Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Massachusetts

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McLane Middleton
Woburn, United States

Founded in 1919
75 people in their team
English
McLane Middleton is dedicated to our clients’ businesses, acting in a consultative fashion and offering guidance through today’s complex legal system.Every day we help our clients solve their toughest legal problems and create better outcomes.McLane Middleton holds the respected honor of being...
Jones Day
Boston, United States

Founded in 1893
2,500 people in their team
English
Jones Day has a history of more than 125 years and a culture of client service and professionalism based on explicit shared values. These values include providing pro bono legal services, building diversity in our profession, and supporting outreach efforts around the world.Jones Day has a long...

Founded in 1994
1,000 people in their team
English
WilmerHale is a leading, full-service international law firm with 1,000 lawyers located throughout 13 offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. Our lawyers work at the intersection of government, technology and business, and we remain committed to our guiding principles of:providing...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Boston, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
Verrill Dana LLP.
Boston, United States

Founded in 1862
213 people in their team
English
Decency, honesty, and judgment. The values that define Verrill as a law firm are the reason our clients trust and choose us time and time again. We don't compromise our values and our clients don't compromise on quality. Our experience and New England roots date back more than 150 years, and today,...

Founded in 1948
1,700 people in their team
English
The traits that fueled Skadden’s rise from a New York startup to a global powerhouse - collaborative, innovative, persistent - continue to define our firm culture. We remain intensely focused on the simple formula of developing an inclusive complement of extraordinary attorneys, working together...
Fletcher Tilton PC.
Worcester, United States

Founded in 1822
102 people in their team
English
Fletcher Tilton PC proudly provides legal services to clients in Massachusetts and beyond. Offering a wide range of core and specialty services, our attorneys come from varied backgrounds, representing many talents, interests and experiences. We express our solid commitment to the community through...
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United States Employment Rights Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 3 legal questions about Employment Rights in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

How will I be able to receive money for the way I have been treated and all my hard work at a job I just quit from from but not unemployment?
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
which country is matter occured?
Do I win against my boss?
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
Hi, we will be glad to assist and to help you with your case, kindly call or chat on WhatsApp with me at: 0806-809-5282 or send email to: sksolicitors.ng@gmail.com and please visit our website at: www.sk-solicitorsng.com to read more about our legal services.Thank you and best regards,Kingsley Izimah, Esq.SK Solicitors
Is it illegal to lay off an employee when sick
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
Wrongful Termination
Hello and thank you for contacting SK Solicitors, a full service law firm based in Lagos, Nigeria.Kindly let us know how we can help you to solve your legal needs and before we can render legal advice service, you will be required to pay consultancy fees.Kindly read more about our legal services on our website at: www.sk-solicitorsng.com and send us an email to: sksolicitors.ng@gmail.com or chat with us on WhatsApp at: +234 0806-809-5282 for legal advisory service.Thanks, Kingsley Izimah, Esq.

About Employment Rights Law in Massachusetts, United States

Employment rights law in Massachusetts covers a broad range of protections for workers. These rights are governed by both federal and state laws, ensuring fairness, safety, and equality in the workplace. Massachusetts laws are generally considered progressive, offering employees strong protections against discrimination, wage theft, and wrongful termination. Understanding your rights as an employee can empower you in addressing workplace issues and ensuring you are treated fairly by your employer.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where seeking legal help for employment rights issues is beneficial. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Experiencing workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation
  • Having wages, overtime, or tips withheld unfairly
  • Facing wrongful termination or retaliation after reporting misconduct
  • Needing help with employment contracts, non-compete agreements, or severance packages
  • Being subject to harassment or a hostile work environment
  • Issues related to family and medical leave rights
  • Not receiving proper workplace accommodations for disabilities

A knowledgeable employment lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate the complaint process, and represent you in disputes or legal actions against your employer if needed.

Local Laws Overview

Massachusetts has several key employment laws in addition to federal laws. Here are some notable state laws and protections:

  • Wage and Hour Laws - The Massachusetts Minimum Fair Wage Law sets the state minimum wage, overtime, and other wage standards higher than the federal baseline. As of 2024, the minimum wage is $15 per hour. Overtime is generally 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a week.
  • Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) - Eligible employees can take paid leave for their own serious health conditions, to care for a family member, or for bonding with a new child.
  • Anti-Discrimination Laws - The Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits discrimination in employment. State law covers more categories than federal law, including protections based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
  • Equal Pay Law - Massachusetts prohibits pay discrimination for comparable work, regardless of gender. Employers cannot ask about salary history before making a job offer.
  • Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law - Employees accrue sick time that can be used for their own illness or to care for a family member.
  • Parental Leave - Both men and women are entitled to eight weeks of unpaid, job-protected parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child.
  • Workplace Safety - Employees have the right to a safe and healthy workplace. The Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards helps enforce these rights alongside federal OSHA protections.

These state-specific protections are enforced by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Fair Labor Division and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, among other agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in Massachusetts?

As of 2024, the minimum wage in Massachusetts is $15.00 per hour for most workers. Some positions, such as tipped employees, may have a different minimum, but their pay plus tips must equal at least $15.00 per hour.

Can my employer fire me without giving a reason?

Massachusetts is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can generally terminate employees for any reason or no reason at all. However, they cannot fire you for discriminatory reasons or in retaliation for asserting your legal rights.

What should I do if I am being harassed at work?

Report the harassment to your employer’s HR department or your supervisor. If the issue does not get resolved internally, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or seek legal advice.

How do I file a wage or overtime complaint?

You can file a wage complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Fair Labor Division. Keeping records of hours worked and pay received will help support your claim.

Am I entitled to paid family or medical leave?

Yes, most employees in Massachusetts can take paid family and medical leave for specific reasons, such as a serious illness or bonding with a newborn. The Paid Family and Medical Leave program provides partial wage replacement during your leave.

Are employers required to provide sick leave?

Yes, under the Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law, most employees accrue one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 40 hours per year.

Can my employer ask about my salary history?

No, Massachusetts prohibits employers from asking about your salary history before making a job offer that includes compensation terms.

What if I am discriminated against because of my gender identity or sexual orientation?

State law in Massachusetts protects employees from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. You can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or consult with an employment lawyer for assistance.

How can I request accommodations for a disability?

You should notify your employer about your need for a reasonable accommodation in writing if possible. If your employer refuses to accommodate you, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

What are my rights if I am laid off or terminated?

If you are terminated, your employer must pay you all earned wages, including unused vacation time, on your last day of employment. You may also be eligible for unemployment benefits or, in some cases, severance pay depending on company policy or agreement.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information or help, consider these organizations:

  • Massachusetts Attorney General’s Fair Labor Division
  • Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
  • Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards
  • U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
  • Legal services providers such as Greater Boston Legal Services and Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation
  • Local bar associations offering lawyer referral services or free initial consultations

Next Steps

If you believe your employment rights have been violated in Massachusetts, you should start by gathering all relevant documents, such as pay stubs, contracts, emails, and witness statements. Report the issue internally within your company if possible. If the issue is unresolved or you require guidance, contact a qualified employment lawyer familiar with Massachusetts law. Many legal organizations offer free consultations, helping you understand the strengths of your case and the potential legal remedies available. You can also file complaints directly with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office or the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination depending on the nature of your claim. Acting quickly is important, as there are deadlines for bringing legal claims related to employment rights.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Massachusetts through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Employment Rights, experience, and client feedback. 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. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Massachusetts, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.