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  • Estate Planning
    • Guide To Estate Planning Content >
      • Estate Planning Guide Overview
      • Essential Estate Planning Documents Guide
      • Asset Protection Guide
      • Guide to How to Make a Will
      • Estate Planning in Unique Circumstances Guide
      • Guide to Death of a Loved One
    • Asset Protection >
      • Asset Protection Trusts
      • Massachusetts Estate Tax >
        • Preparing for Massachusetts Estate Tax
        • Inheritance Tax
      • The Challenge of Planning for Assisted Living >
        • Summary of Long Term Care Issues >
          • Understanding Medicaid Trusts
          • Assisted Living FAQs
          • Life Estates in Massachusetts
          • Assisted Living Planning Guide
          • Long Term Care Free Report
      • Protecting Your Legacy >
        • What is a Legacy
        • Massachusetts Probate Court Process
        • Threats to Your Legacy: What Not To Do >
          • Online Wills
          • Do It Yourself Will
          • Dying Without a Will
          • Inheritance Without a Will Intestacy Laws
    • Estate Planning Why When and How >
      • What You Can Achieve With an Estate Plan
      • Who Needs an Estate Plan >
        • The Case for Estate Planning
        • What's Stopping You From Creating a Will
      • When Do You Need an Estate Plan >
        • Estate Planning Guide for Every Life Stage >
          • Estate Planning for Young Adults
          • Estate Planning for Young Families
          • Estate Planning in MIddle Age
          • Estate Planning in Retirement Age
        • Guide to Specific Estate Planning Circumstances >
          • Children with Special Needs >
            • Special Needs Trust
          • Estate Planning for Blended Families
          • Estate Planning for a Non Citizen Spouse
          • Estate Planning and Divorce
          • LGBTQ+ Estate Planning
          • Estate Planning for Small Business Owners
          • Estate Planning for Digital Assets
        • When to Update Your Estate Plan
      • End of Life and Loss >
        • End of Life Planning Essentials >
          • End of Life Planning Checklist
          • Is it too late to change estate planning documents
          • Durable Power of Attorney End of Life Planning
          • Understanding the Health Care Proxy
          • MOLST Form
        • Death of a Loved One Guide >
          • Death of a Loved One Checklist
          • Death of a Loved One Legal Steps
          • Funeral Planning and Preplanning
      • Getting Started With Your Estate Plan >
        • Mental Capacity to Make a Will
        • How to Make an Estate Plan
        • Estate Planning Resources
      • Busting Estate Planning Myths
    • Wills Trusts and Other Essential Estate Planning Documents >
      • Last Will and Testament >
        • Personal Representative
        • Choosing an Executor or Trustee
        • Changing Your Will With a Codicil
        • Holographic Wills
      • What is a Trust >
        • Revocable trust
        • Irrevocable trust
        • Irrevocable vs revocable trust
        • Realty trust
      • Wills and Trusts Compared
      • Massachusetts Health Care Proxy
      • Durable Power of Attorney >
        • Durable Power of Attorney Limits
        • Springing vs. Durable Power of Attorney
      • Living Wills
      • Massachusetts Pet Trust
      • Beyond the Will: Enhancing Your Estate Plan >
        • Is Your Will Enough
        • Surviving Spouse's Share
        • Disinheriting Children Massachusetts
    • Estate Planning Case Studies >
      • Couples Estate Planning Case Study
      • Proactive Estate Planning Case Study
      • Estate Tax Planning Case Study
      • Estate Planning Case Study: Asset Protection
      • Estate Planning Case Study: Pets
      • Estate Planning Case Study Guardians
      • Estate Planning Case Study Codicil
      • Estate Planning Case Study Unique Wishes
      • Estate Planning Case Study Family Financial Future
      • Estate Planning Case Study Business Succession
      • Estate Planning Case Study Blended Family
      • Estate Planning Case Study Medicaid Trust
      • Estate Planning Case Study Non Traditional Bequests
      • Estate Planning Case Study Predeceased Child
      • Estate Planning Case Study Changed Circumstances
      • Estate Planning Case Study Estate Tax Planning for Married Couple
      • Estate Planning Case Study Safeguarding Assets
    • Working With Our Estate Planning Team >
      • Estate Planning Lawyers
      • estate planning free workshop
      • New Client Intake Estate Planning >
        • Estate Plan consult FAQs
      • Initial estate planning assessment at slnlaw
      • Creating Your Estate Plan
      • Estate Planning Process Overview
    • Estate Planning FAQs >
      • What is the difference between a will and a trust
      • Can a will avoid probate
      • Why do you need a will if you have a trust
      • What happens if you die without a will
      • Can you choose who gets assets without a will
      • What is a life estate
      • How is a life estate different from a trust
      • Can a life estate be changed
      • Is my estate plan private
      • Can you make a will without a lawyer
      • Should You Use an Online Will Service
      • What are the risks of a do it yourself will
      • How can I change my will
      • Can you disinherit a child
      • Can you disinherit a spouse
      • A surviving spouse's share of a Massachusetts estate
      • How can you leave assets to someone with special needs
      • Can you provide for a pet in your estate plan
      • What are the key elements of a good estate plan
      • What documents do you need in your estate plan
      • The difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts
      • What mental capacity is required to make a will
      • How can you protect assets from assisted living costs
      • What is medicaid planning
      • What is the Massachusetts estate tax
      • Who has to worry about estate taxes
      • How to use gifts to reduce estate tax
      • What is inheritance tax
      • ​Is there inheritance tax in Massachusetts?
