Best Hiring & Firing Lawyers in Philadelphia

About Hiring & Firing Law in Philadelphia, United States:

Hiring & Firing law in Philadelphia, United States governs the rules and regulations surrounding the employment relationship between employers and employees. It covers everything from the hiring process to the termination of employment, including discrimination, wages, benefits, and more.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer in Hiring & Firing situations if you believe your rights as an employee have been violated, you have been wrongfully terminated, you are facing discrimination in the workplace, or you need assistance negotiating employment agreements or severance packages.

Local Laws Overview:

In Philadelphia, some key aspects of local laws relevant to Hiring & Firing include the Philadelphia Fair Practices Ordinance, which prohibits discrimination based on certain characteristics, the Pennsylvania Personnel File Act, which gives employees the right to review their personnel files, and the Pennsylvania Wage Payment and Collection Law, which outlines how and when employees must be paid.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can my employer fire me without cause?

Philadelphia is an at-will employment city, which means employers can generally terminate employees for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it is not discriminatory or in violation of a contract.

2. What is wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for an illegal reason, such as discrimination, retaliation, or in violation of a contract.

3. Can I sue my employer for discrimination?

Yes, you can file a discrimination claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) if you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace.

4. How do I know if I am entitled to severance pay?

Severance pay is not required by law in Pennsylvania, but it may be offered by your employer as part of a separation agreement. It is important to review any employment contracts or company policies regarding severance pay.

5. What is considered unlawful retaliation by an employer?

Unlawful retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in protected activities, such as reporting discrimination or harassment, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation.

6. Can my employer change the terms of my employment without notice?

Employers generally have the right to change the terms of employment, such as wages, hours, or job duties, as long as they provide notice to employees and do not violate any existing contracts or agreements.

7. Are non-compete agreements enforceable in Philadelphia?

Non-compete agreements are enforceable in Philadelphia, but they must be reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area. It is advisable to have an attorney review any non-compete agreements before signing.

8. How do I report workplace harassment or discrimination?

You can report workplace harassment or discrimination to the EEOC, the PHRC, or your employer's human resources department. It is important to document any incidents and follow your employer's complaint procedures.

9. What are the key requirements for employers under the Philadelphia Fair Practices Ordinance?

Employers in Philadelphia are prohibited from discriminating against employees based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. They are also required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.

10. How can a lawyer help me with Hiring & Firing issues?

A lawyer can provide legal advice, represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings, review employment contracts and severance agreements, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the Hiring & Firing process.

Additional Resources:

For additional resources related to Hiring & Firing in Philadelphia, you can contact the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, or the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division.

Next Steps:

If you need legal assistance with Hiring & Firing issues in Philadelphia, it is recommended to consult with an experienced employment lawyer who can provide guidance and representation tailored to your specific situation. Be sure to gather all relevant documentation and be prepared to discuss your concerns openly and honestly with your attorney.