Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Texas, United States Attorneys in related practice areas.
Refine your search by selecting a city.
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 Texas covers the rules and regulations that define the relationship between employers and employees. This field addresses various aspects such as wages, hours, workplace rights, benefits, discrimination, wrongful termination, workplace safety, and collective bargaining for unionized workers. Texas adheres to both federal and state laws in these matters, and some local jurisdictions may set additional rules. The laws are designed to protect both employee and employer interests, and understanding these rules is critical for all parties in the workplace.
There are several situations where consulting an employment and labor lawyer can protect your interests or help you resolve workplace disputes. Common scenarios include:
Texas employment and labor laws have some distinct features compared to other states. Some key aspects include:
At-will employment means that either the employer or employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, as long as the reason is not illegal. There are exceptions for terminations that violate discrimination laws, employment contracts, or public policy.
Texas follows the federal minimum wage, which is currently $7.25 per hour. Federal and state laws also require overtime pay, meal and rest breaks in some cases, and protect against unlawful deductions from paychecks.
In most situations, yes, since Texas is an at-will state. However, you cannot be fired for discriminatory reasons, retaliation for protected activities, or in violation of an employment contract.
If you face discrimination, report it to your employer first, according to company policy. If the issue persists, you may file a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Texas state law does not require private employers to provide paid sick leave. However, some cities and employers may offer paid or unpaid sick leave as a benefit.
Non-compete agreements are enforceable in Texas if they are reasonable in time, scope, and geography, and supported by adequate consideration such as access to confidential information or special training.
Employees with wage disputes can file a wage claim with the Texas Workforce Commission within 180 days of the violation. The Commission will investigate and issue a decision.
Undocumented workers are generally protected by federal and state wage and workplace safety laws, though immigration status can affect available remedies.
Texas law does not require employers to provide breaks, but federal law requires breaks under certain circumstances, especially for nursing mothers and minors.
If you encounter unsafe conditions, report them to your employer, and, if not resolved, file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation.
If you need legal assistance regarding an employment or labor issue in Texas, start by documenting your situation in detail and gathering any relevant documents, such as employment contracts, emails, pay stubs, and company policies. Consult a qualified employment and labor lawyer familiar with Texas law for a case assessment. You can seek help through the State Bar of Texas, a local legal aid organization, or your community’s lawyer referral service. Timely action is important, as there are deadlines for filing many types of workplace complaints or claims. Do not hesitate to ask about free consultations or payment plans if cost is a concern.