      • When are Massachusetts estate taxes due
      • How does a health care proxy work
      • Massachusetts law about living wills
      • Is a MOLST the same as a health care proxy
      • ​How does a durable power of attorney work?
      • Can a power of attorney make medical decisions
      • When should you update your estate plan
      • Do you need to change your will after divorce
      • Special circumstances in estate planning
      • What is a personal representative
      • Is a personal representative the same as an executor
      • Can I access my parents accounts after they die
    • Probate Process >
      • Why Do You Have to Probate an Estate
      • When Do You Have to Probate an Estate
      • Who Do You Need to Help Probate an Estate
      • Non Probate Assets >
        • Beneficiary Designations
    • Probate FAQs >
      • What is probate
      • Why you have to probate an estate
      • How to probate an estate
      • Do you need a lawyer for probate
      • What assets have to go through probate
      • What assets can pass without probate
      • How to change title to real property after a spouse dies
      • How to start the probate process
      • What is the deadline to probate an estate
      • Creditors' deadline to claim against a Massachusetts estate
  • Employment Law
    • Guide To Employment Law Content >
      • Employment Law Services Guide
      • Employment Policies and Contracts Guide
      • Non Compete Agreement Guide
      • Employment Termination Guide
      • Employment Discrimination and Harassment Guide
      • Disability and Illness in Employment Guide
      • Wage and Hour Law Guide
      • Independent Contractor Law Guide
      • Employment Litigation Guide
      • Severance Agreement Guide
      • Employer Resource Guide
    • Advice for Employers >
      • Dealing With a Problem Employee >
        • Fair Treatment as Risk Management
        • Prompt Action With Problem Employees
        • Wage and Hour Compliance in Employee Terminations
      • Employer's Guide to Discrimination Harassment and Retaliation >
        • Workplace Discrimination Employer Guide
        • Responding to a Sexual Harassment Complaint
        • Navigating an Employment Discrimination Lawsuit
        • Employer's Guide to Retaliation Laws
        • Equal Pay Act for Employers
      • Employer's Guide to Employee Illness and Family Leave >
        • Paid Family Leave and Your Small Business
        • Employer's Guide to Parental Leave Laws
        • Employer's Guide to the Earned Sick Time Law
        • Employer's Guide to Reasonable Accommodations
      • Employer's Wage and Hour and Classification Guide >
        • Employer's Guide to Wage and Hour Laws
        • Employer's Guide to Wage Deductions
        • Overtime Law for Employers >
          • Calculating Overtime Pay
        • Employee Complaints About Pay
        • Navigating a Wage and Hour Lawsuit
        • Hiring Independent Contractors in Massachusetts
      • Employer's Guide to Employment Contracts and Handbooks >
        • Employee Non Competes >
          • Non Compete for Independent Contractors
          • Beware the Free Non Compete
        • Employee Handbook >
          • Employee Handbook Basics
          • Personnel file law
          • Employer's Guide to Termination Provisions
      • Employer's Termination Guide >
        • Overview of Employment Termination Laws
        • Should You Offer Severance Pay
        • Final Paycheck Rules
        • Termination Best Practices
        • Employer Required Vaccinations Legal Considerations
      • Employment Law Case Studies >
        • Employee Non Solicit Case Study
        • Employment Termination Case Study
        • Wage and Hour and Travel Time Case Study
        • Multistate Wage and Hour Compliance Case Study
        • Termination and Unemployment Case Study
      • Employment Defense Case Studies >
        • MCAD Defense Case Study
        • Race Discrimination Defense Case Study
        • Wage Act Defense Vacation Pay Case Study
        • Defense of Wage Act Claim Case Study
        • Wage Act and Freezeout Case Study
      • Employer FAQs >
        • What employee policies do I need
        • Can you use 1099 employees in your business
        • What are the risks of hiring someone with a non compete
        • What employees are exempt from overtime
        • What employees are protected from discrimination
        • Should you use non compete agreements in your business
        • Do you have to provide paid sick time to employees
        • What are your obligations under the MA PFMLA
        • Can you reduce an employee's compensation
        • Are bonuses or commissions covered by the Wage Act
        • Do you have to give paid vacation to employees
        • Can you pay employees based on their sales
        • How should you respond to an employee request for a personnel file
        • What do employers need to know about unlawful retaliation
        • What is a restrictive convenant in an employment agreement
        • What are invention assignment and work for hire agreements
