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Labor Law in Kalamazoo, like the rest of Michigan and the United States, is formed by statutes, administrative rules, and judicial decisions that cover the legal rights, restrictions and obligations for workers, employers and trade unions. Matters pertaining to working conditions, labor relations, worker's rights, and employment standards fall under Labor Law. This complex legal area can influence many aspects of one's job, from wages to workplace safety.
Understandably, you might need a lawyer if you believe that your rights have been violated at your workplace. This could be in the form of workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, wage disputes, issues of harassment or an unsafe workplace. A lawyer could also be necessary when going through complex processes, such as collective bargaining or if you're faced with a dispute with a union. Navigating the complexities of Labor Law requires expert guidance to ensure your case is effectively presented and your rights protected.
Michigan Labor Law mandates that all Michigan employers must provide workers' compensation, unemployment insurance and adhere strictly to the regulations of occupational safety and health. Minimum wage in Michigan, as of 2021, is $9.65 per hour for most employees, with overtime pay being not less than one and a half times the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek. There is explicit legislation against any form of workplace discrimination, with the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status.
Michigan operates under the at-will employment presumption which means that an employer can terminate an employee at any time for any reason, unless an agreement exists that provides otherwise, or the termination is based on unlawful grounds such as discrimination.
Michigan is a ‘Right to Work’ state, meaning that you cannot be forced to join a union or pay union dues as a condition of employment.
If you suspect workplace discrimination, it's often best to start by documenting the situations of possible discrimination and talk with an HR representative. Depending on their response, you may need to take legal action, in which case you should consult with a labor lawyer.
Under Michigan Labor Law, employers don't have to provide meal or rest breaks. However, if they choose to do so, short breaks (20 minutes or less) must be paid while meal breaks (30 minutes or more) don't need to be paid if the employee is off duty.
In Michigan, any work over 40 hours in a week is considered overtime and must be compensated at a rate of 1.5 times a worker's standard pay rate in most occupations.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the U.S. Department of Labor provide information on labor law areas and offer multiple resources. Legal aid societies and local community organizations may also have resources to provide free or reduced-cost advice.
If you believe your rights have been violated or are involved in a legal dispute relating to your employment, you should consider seeking legal help. Document all relevant information and reach out to local legal aid services, labor organizations or hire a professional labor lawyer. While a lawyer may have costs associated, they can assist in navigating the complex legal terrain and ensure your rights are respected and upheld.
