the Employment Act mandates that an employee must receive appropriate notice or be paid in lieu of notice, unless there is misconduct which justifies dismissal without notice.

3. Are there protections against workplace discrimination?

Yes. The Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices prohibit discrimination on the basis of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.

4. Is overtime pay required?

Yes, if the employee is not an executive or managerial role, and their salary does not exceed $2,600, they are entitled to overtime pay.

5. What are the maximum allowable working hours per week?

The legal maximum stipulated is 44 hours per week, not including any overtime which is limited and payable at a higher rate.

Additional Resources

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore is an excellent resource for both employers and employees. It provides clear information on employment conditions, rights, and obligations. The Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) is another resource that encourages and enforces fair employment practices in Singapore.

Next Steps

If you find that you need legal assistance, it's highly recommended to consult with an attorney specializing in labor law. Remember to collect and organize any potential evidence for your claims such as contracts, emails, witness testimonials, and so on. Lastly, it's always advisable to maintain open lines of communication, and try to resolve the issue amicably with the other party before involving attorneys and courts.