        • Should you use employment contracts in your business
        • How often do you have to pay employees
        • How should you respond to employee complaints about pay
        • Do you have to provide health insurance to employees
        • Is an employee handbook a contract?
        • What is your liability for misclassifying an independent contractor
        • What wages need to be paid on the day of termination
    • Advice for Employees >
      • Overview of Discrimination Harassment and Retaliation >
        • Discrimination in the Workplace >
          • Gender Discrimination >
            • Gender Discrimination Case Studies >
              • Gender and Equal Pay Case Study
              • Gender and Age Discrimination Case Study
              • Gender and National Origin Discrimination Case Study
              • Gender and Disability Discrimination Case Study
              • Office Manager Gender Discrimination Case Study
          • Age Discrimination >
            • Age Discrimination Case Studies >
              • Age Gender and Disability Discrimination Case Study
              • Age and Disability Discrimination Case Study
              • Age Discrimination Case Study Fitness Center
              • Age and Disability Discrimination Case Study Sales Representative
          • LGBTQ Discrimination
          • National Origin Discrimination
          • Race Discrimination >
            • Race and National Origin Discrimination Case Studies >
              • Race Discrimination Private College Case Study
              • Race Discrimination in a Bank Case Study
              • National Origin Discrimination Scientist Case Study
              • Case Study:National Origin Discrimination Commercial Bakery Case Study
              • Race Discrimination Education Case Study
              • Race Discrimination Human Resources Case Study
          • Disability Discrimination >
            • Disability Discrimination in Public Places
            • Reasonable Accommodations for Disability
            • Disability Discrimination FAQs
            • Disability Discrimination Case Studies >
              • Disability Discrimination Seizures Case Study
              • Disability Discrimination Health Care Worker Case Study
              • Disability Discrimination PTSD Case Study
              • Disability Discrimination Epilepsy Case Study
              • Disability Discrimination Workplace Injury Case Study
        • Employee Illness and Family Leave >
          • Massachusetts Paid Family Leave >
            • Paid Family Leave Basics
            • Paid Family Leave Military Families
            • Paid Family Leave Self Employed
            • Parental Leave
            • Medical Leave Case Studies >
              • Pregnancy Leave
              • Leave for Anxiety
              • Mental Health Leave
              • Leave for Fibromyalgia
          • Employee Illness and Disability
          • Earned Sick Time Law
        • Unlawful Retaliation >
          • Reporting Discrimination Retaliation Guide
          • Sexual Harassment Retaliation Guide
          • PFMLA Retaliation Guide
          • Earned Sick Time Retaliation Guide
          • Wage and Hour Retaliation Guide
          • Workers Compensation Retaliation Guide
          • Public Employee Whistleblower Retaliation Guide
          • Health Care Worker Whistleblower Retaliation Guide
          • Retaliation Case Studies >
            • Retaliation for Wage Complaint for Immigrant Case Study
            • Sexual Harassment Retaliation Case Study
            • Health Care Whistleblower Retaliation Case Study
            • Earned Sick Time Retaliation Case Study
            • Workers Compensation Retaliation Case Study
            • Family Medical Leave Retaliation Case Study
        • Sexual Harassment at Work >
          • Sexual Harassment Resources
          • Sexual Harassment in a Small Business
          • Reporting Sexual Harassment to Your Employer
          • Constructive Discharge
          • Sexual Harassment and Non Disclosure Agreements
          • Sexual Harassment and Remote Work
          • Sexual Harassment Case Studies >
            • Sexual harassment in a restaurant case study
            • Sexual harassment in a dentist office case study
            • Sexual harassment in a consulting company case study
            • Sexual harassment by Zoom case study
            • Sexual harassment by a church case study
            • Sexual harassment in a residential care facility case study
        • Equal Pay Act >
          • Equal Pay Act FAQs
          • Equal Pay Audit
        • Your Discrimination Case
      • Employment Transitions: Termination and Resignation >
        • Employment Termination >
          • Final Pay in Massachusetts
          • Performance Improvement Plan
          • Remote Work Post Pandemic
          • What is Wrongful Termination
          • What to Do if You Are Fired
          • Proving Employment Discrimination
          • Retaliatory Termination for Reporting Discrimination
