Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Philadelphia

About Employment Rights Law in Philadelphia, United States

Employment rights in Philadelphia, United States refer to the legal protections and entitlements that employees have in the workplace. These rights encompass a wide range of issues such as wages, hours worked, discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require a lawyer specializing in employment rights law. These include cases of workplace discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, violations of wage and hour laws, and negotiating employment contracts.

Local Laws Overview

In Philadelphia, key aspects of local employment laws include the Philadelphia Fair Work Week Ordinance, which provides predictive scheduling requirements for certain industries, and the Philadelphia Fair Practices Ordinance, which prohibits discrimination in employment based on various factors including race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is at-will employment?

At-will employment means that an employer can terminate an employee at any time for any reason, as long as it is not illegal. Employees also have the right to leave their job at any time.

2. What is the minimum wage in Philadelphia?

The current minimum wage in Philadelphia is $7.25 per hour, which is the same as the federal minimum wage. However, some industries may have different minimum wage requirements.

3. Can my employer fire me for filing a complaint against them?

No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a complaint or reporting a violation of their rights. If you believe you have been retaliated against, you may have grounds for legal action.

4. What should I do if I believe I have been discriminated against at work?

If you believe you have been discriminated against at work, you should document the incidents, report them to HR or your supervisor, and consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options.

5. Can I negotiate my employment contract?

Yes, you can negotiate your employment contract. It is advisable to have a lawyer review the terms of the contract to ensure they are fair and favorable to you.

6. How do I file a wage and hour claim?

You can file a wage and hour claim with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry or seek legal assistance. It is important to document your hours worked and any violations of wage laws.

7. What is considered workplace harassment?

Workplace harassment includes any unwelcome or offensive behavior directed at an employee based on their protected characteristics such as race, gender, or sexual orientation. If you are experiencing harassment, you should report it to HR or your supervisor.

8. Can I be fired for being pregnant?

No, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee because they are pregnant. Pregnancy discrimination is prohibited under both federal and state laws.

9. What rights do I have as a whistleblower?

As a whistleblower, you have legal protections against retaliation for reporting illegal activities or violations of workplace laws. If you believe you have been retaliated against, you should seek legal advice.

10. How do I know if I have a case for wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for illegal reasons such as discrimination, retaliation, or in violation of an employment contract. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, you should consult with an employment rights lawyer to determine if you have a case.

Additional Resources

For more information on employment rights in Philadelphia, you can contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry or the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations. Additionally, organizations such as the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the National Employment Lawyers Association may be able to provide resources and referrals to legal assistance.

Next Steps

If you believe your employment rights have been violated, it is important to act promptly. You can schedule a consultation with an employment rights lawyer to discuss your case and explore your options for legal action. It is advisable to gather any relevant documentation and information to support your claims.