Going to work is a standard part of life and something most of us deal with every week. But not every employer is fair, and in many cases, their unfair actions could be illegal. Employment law attorney Mitch Feldman can help you if your work rights at Tampa have been violated. Employment is a two-way street, and while you are expected to provide your time and meet your job duties as best, you are able your employer also has certain obligations. Your employer is expected to treat you fairly, without bias, provide the agreed-upon payment and benefits for your position, and not violate your rights. Federal and state laws clearly define the relationship between employee and employer from the hiring process to resignation or termination and the end of the business agreement.
In the state of Florida, you are protected from several legal violations in the workplace.
Violations of Your Workplace Rights
Employment law is a broad topic and protects you from an assortment of unjust and unfair treatment. If you’ve been wronged at your job, you deserve legal representation and fair, ethical treatment. If you have encountered any of the following situations, you should not ignore them and should speak to an attorney as soon as possible.
- Discrimination: as defined in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1991, you cannot be discriminated against based on your religion, race, color, sex, or national origin. However, despite being a clearly defined illegal and unethical act, many businesses still discriminate against certain groups. In such situations, legal representation is critical.
- Sexual Harassment: offensive, suggestive, and harassing behavior is illegal as per Title VII. Sexual harassment is unacceptable behavior in any workplace and creates a hostile environment for all experiencing it. It is not something to be ignored; it is a crime.
- Age Discrimination: discrimination against employees over 40 is a sadly common issue. The frequency of such unequal treatment is one factor that leads to the ADEA (Age Discrimination in Employment Act).
- Disability Discrimination: the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) clearly defines discrimination where one’s disability is a factor. An employer cannot refuse to hire people with disabilities outright or refuse to make proper accommodations for existing employees who have disabilities.
- Family Leave Discrimination: the Pregnancy Discrimination Act was passed to prevent unfair treatment of women based on childbirth, pregnancy, or leave taken for maternity. Also included under this topic is The Family Medical Leave Act, which states that 12 weeks of unpaid job-protected leave is available for employees to care for serious illnesses or medical conditions, be they their own or for a family member.
- Wrongful Termination: getting fired is simply a part of the working experience. However, a firing must be legitimate and follow proper state and federal protocol. Improper termination can include firing for personal reasons such as revenge and other acts that are considered illegitimate under the law.
Wages and Unfair Compensation
Employers not paying proper wages is an all too common event. Your agreement with your employer clearly defines your wages, and common issues with compensation include not paying overtime, not paying bonuses when proper metrics have been met, and not paying commission. You have a legal right to receive what you are due for your hard work and effort. If you are not being adequately compensated, you have a right to peruse the money you are owed.
You Have a Right to Legal Representation and to Have Your Voice Heard
In Florida, as an employee, you are protected on both the state and federal levels by laws designed to keep workers safe in the workplace. In cases of violation, your attorney can file a case on your behalf with the Florida Commission on Human Rights or make use of the federal agency focused on these matters, the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).
When you’ve been wronged by an employer, it is easy to feel angry, powerless, and even embarrassed. Depending on the nature of the offense, you may feel like there is nothing you can do, and taking legal action only opens you up to more ridicule. However, it is important to remember it is not your fault, and no employer, no matter their size, reputation, or wealth, is allowed to abuse you and deny you your rights. Taking action against an abusive employer can be scary, but with an attorney, you have somebody on your side, there to help you out, and who has your best interests at heart. With a skilled employment law attorney on your side, you have someone with the knowledge needed to fight for your rights.
Receiving What You Are Owed
If you have been mistreated in the workplace, you could be eligible for many types of compensation depending on the nature of your situation and the offense. Compensation can include back pay, punitive damages, pay for emotional damage, reinstatement of your job, proper placement if denied a job, damages, etc. Make no mistake, as an employee; you have an expectation and a legal right to be treated fairly in the workplace. If you have been mistreated, discriminated against, or fired without cause, you should contact the Feldman Legal Group today.
