Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Portsmouth

About Employment & Labor Law in Portsmouth, United States

Employment & Labor law in Portsmouth, United States governs the legal rights and duties between employers and employees. It covers a wide range of issues such as wages, benefits, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and workplace safety.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer specializing in Employment & Labor law in Portsmouth if you are facing issues such as wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, wage disputes, or if you need help negotiating employment contracts or severance agreements.

Local Laws Overview

In Portsmouth, key aspects of local laws related to Employment & Labor include the Virginia Human Rights Act which prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, religion, and other protected characteristics, as well as the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program which sets standards for workplace safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my employer fire me without cause?

In Portsmouth, Virginia is an "at-will" employment state, which means that employers can generally terminate employees for any reason as long as it is not illegal (such as discrimination).

2. What constitutes workplace discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly or harassed based on their race, gender, age, disability, religion, or other protected characteristic.

3. How do I file a complaint for workplace harassment?

You can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Virginia Division of Human Rights if you believe you are a victim of workplace harassment.

4. What are my rights regarding wages and overtime pay?

Employees in Portsmouth have the right to receive minimum wage, overtime pay, and breaks as mandated by federal and state labor laws.

5. Can I negotiate my employment contract or severance agreement?

Yes, you can negotiate the terms of your employment contract or severance agreement with the help of an Employment & Labor lawyer to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.

6. What should I do if I believe I have been wrongfully terminated?

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, you should consult with an Employment & Labor lawyer to determine if you have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit.

7. How do I report workplace safety violations?

You can report workplace safety violations to the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

8. Can I be retaliated against for reporting workplace violations?

No, it is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for reporting workplace violations or participating in workplace safety investigations.

9. What are my rights as a pregnant employee?

Pregnant employees in Portsmouth are entitled to reasonable accommodations for their pregnancy, maternity leave, and protection against pregnancy discrimination under federal and state laws.

10. How can I find a reputable Employment & Labor lawyer in Portsmouth?

You can ask for referrals from friends, family, or colleagues, search online legal directories, or contact the Virginia State Bar for a list of qualified Employment & Labor lawyers in Portsmouth.

Additional Resources

For additional resources related to Employment & Labor law in Portsmouth, you can contact the Virginia Division of Human Rights, the Virginia Employment Commission, or the Portsmouth City Attorney's Office for guidance and assistance.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in Employment & Labor matters in Portsmouth, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer who specializes in this area of law. They can assess your situation, provide legal advice, and help you navigate the complex legal processes to protect your rights and interests.