Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Rochester

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Rochester, United States

Founded in 2012
English
The Seidell Law Firm, led by Seth T. Seidell, is a Michigan-based law practice specializing in employment law and business law for individuals and small businesses. The firm emphasizes practical, affordable legal solutions tailored to client needs in Oakland, Macomb, Genesee, and Wayne counties.In...
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United States Employment & Labor Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 4 legal questions about Employment & Labor in United States and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Do I have a discrimination case
Employment & Labor
Everything was good at work then I have an accident and cracked my spine and need surgery and off for a year. They didn’t want me back b.c I was a liability. I was getting written up all the time after I came back. Hit the 2 year mark back... Read more →
Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari

Hello, I read your post and I am sorry to hear about the difficult situation you've been through with your employer following your accident. Returning to work after such a serious injury only to face disciplinary action and termination sounds...

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1 answer
Can I still file a lawsuit?
Employment & Labor
If I did not file an EEO in a timely manner because I was not aware. Can I still file a lawsuit?
Lawyer answer by Islaw - Expert Lawyers

Hi, Typically, you must file an EEO complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days from the date of the discriminatory act. However, if your employer is a state or local government entity, you have 300 days...

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1 answer
Hi, I like to get the information about my deceased sister government pension in Sind Govt.
Elder Law Will & Testament Employment & Labor
I am living in usa and my sister was the govt employee in pakistan about 25 to 27 years. she was unmarried and my parents also passed. I like to know who will the benifits after her death. She passed during her job. I really appreciate it if you guide... Read more →
Lawyer answer by A A Abdullahi Law Firm

Hello, Her next of kin will be you and so you shall be the one to receive the benefits and her properties. You can contact us vfor assistance on the documentation and procession

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1 answer

United States Employment & Labor Legal Articles

Browse our 8 legal articles about Employment & Labor in United States written by expert lawyers.

Are Non-Competes Enforceable in New York?
Employment & Labor
Non-competes are still legal in New York and most of the United States, but courts apply strict scrutiny and often refuse to enforce broad, form agreements. Governor Hochul vetoed New York's broad non-compete ban (often referenced as S4641A / S3100A) in December 2023, so as of my last update there... Read more →
The Clean Slate Act NY Background Checks 2026 United States
Employment & Labor
Clean Slate laws in the United States automatically seal many low-level misdemeanors and some non-violent felonies after a crime-free period, so employers should expect background reports to show fewer records for many applicants. Employers generally may only ask about and rely on criminal convictions and pending charges that are not... Read more →
Hiring Contractors in United States NY Freelance Isn't Free Act 2026
Employment & Labor
In the United States, most workers are "at will," but federal and state laws strictly regulate wages, overtime, discrimination, retaliation, and union rights. Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can trigger back wages, taxes, penalties, and class actions, often costing many times the original savings. New York's Freelance Isn't Free Act,... Read more →

About Employment & Labor Law in Rochester, United States

Employment and labor law in Rochester, New York, governs the relationship between workers and employers in the region. It covers wages, hours, workplace safety, discrimination, leave entitlements, and the right to organize. In Rochester, state and federal laws complement each other, so workers can pursue claims under both New York law and federal statutes when appropriate.

Most Rochester cases involve wage and hour rules, employee misclassification, retaliation, discrimination, and leaves of absence. Employers in Rochester must comply with wage notices, overtime rules, safety standards, and anti-discrimination protections. A Rochester attorney can help you understand which laws apply to your specific job, industry, and circumstances.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • A Rochester factory worker is not paid overtime after a 50-hour week and alleges improper classification as an exempt employee. A lawyer can evaluate classification, hours worked, and wage calculations to pursue back pay.

  • An employee in a Rochester nonprofit receives final pay late and is only partially paid for hours worked in the last two pay periods. An attorney can enforce timely wage payments and remedies under state law.

  • A Rochester hospital employee faces retaliation after reporting patient safety concerns. A labor attorney can assess retaliation protections under state and federal law and pursue remedies.

  • A worker suspects unlawful discrimination based on age, race, or disability in a Rochester company. A lawyer can help file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or pursue state law claims.

  • A gig worker in Rochester is misclassified as an independent contractor. A lawyer can evaluate control, economic realities, and contract terms to determine proper classification and potential remedies.

  • An employee wants to take Paid Family Leave to care for a family member in Rochester. An attorney can explain eligibility, documentation, and how leave interacts with job protection and wage replacement.

Local Laws Overview

New York Labor Law Article 6 - Payment of Wages

This law governs how employers in New York pay employees, including frequency of pay, permissible deductions, and final pay when employment ends. It creates baseline expectations for Rochester workplaces and helps workers recover earned wages if an employer violates rules.

