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Browse our 6 legal questions about Employment & Labor in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Employment and Labor Law in Houston, as in the entirety of the United States, encompasses an array of laws, rules, regulations, and rulings that protect the rights of employees and govern the relationships between employers and employees. This legal field deals with crucial employment concerns such as discrimination, harassment, wages, workplace safety, and employee benefits. It also includes laws relating to specific employment sectors and different groups of workers, including migrant workers, employees with disabilities, and more.
There are several instances where you may require legal help in Employment & Labor. If you are facing unjust treatment at your workplace, such as discrimination or harassment, a lawyer can guide you on the best course of action. If your employer is not providing due wages, overtime pay, or valid breaks, or if you were wrongfully dismissed, a labor lawyer can help you fight for rights. Lawyers are also needed in case if you become injured at work and face issues in getting compensation or coverage. One more instance is if you are an employer seeking advice on complying with labor laws or handling employee-related disputes.
Houston, Texas, abides by both federal and state laws related to employment and labor. Key aspects include the Texas Labor Code that sets out provisions against retaliation and discrimination. The Texas Payday Law outlines paydays, final pay, and wage rights. There are also important federal laws in play, like the Civil Rights Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADA), and others that govern employment in Houston.
The minimum wage is set by the federal law; currently, it is $7.25 per hour in Houston, Texas.
Workplace discrimination refers to unfair treatment or differential behaviour towards an employee or job applicant based on any protected characteristic such as sex, race, age, nationality, religion, disability, or any other defined category under the law.
Under Texas law, there is no mandatory requirement for employers to provide breaks or lunch periods. But federal laws require specific breaks for underage workers.
You should notify your employer immediately and seek medical attention. In case of disagreement about compensation, you may need to consult with a worker's compensation lawyer.
Texas is an 'at-will' state, meaning employers can terminate employment without providing a reason. However, this does not apply if the termination violates any state or federal laws, for example, due to discrimination or retaliation.
Additional resourceful organizations include the Texas Workforce Commission, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Houston Bar Association, and Labor and Employment Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. Books, legal journals, and online portals like 'The Texas Labor Code' can also be helpful for understanding the specific laws.
If you need legal assistance in Employment & Labor, consider contacting a qualified attorney who specializes in this area. Prepare all relevant documents and information about your case in advance of your consultation. Remember, it's crucial to act promptly as-many labor and employment law issues are time-sensitive. Additionally, do stay informed about your rights and the responsibilities of your employer as per the local and federal laws.
