Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Kyoto

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Yamamuratadao Law Office

Yamamuratadao Law Office

Kyoto, Japan

Founded in 1990
50 people in their team
Our firm was established in April 1990 by attorney Tadao Yamamura with the aim of providinghigh quality and highly satisfactory legal services to a...
Japanese
English
Fushimi Law Offices

Fushimi Law Offices

Kyoto, Japan

Founded in 2010
50 people in their team
At Kensei Law Office, we aim to provide the best legal services to our valued clients with the best knowledge and sincerity, rejecting vanity and not...
Japanese
English

About Employment Rights Law in Kyoto, Japan

Employment rights in Kyoto are governed by Japanese labor law, which provides a comprehensive framework designed to protect the rights and welfare of workers. These laws are national and thus apply equally to Kyoto as to the rest of Japan. They include regulations on working hours, discrimination, health and safety, contracts of employment, and termination of employment. A distinct characteristic of Japanese employment practice, traditionally, has been the concept of lifetime employment for regular workers, although this has been changing in recent decades.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance in the field of employment rights is often sought after in situations such as unfair dismissal, reviewing and negotiating employment contracts, experiencing workplace discrimination or harassment, dealing with unjust labor practices, and ensuring proper payment and working conditions in compliance with labor standards. In Kyoto, as elsewhere in Japan, an experienced lawyer will help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of remedies available in case of any infringements.

Local Laws Overview

In Kyoto, the key employment laws are derived from Japanese Law and include the Labor Standards Law, which sets the minimum standards for working conditions, the Labor Contract Law, regulating the contractual relationships between employers and employees, and the Industrial Safety and Health Law that ensures safe working environments. Additionally, the Equal Employment Opportunity Law aims to prevent discrimination in employment. While these laws are national, local regulations in Kyoto may also impact employment relationships, particularly through ordinances that supplement national labor laws with additional protections or procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard number of working hours in Kyoto?

The statutory working hours in Japan are 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. Overtime work requires additional pay, and there are specific rules about limits and compensation.

Am I entitled to paid leave?

Yes, employees in Japan are entitled to annual paid leave if they have worked continuously for six months and have reported to work at least 80% of the time. Entitled leave days increase with the length of service.

What can I do if I am wrongfully terminated?

If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, it is important to consult a lawyer to evaluate your situation and determine if your termination violated Japanese labor laws or your employment contract.

Is there a minimum wage in Kyoto?

Yes, similar to other parts of Japan, there is a minimum wage in Kyoto that varies depending on the type of industry and is revised annually.

Are there laws against discrimination at work?

The Japanese Labor Standards Law and the Equal Employment Opportunity Law together provide protections against discrimination in the workplace, covering various grounds including gender, race, creed, social status, or family origin.

What is considered as overtime, and how is it compensated?

Overtime is considered as work done beyond the statutory working hours, and it must be compensated at a higher rate. The specific rate depends on the hours worked and whether it's on a holiday or at night.

Can I refuse to work overtime in Kyoto?

Employees can refuse to work overtime if they have legitimate reasons, such as health concerns or family commitments; however, refusing without valid reasons can result in penalties depending on the terms of the worker's employment contract.

What should I do if I suffer harassment in the workplace?

If you face harassment at work, you should report the issue to your employer or the labor standards inspection office. If necessary, seek legal advice to protect your rights and take appropriate action.

What are the rules on maternity and child care leave in Kyoto?

Under Japanese law, pregnant employees are entitled to maternity leave, and following childbirth, parents can take childcare leave. The period and conditions are specified by the national regulations and include job security and certain allowances.

Is English-language legal support available in Kyoto for employment issues?

Yes, there are law firms and legal services in Kyoto where you can obtain advice in English on employment issues. It is important to search for a lawyer or service experienced in dealing with foreign nationals.

Additional Resources

For those in need of legal advice on employment rights in Kyoto, the following resources may be helpful:

  • The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan - for comprehensive information and resources on labor standards and laws.
  • The Japan Legal Support Center (Houterasu) - provides support and advice for those with various legal concerns, including employment issues.
  • Local Labor Standards Supervision Office - for consultations and reporting of labor standards violations.
  • Local bar associations - may offer legal counseling services, sometimes even for free.
  • Nonprofit organizations and workers' unions - can provide support and information on workers' rights and issues.

Next Steps

If you are facing employment issues in Kyoto and require legal assistance, the next step is to reach out to a qualified employment lawyer who can review your case. You could start by contacting the local bar association, which may refer you to lawyers specializing in employment law. It's also advisable to gather all related documentation, such as employment contracts, payment records, and any communications that relate to your issue, before meeting with your lawyer. This information will help them understand your case and recommend the best course of action.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.