As we make our way through life, we are often faced with many challenges. One of the key areas that can be cause for concern is how we are doing in our job and career. When we have a great job and everything is going well, we can feel like we are on top of the world. The money is flowing in, and the possibility of advancing and getting a raise brings hope. There are other times, though, where work can be constantly stressful and we can find ourselves facing unfair treatment and even illegal actions.
When we find ourselves facing discrimination or unjust adverse actions in the workplace, we can easily be overwhelmed emotionally. Our stress levels go through the roof, and we often find that we don’t know what to do next or where to turn to for help. If you are an employee who is facing these adverse conditions, you need to reach out for help. One of the best things you can do is to consult with legal experts from an employment law firm that is known for helping protect the rights of workers.
Harassment or Discrimination at Work
When you an employee, you are often at a disadvantage because of the power dynamic in the workplace. Basically, your boss and employer hold the keys to you being treated fairly, getting your paycheck and being able to provide for your family. If you have a bad boss, or an uncaring or unethical employer, you could face harassment or discrimination in the workplace.
A top notch employment lawyer can help protect you from discriminatory behaviour. The discrimination you face might be related to gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, age or disability. Your solicitor can represent you and make sure your legal interests are protected.
Advice and Resolution of Contractual Disputes
If you are taking a new job that will be governed by an employment contract, it’s a good idea to have your solicitor review the document prior to signing. Typically, these contracts will specify the terms of your employment, including your benefits and salary, responsibilities and the specifics and clauses related to termination.
When an employer takes action against an employee, or fails to uphold the clauses of the employment contract, your employment lawyer can be your advocate. They will be able to help protect your rights, and may even help negotiate a settlement with the employer on your behalf.
Unfair Dismissal
Employees who have been with an employer for two continuous years are afforded protection from unfair dismissal. There are certain exceptions to the two year requirement. If an individual is a whistle-blower or a woman who is pregnant, two years of service does not apply to unfair dismissal claims.
Your employment solicitor can help protect your interests if you are facing, or have been dismissed, by an employer. Per the Equality Act of 2010, employers can not dismiss an employee due to a health condition that is effectively a disability, or one of the other covered protected characteristics. Employers must also follow fair procedures when initiating the dismissal of an employee.
If you find that your employer is treating you unfairly, engaging in harassing behaviour or seeking your dismissal, you will want to consult with a leading employment legal firm. Their solicitors can help protect your interests, assure that your employer is following the law and can even negotiate a favourable settlement on your behalf.
