Labor & Employment

The attorneys at Barrett Johnston Martin & Garrison regularly represent labor unions and employees in disputes with their employers. If you are experiencing any problems at work described below, we have the experience and expertise to help you fight back.

Family Medical Leave: Most employees are entitled to receive up to 12 weeks of family medical leave per year for valid personal or medical issues, including maternity leave. As a result, most employers cannot fire an employee while he or she is away from work on medical leave, and most employers cannot fire or discriminate against employees because they choose to take medical leave.     

Wage Disputes: Employers are required to pay most of their employees for all hours worked, including overtime. However, many employers do not pay their employees properly. For more information, click here.

Whistleblowers and Wrongful Termination: Employers are prohibited from firing employees who inform their employer or the government of illegal activities taking place within the employer’s business. For more information, click here. 

Discrimination and Harassment: Federal and state law prevents employers from discriminating against employees and job applicants based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, national origin, genetic material, and more.

Severance Issues: We regularly represent employees in severance negotiations with their employers. If your employment is ending (voluntarily or involuntarily), we will meet with you to discuss your options, advise you, and negotiate on your behalf if appropriate.

Background Checks: Employers cannot terminate employees or refuse to hire applicants because of inaccurate background reports. Additionally, employers cannot use background reports on job applicants or employees without clearly disclosing that they are doing so.

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