          • How to Bring a Discrimination or Harassment Lawsuit >
            • Removing an MCAD Complaint
            • Removing an EEOC Complaint
          • Termination as Breach of Fiduciary Duty
        • Severance Pay >
          • Evaluating Severance Agreement
          • What is Reasonable Severance
          • Negotiating Severance
          • Severance Pay and Unemployment in Massachusetts
          • How an Attorney Can Help With Severance
          • Severance Agreement Checklist
          • Rejecting a Severance Agreement
        • Severance Consideration Period
        • How to Leave a Job >
          • Voluntary Resignation and Unemployment
          • Resigning Due to Workplace Harassment
          • Choosing to Resign Instead of Being Fired
          • Quitting a Job Without Notice
      • Non Competes and Other Employment Contracts >
        • Non Compete Agreements >
          • Are non competes enforceable
          • How does a furlough affect a non compete
          • Massachusetts Non Compete Act
          • Non competes signed before the Non Compete Act
          • Non compete lawyers at slnlaw
          • Understanding the Scope of Your Non-Compete Agreement
          • Is the geographic scope of a non compete reasonable
          • Is the time restriction in a non compete reasonable
          • Should you sign a non compete
          • Signing a non compete after starting employment
          • Severance Agreements and Non Competes
          • Non Competes and the Sale of a Business
          • Navigating a Non Compete in Your Job Search
          • Non Compete and Legitimate Business Interests >
            • Trade Secrets and Confidential Information
            • Employer Goodwill and Non Compete Agreements
          • Non Compete Case Studies >
            • Non Compete Blocking Start Up
            • Hair Salon Non Compete
            • Sales and Service Non Compete
            • Non Compete and Independent Contractor
            • Repair and Maintenance Worker Non Compete
            • Market Analyst Non Compete
            • Young Salesperson Non Compete
          • Defending a Non Compete Lawsuit >
            • Responding to a Cease and Desist Letter
            • Non Compete Lawsuit FAQs
          • Non Compete Defenses in Massachusetts
          • Non Compete and Garden Leave
          • Legal Claims Against Employer for Abuse of a Non Compete
          • Non Compete Enforcement as Tortious Interference
        • Employment Contracts in Massachusetts >
          • Restrictive Covenants >
            • Non Solicit Agreements
            • Employee Non Disclosure Agreements
            • Invention Assignment Agreements
          • Employment Arbitration Agreements
          • Employer Repayment Demands
          • Enforcing an Employer's Promises
          • Termination Provisions in an Employment Contract
      • Independent Contractor Law >
        • 5 Myths About Independent Contractors
        • Independent Contractor Test >
          • How the Massachusetts Independent Contractor Test Differs from the IRS Test
          • Damages for Independent Contractor Misclassification
        • Working As Independent Contractor
        • Independent Contractor Law in Specific Jobs
        • Independent Contractors and Paid Family Leave
        • Independent Contractor Case Studies >
          • Physician Independent Contractor
          • Delivery Driver Independent Contractor
          • Unemployment Benefits for Independent Contractor
          • Set Builders Classified as Independent Contractor
          • Fitness Instructor Independent Contractor
          • Cosmetic Sales Independent Contractor
        • Independent Contractor Roadmap
      • Wage and Hour Laws >
        • Summary of Wage and Hour Laws >
          • Common Wage and Hour Violations in Massachusetts
          • Massachusetts Minimum Wage >
            • Minimum Wage and Commission Pay
            • Tipped Minimum Wage Rules in Massachusetts
            • Minimum Wage FAQs
          • Understand Your Wage and Hour Rights
        • Massachusetts Wage Act >
          • Late Payment of Wages
          • Wage Deductions
          • Paid Time Off Under the Wage Act
          • Payment of PTO After a Change in Vacation Policy
          • Can an Employer Reduce Your Pay
          • Right to Sue for Unpaid Wages
          • Wage Act Triple Damages
          • Wage Act Case Studies >
            • Unpaid work on furlough
            • Wages Withheld for Cashflow Reasons
            • Nonpayment of part time employee
            • Unpaid vacation pay
            • Retroactive Change in Commission Policy
            • Unpaid commissions
        • Overtime Law >
          • Overtime Exemptions
          • 2020 Increase in Minimum Salary to be Overtime Exempt
          • Employee Travel Time
          • How to calculate overtime pay
          • Federal or State Overtime Law >
            • Massachusetts Overtime Exemptions
            • Comparison of Federal and State Overtime Exemptions
          • Overtime Law Case Studies >
            • Overtime for Line Supervisor
