If you work with employees, you know they are an asset for growing the company. However, problems sometimes arise because of misunderstandings or vindictive behavior. As an employer, you can take action to avoid miscommunication and defend yourself and your business.
If you employ workers, a knowledgeable attorney at Sparks Law should review how you hire, terminate, and treat them in the workplace. A Virginia employment lawyer can help draft essential documents like employee manuals and contracts to preempt any problems that may arise in the future.
Employees who sue or file complaints with regulatory agencies usually allege issues related to overtime pay, minimum wage issues, wrongful termination, discrimination, or harassment, including those of a sexual nature. Our attorneys are experienced at handling various types of employment disputes in Virginia and can help with the following services:
The employment lawyers at Sparks Law are proactive in developing strategies that work to deflate employee problems. If regulatory agencies or lawsuits ensue, we can also take the appropriate steps in defending a client.
The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) reports that as of May 1, 2021, Virginia’s minimum wage rises to $9.50 per hour, an increase from the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Virginia employers who paid the federal minimum wage in the past will find in most instances that they are now required to pay the higher Virginia wage.
Both the state and federal Wages and Hours Divisions govern minimum wage and overtime violations. Employers may be required to appear before these regulatory boards if employees file complaints accusing them of violating minimum wage laws. Our seasoned employment lawyers can delve into time sheets and employee records to build a case based on wage violations.
Under the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), employers with at least one employee must pay men and women equal wages for the same jobs. In addition to equal pay, employers with fifteen to nineteen employees cannot discriminate based on race, gender, gender identity, skin color, religion, national origin, or disability. In addition to the above, employers with at least 20 employees cannot discriminate against people older than 40.
If an employee is treated differently or excluded because of their differences, this could constitute discrimination. Discriminatory behavior also includes employers who allow or perpetuate a toxic workplace, enough to drive the targeted employee to resign.
The EEOC also oversees cases involving sexual harassment. Beyond sexual advances or threats, any conduct that a reasonable person finds offensive could amount to harassment. For instance, if an employer constantly tells off-color jokes and recounts graphic sexual escapades, an offended employee may be able to file an EEOC complaint. Whether an employer faces an EEOC complaint or a civil lawsuit in Virginia, our local employment lawyers could mount a tenacious defense.
Many infractions in the workplace can lead to employees filing regulatory agency complaints for discrimination, harassment, and wage violations. Other times, disgruntled employees may take employers to civil court to recover money. To ensure a positive working environment and avoid these types of disputes, work with a Virginia employment lawyer on implementing fair labor practices.
The skilled attorneys at Sparks Law can advise you about your current business practices and supply other legal documents to mitigate employee problems if they arise. We are also experienced litigators and liaisons before regulatory agencies. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you.
