Best Hiring & Firing Lawyers in Klaipėda

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Klaipėda, Republic of Lithuania

English
Robertas Skėrys Law Firm, based in Klaipėda, Lithuania, offers comprehensive legal services to both private individuals and businesses. The firm specializes in drafting contracts and procedural documents, representing clients in civil, criminal, and administrative cases, and handling tax...
AS SEEN ON

About Hiring & Firing Law in Klaipėda, Republic of Lithuania

Hiring and firing in Klaipėda, Republic of Lithuania, is governed by national labor legislation that aims to balance the interests of both employers and employees. The laws are primarily outlined in the Labor Code of the Republic of Lithuania, which sets forth clear standards for entering into, modifying, and terminating employment contracts. Klaipėda, being a significant port city, features various industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and services, making understanding employment law crucial for both local businesses and workers.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where individuals or businesses in Klaipėda might require legal assistance involving hiring and firing. Some common scenarios include disputes over unfair dismissal, negotiating employment contracts, handling redundancies, and navigating the complexities surrounding employee rights and employer duties. Employers might seek advice on compliance with notice periods, severance pay, collective agreements, and workplace discrimination claims. Employees might need help if they believe their termination was unlawful or if they face disciplinary actions.

Local Laws Overview

The labor laws in Klaipėda are regulated under the national framework of Lithuania. Key aspects include:

  • Employment contracts must be in writing and contain specific details about job duties, pay, and working hours.
  • Probation periods typically do not exceed 3 months but could be shorter in certain cases.
  • Termination of employment requires valid legal grounds, appropriate notice periods, and sometimes severance payments, depending on the circumstances of the dismissal.
  • Both employers and employees have to follow proper procedures for termination to avoid legal disputes.
  • Special protections exist for certain categories, such as pregnant women, employees on parental leave, and trade union representatives.
  • Collective agreements may affect the hiring or firing process, especially in unionized workplaces.
  • Dispute resolution can occur via labor disputes commissions, labor courts, or through mediation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What must be included in an employment contract in Klaipėda?

An employment contract should outline the job's nature, duties, remuneration, working hours, workplace, start date, and duration if fixed-term. Both parties must sign the contract before work begins.

Is a probation period mandatory when hiring in Klaipėda?

A probation period is optional and must be agreed upon in writing. It is commonly used to see if the employee is suitable for the role, but it cannot exceed 3 months unless the law provides otherwise.

What are the legal grounds for firing an employee?

Legal grounds include poor performance, misconduct, redundancy, mutual agreement, or other reasons specified in the Labor Code. Employers must provide proper justification and evidence for dismissal.

How much notice is required before terminating employment?

Notice periods depend on the cause of termination and the employee's length of service but generally range from 2 weeks to 3 months. Immediate dismissal is possible in cases of severe misconduct.

Are employees entitled to severance pay?

Yes, employees are often entitled to severance pay, the amount of which depends on their length of service and the grounds for dismissal. Certain dismissals, such as for gross misconduct, may not require severance pay.

What protections exist for employees against unfair dismissal?

The Labor Code safeguards employees from unjust and discriminatory dismissals. Employers must follow due process and clearly state the dismissal reason in writing. Employees can challenge dismissals in court.

Can fixed-term contracts be terminated early?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances, such as mutual agreement, severe breach of contract, redundancy, or as otherwise allowed by law. Otherwise, both sides must adhere to the agreed term or contractual penalties may apply.

What rights do employees have during redundancy or downsizing?

Employees affected by redundancy must receive advance notice and often severance pay. Employers may be required to consider redeploying employees to other suitable positions if available.

How are employment disputes resolved in Klaipėda?

Employment disputes may be handled by labor disputes commissions, mediation, or labor courts. Representation by a lawyer is allowed, and some matters may be resolved via state labor authorities.

Can employers request information about an employee's criminal or health record?

Employers can request such information only if it is directly relevant to the duties and responsibilities of the position. Data protection laws must be strictly followed when handling personal information.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support regarding hiring and firing in Klaipėda, consider contacting:

  • State Labour Inspectorate of the Republic of Lithuania (Valstybinė darbo inspekcija)
  • Employment Service under the Ministry of Social Security and Labour (Užimtumo tarnyba)
  • Lithuanian Lawyers Association (Lietuvos advokatūra)
  • Trade unions active in Klaipėda
  • Legal consulting centers and local mediators

Next Steps

If you require legal advice or assistance in hiring or firing matters in Klaipėda, begin by gathering all relevant documents, such as employment contracts, correspondence, and notices. Clearly outline your issue and consider scheduling a consultation with a licensed labor lawyer familiar with Lithuanian employment law. You may also want to contact local labor authorities for guidance or consider mediation if the dispute is not complex. Early legal involvement can help protect your rights and ensure compliance with all legal requirements during the hiring or termination process.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Klaipėda 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 Hiring & Firing, 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 Klaipėda, Republic of Lithuania - 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.