Employee-Employer Relationships

State and federal laws protect the complex employee-employer relationship. Often, wrongful termination, breach of employment agreement, and discrimination issues cause tremendous conflict between businesses and their employees. These clashes can be further complicated by the emotional connections we make as people who spend more time with our coworkers during a regular workweek than we do with our families. When a separation becomes necessary, conflicts naturally arise.

Can an Employee be Fired “At Will” or “For Cause?”

“At will” employees are those working without a formal employment contract. An employer has the right to terminate your employment at any time for any reason, other than those protected under state and federal laws. Employees cannot be terminated simply because of race, gender, skin color or age. When such discrimination occurs, it can be painful and embarrassing for the individual affected, and it can open the business to potential lawsuits.

Union and government employees with formal written contacts are considered “for cause” employees. Employers must have a legitimate reason to fire such a worker, or they may be liable for breach of employment or wrongful termination.

Discrimination in the Workplace

In addition to wrongful termination, other types of discrimination can occur within the employer-employee setting. Discrimination because of race, age, background, gender and other sensitive reasons can cause employees to lose well-deserved promotions and raises. Sex discrimination is so prevalent in the American workforce that even the most recent statistics show that women make at least 10 percent less than men in the same jobs. This inequity is a common cause of lawsuits.

Some other common situations that give rise to employer-employee claims include:

• Employer failing to pay all wages due
• Violation of employment agreement terms
• Employee misappropriation of customer lists, trade secrets or other proprietary information
• Employee violation of a non-compete or employment agreement

If you or someone you know has an employee or employer relationship claim, you may have a right to compensation for your losses. Contact us today to speak with a qualified attorney and receive a free consultation.