            • Overtime for Sandwich Maker
            • Attempt to Evade Overtime by Separate Paychecks
            • Overtime for a Technician
            • Overtime for an Independent Contractors
            • Overtime for Store Manager
        • Commission Pay in Massachusetts >
          • Commission or Bonus Under the Law
          • Commission Payments and Employment Termination
          • Minimum Wage Considerations for Commission Based Employees
          • Deductions from Commissions
          • Monthly or Quarterly Payment of Commissions
          • Commission Pay Case Studies >
            • Retroactive Commission Cuts
            • Commissions Delayed on Termination Case Study
            • Unjust Commissions Deductions Case Study
            • Commissions and Customer Refunds
      • Unemployment in Massachusetts >
        • Massachusetts Unemployment Benefits
        • Unemployment Overpayment
        • Massachusettts Unemployment FAQs >
          • What should you do if you are denied unemployment
          • Who is eligible to collect unemployment
          • When should you apply for unemployment
          • Does severance pay affect your unemployment benefits
          • Can you collect unemployment if you quit
          • Do you need to keep certifying while your unemployment appeal is pending
          • What happens at an unemployment appeal hearing
          • What can you do it your unemployment appeal is denied
          • What are you owed if you win your unemployment appeal
          • how do you request a waiver of unemployment overpayment
          • What are your rights if you receive an unemployment overpayment notice
          • Can you collect unemployment if you quit after your job changes
          • Can you collect unemployment if you quit for health reasons
        • Unemployment Case Studies
        • Working With Our Unemployment Team >
          • Unemployment Lawyers
          • Unemployment New Client Intake and Consultation Employment
          • Unemployment Assessment
          • Unemployment Representation
    • Working With Our Employment Law Team >
      • Employment Lawyers at slnlaw
      • Employment Case Assessment
      • Employer Case Assessment and Strategy
      • New Client Intake and Consultation Employment >
        • Employment Consult FAQs
    • Employment Law FAQs >
      • Non Compete FAQs >
        • What is a non compete
        • What is the Massachusetts Non Compete Act
        • Are non competes enforceable
        • Does the new non compete law apply to your agreement
        • Does MA non compete law apply to out of state employer
        • Is a pre 2018 non compete enforceable
        • Is your non compete enforceable
        • What is a legitimate business interest supporting a non compete
        • What is employer goodwill
        • What consideration is required for a non compete
        • How much time should you have to consider non compete
        • Is a non compete enforceable if you are laid off
        • Does a change in pay affect your non compete
        • Does it matter if the employer did not sign the non compete
        • Is a pre 2018 non compete enforceable if you are fired without cause
        • Can an independent contractor be held to a non compete
        • Can a health care professional be held to a non compete
        • How long can a non compete restriction last
        • Is a non compete clause in a severance agreement enforceable
        • Can you be held to a non compete if you are non exempt from overtime
        • What is Garden Leave
        • Difference between garden leave and a notice period
        • How much should garden leave be
        • Is a non compete void without garden leave
        • Should you have a lawyer review your non compete
        • What is the difference between a non solicit agreement and a non compete
        • What to do if you get a cease and desist letter
        • Can your new employer be sued for your non compete
        • Can you sue a former employer for using a non compete to interfere
        • Example non compete cases
      • Independent Contractor FAQs >
        • What is an independent contractor
        • What is the three part test
        • What does it mean to be free from control and direction as an independent contractor
        • What is the core business of the employer for the independent contractor test
        • What does it mean to be in the business of providing services to others
        • Who is liable for misclassification
        • What is your status if the three part test is not met
        • What happens if an independent contractor is not paid on time
        • Can an independent contractor collect unemployment
        • Can you be considered an employee if you have your own LLC
        • What you should know about working as an independent contractor
        • Exceptions to the independent contractor law
        • What are the rules about paying independent contractors
        • Can an employee agree in writing to be an independent contractor
