Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Longford

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Longford, Ireland

Founded in 1988
English
Fergus A Feeney Solicitors is a Longford based law firm established in 1988 by Fergus A Feeney. Based at the Legal Centre on Ballinalee Road, the practice delivers practical and results oriented legal services across civil, commercial and personal matters. The firm is known for its plain speaking,...
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1. About Employment Rights Law in Longford, Ireland

Employment Rights law in Ireland protects workers from unfair treatment and sets minimum standards for pay, hours, leave, and working conditions. In Longford, as in other counties, these rights are enforced by national bodies and interpreted through local cases. The key agencies handle complaints, mediation, and formal disputes to ensure fair outcomes for employees and employers alike.

For residents of Longford, this means you can rely on national legislation and local support services to understand your rights and pursue claims when needed. The law covers things like pay, dismissal, discrimination, working hours, holiday entitlements, and health and safety in the workplace. While you may navigate many issues directly with your employer, complex disputes often require professional guidance from a solicitor or legal counsel specializing in Employment Rights.

In Ireland, employment rights disputes are primarily resolved through the Workplace Relations Commission and, when necessary, the Labour Court. These bodies provide information, mediation, adjudication, and appeal mechanisms for both employees and employers.
Workplace Relations Commission

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Here are concrete, real‑world scenarios that commonly arise for people working in Longford and seeking employment rights guidance. If you encounter any of these, consider consulting a solicitor or legal counsel with employment law experience.

  • Unfair dismissal from a Longford employer - You were terminated after a short probation period and suspect the reason was discriminatory or retaliatory. A solicitor can assess whether the dismissal breaches the Unfair Dismissals Act and help you pursue a claim with the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) or Labour Court.
  • Discrimination at work based on age, gender, or family status - You experienced unequal treatment in pay or opportunities at a Longford company. An attorney can determine if the case falls under the Employment Equality Act and guide you through the appropriate process.
  • Non payment of wages or holiday pay - You did not receive final pay, overtime, or accrued holiday entitlements after leaving a Longford workplace. A solicitor can advise on remedies under the Payment of Wages Act and related statutory rights.
  • Inadequate or missing written terms of employment - Your contract or terms of employment were not provided or were inconsistent. A lawyer can help obtain proper terms and safeguard your rights under the relevant statute.
  • Overtime, rest breaks, or annual leave disputes - You believe your working time or leave rights have not been respected. An attorney can evaluate claims under the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 and related regulations.
  • Wrongful redundancy or redundancy pay issues - You were made redundant and disputes arise over eligibility or compensation. A solicitor can interpret the redundancy provisions and represent you in negotiations or formal proceedings.

3. Local Laws Overview

Below are 2-3 core Irish laws that govern Employment Rights and are commonly relevant to cases in Longford. Each statute has its own scope and typical remedies, and recent practice often involves engagement with the Workplace Relations Commission or the Labour Court.

  • Employment Rights Act 1996 - Consolidates core rights of employees, including claims handling and the framework for remedies in relation to wages and dismissal. Enacted in 1996, this Act is a foundational basis for many workplace disputes and interacts with WRC processes.
  • Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 (as amended) - Prohibits unfair dismissal and sets out procedures for challenging dismissals. The Act has been amended over time to reflect evolving employment practices and judicial interpretations.
  • Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 - Establishes rights relating to working hours, rest breaks, annual leave, and maximum weekly working time. Enacted in 1997, it remains a cornerstone for evaluating entitlements at work in Ireland.

Recent changes and practical notes: The national framework continues to evolve through updates managed by government departments and the Courts. For the latest guidance, you should consult the official sources below. In Longford, disputes are typically routed through the Workplace Relations Commission or Labour Court, depending on the nature of the claim and the stage of the process.

“The Workplace Relations Commission provides information, mediation and adjudication for employment rights disputes.”
Workplace Relations Commission

For statutory details and official text, refer to the Irish Statute Book and government guidance pages. These resources explain the exact duties of employers and rights of employees under each Act.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is unfair dismissal and who handles it?

Unfair dismissal occurs when an employee is terminated for an unlawful reason or without a fair procedure. The Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court handle such claims.

How do I start a claim with the Workplace Relations Commission?

Begin by gathering documents and contacting the WRC to file a claim. You may do this online or by phone, and they offer mediation options before hearings.

When should I contact a lawyer for an employment issue?

Consider a lawyer if the matter involves complex evidence, significant sums, or potential court proceedings. A solicitor can guide you through mediation, adjudication, or appeal steps.

Where can I get free or low cost employment rights information in Longford?

Local Citizens Information Centres provide free guidance on employment rights and the process for taking action with the WRC or courts.

Why do I need details of my written terms of employment?

Written terms confirm your entitlements and duties. If missing or unclear, a lawyer can help obtain or clarify terms and protect your rights.

Can I file a discrimination claim even if I was not paid properly?

Yes, discrimination claims can be pursued alongside or separately from wage disputes, under the Employment Equality Act and relevant provisions.

Should I try mediation before proceeding to a formal hearing?

Yes. Mediation through the WRC is often quicker and less costly than a full hearing, with a legally binding settlement possible.

Do I need to hire a solicitor or is a barrister enough?

A solicitor in Ireland typically handles initial advice, negotiation and court filings. A barrister is often engaged for courtroom advocacy if needed.

Is there a fee to file a claim with the WRC?

Costs may vary by case type. Many initial informations and mediation services are free, but some proceedings can involve fees depending on the dispute.

How long does a typical employment rights case take?

Timeframes vary widely by case type and complexity. Mediation can resolve matters in weeks, while formal hearings may take several months to over a year.

What is the difference between WRC adjudication and Labour Court decisions?

WRC adjudication covers everyday employment disputes and can issue binding decisions. The Labour Court handles appeals and more complex or high-value matters.

5. Additional Resources

Access these official resources for authoritative guidance on Employment Rights in Ireland.

  • Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) - Independent statutory body handling information, mediation and adjudication of employment rights disputes. Website: wrc.ie
  • Labour Court - Handles appeals and more complex disputes after WRC processes. Website: labourcourt.ie
  • Irish Statute Book - Official online repository of Irish legislation and statutory instruments, including Employment Rights acts. Website: irishstatutebook.ie

6. Next Steps

  1. Assess your situation and collect documents. Gather payslips, contracts, emails, letters, and records of hours and holidays. This forms the foundation of any claim.
  2. Identify applicable rights and potential claims. Review whether your issue relates to wages, dismissal, discrimination or working time. Use official guides to understand which claim fits.
  3. Consult a solicitor specializing in Employment Rights. Schedule an initial consultation to review your facts and options. Bring all documentation.
  4. Contact the local support services in Longford. Reach out to the Longford Citizens Information Centre for guidance and procedural steps.
  5. File with the appropriate body. If you pursue a claim, start with the Workplace Relations Commission and consider mediation whenever possible.
  6. Engage in mediation or adjudication as advised. Participate in mediation if offered; it can lead to a binding settlement without a full hearing.
  7. Review outcomes and decide on a further step. If unsatisfied with a decision, discuss possible appeals to the Labour Court with your solicitor.

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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.

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