Source: New York Department of Labor - Wage requirements, pay frequency, and wage deductions are outlined in state law. https://www.labor.ny.gov

New York Labor Law § 195 - Wage Theft Prevention Act

The Wage Theft Prevention Act requires employers to provide written wage notices at hire and whenever wage changes occur, as well as maintain payroll records for a specified period. This helps Rochester workers verify pay practices and protect against wage theft.

Source: New York Department of Labor - Wage Theft Prevention Act obligations include wage notices and record-keeping. https://www.labor.ny.gov

New York Paid Family Leave (PFL)

New York Paid Family Leave provides protected leave for qualifying events, with partial wage replacement funded through payroll deductions. PFL became available to employees in Rochester as part of state wide implementation starting in 2018, with a standard benefit framework and eligibility rules published by the state.

For up-to-date guidance, visit the official PFL site and review eligibility, documentation, and interaction with other leave types.

Source: New York Paid Family Leave information and eligibility guidelines. https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/

Recent trends include stronger enforcement of wage and hour laws by the state and federal agencies, and ongoing updates to leave programs and disability protections. For Rochester residents, these changes mean that accurate wage notices, timely payments, and clear leave options are increasingly enforceable with documented evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an employee and an independent contractor in New York?

In New York, employee status depends on the degree of control a company has over work, the worker’s opportunity for profit, and whether the work is integrated into the employer’s regular business. Independent contractors generally set their own hours and use their own tools. Misclassification can lead to wage and benefits violations for employers and lost protections for workers.

How do I file a wage theft complaint in Rochester, NY?

Start with the New York Department of Labor's Wage Theft Prevention Act resources and your employer's payroll records. If you suspect a violation, you can contact the state to file a complaint and pursue damages or back wages with legal help.

What is the minimum wage in upstate New York for 2024?

New York state sets minimum wages that differ by region and employer size. Upstate rates are published by the New York Department of Labor and can change annually. Check the official site for the current schedule to confirm your rate.

Do I need a lawyer for a simple overtime dispute?

If you believe you have been mispaid for overtime, a lawyer can review time records, pay stubs, and job duties to determine if overtime rules were violated. Complex factors such as exemptions and combined pay can require legal interpretation.

How long does a typical wage claim take to resolve in New York?

Resolution times vary by case, from a few weeks for informal settlements to several months for formal complaints and hearings. An attorney can help manage timeline expectations and advise on faster routes like mediation when appropriate.

What is Paid Family Leave and how can I use it in Rochester?

PFL provides paid, job-protected leave for eligible events such as caring for a new child or a family member with a serious health condition. You must file with the proper forms and follow notice requirements. A lawyer can assist with eligibility verification and documentation.

Is retaliation protected under New York and federal law?

Yes. Both New York state law and federal law prohibit retaliation against employees who report violations or participate in investigations. If you experience retaliation, you should document incidents and consult a lawyer promptly.

What is the process to file an Equal Employment Opportunity complaint?

You can file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or with the New York State Division of Human Rights. A lawyer can help prepare the complaint, gather evidence, and pursue investigation or litigation if needed.

How much do Employment & Labor lawyers in Rochester typically charge?

Lawyer fees vary by experience, case complexity, and billing method. Some lawyers offer free initial consultations or work on a contingency basis for certain claims, while others bill hourly. Clarify fees before engagement.

What is the difference between state and federal overtime rules?

The Fair Labor Standards Act sets federal overtime rules, typically requiring overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. New York state law may add or tailor protections in certain industries, so both systems can apply and require careful analysis by a lawyer.

Can I sue my employer for wrongfully terminating me in Rochester?

Yes, if termination violated state or federal anti-discrimination laws, public policy, or contract rights. A lawyer can assess whether you have a viable claim, including damages and potential remedies.

Where can I find official employment law resources in New York?

Official resources include the New York Department of Labor and the Paid Family Leave site. For federal guidance, the U.S. Department of Labor and EEOC pages provide enforcement and guidance materials.

Additional Resources

Next Steps

  1. Identify the core issue and your objective (for example, back wages, overtime, or protection from retaliation). Set a realistic timeline based on your employer’s payroll cycle and any applicable statutes of limitations.

  2. Gather evidence and documents: pay stubs, timesheets, contracts, emails, personnel files, and any notices about wage changes or disciplinary actions. Organize them by issue for quick review.

  3. Research Rochester employment lawyers with expertise in labor and wage claims. Check local bar associations and referral services for vetted candidates who handle cases like yours.

  4. Schedule initial consultations to discuss your case, ask about experience in similar Rochester matters, and confirm fee structures. Bring your documentation and a list of questions.

  5. Ask about fees, timelines, and possible outcomes. Discuss whether the firm offers contingency arrangements for certain wage or discrimination claims.

  6. Choose the attorney, sign an engagement letter, and establish a plan with milestones. Confirm expected communications cadence and a realistic case timeline.

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Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.