        • Can an independent contractor sue for discrimination
        • Can a part time worker be an independent contractor
        • Can you hire independent contractors in a probationary period
        • Do you have to pay benefits if you change someone to an employee
        • What you should know about hiring independent contractors
        • What compensation are you missing as an independent contractor
        • How is Massachusetts independent contractor law different from the IRS test
        • Can an independent contractor get paid family medical leave
      • Wage Act FAQs >
        • What is the Wage Act
        • Who is covered by the Wage Act
        • When are wages due
        • What can you do if you were not paid on time
        • Can your employer reduce wages or commissions
        • Can you be paid on a commission only basis
        • Are commissions subject to the Wage Act
        • When should you be paid commissions
        • What happens to earned commissions if the comission policy changes
        • Is unused vacation time covered by the Wage Act
        • Can your employer take away vacation time by changing policies
        • What has to be paid at termination
        • When is a final paycheck due
        • What can be legally deducted from your paycheck
        • What travel time is paid time
        • Do wage and hour laws apply to on call time
        • Is your classification as an independent contractor legal
        • What is the Massachusetts minimum wage
        • Who is exempt from minimum wage
        • What is the difference between the wage act and minimum wage laws
        • What is the minimum wage for tipped emplyees
        • What are the rules about tip pooling
        • Is there a small business exception to minimum wage
        • Examples of Wage Act violations
        • Can you be fired for making a wage and hour complaint
        • What damages can you get for late or unpaid wages
      • Commission Pay FAQs >
        • What is commission pay
        • Are commissions wages
        • When is commission earned under the Wage Act
        • Can your employer define when a commission is earned
        • When are commissions earned without a policy
        • What is the difference between a commission and a bonus
        • Can commissions be paid quarterly or annually
        • Can your employer deduct expenses from commissions
        • What commissions are you owed at termination
        • How do final paycheck laws affected commission based employees
        • Does minimum wage apply to commission based employees
        • How do overtime laws affect commission based employees
      • Overtime FAQs >
        • Who is exempt from overtime
        • Are all salaried employees exempt from overtime
        • Are highly paid employees exempt from overtime
        • What is the minimum salary for overtime exemption
        • What is a bona fide executive
        • What is a bona fide professional
        • What is a bona fide administrative employee
        • Are store managers exempt from overtime
        • Does overtime law apply to truck drivers
        • Are shift supervisors exempt from overtime
        • What counts as a week for overtime
        • Does travel time count toward overtime hours
        • Does on call time count toward overtime hours
        • How to calculate the overtime premium rate
        • What is the fluctuating work week method of calculating overtime
        • Do overtime laws apply to independent contractors
        • How does Massachusetts overtime law compare to federal
        • What is overtime
        • Which employers have to pay overtime
        • What does exempt mean
        • Does overtime apply to restaurant and hotel workers
        • How is overtime calculated in biweekly payroll
        • Can an employer forbid overtime
        • Do you have to pay employees for unauthorized overtime
        • Can you fire an employee for unauthorized overtime
        • Who is responsible for tracking overtime hours
        • How can you control overtime with remote workers
        • Who enforces the overtime laws in Massachusetts?
        • What remedies can an employee get for unpaid overtime?
        • What is the overtime statute of limitations
      • Employment Termination FAQs >
        • What is employment at will
        • What is constructive discharge
        • Can you fire an employee without prior warning
        • What is employment discrimination
        • What is unlawful retaliation
        • Can employment termination be a breach of fiduciary duty
        • Can you be forced to return from remote work
        • Can you be fired for refusing the COVID vaccine
        • Can you collect unemployment if you are fired for cause
        • What are your rights at termination
        • What final pay are you owed at termination
        • When should you get your final paycheck
        • Should you be paid commissions at termination
        • What if your final paycheck is late
        • Does my employer have to give me severance pay
        • Should I sign a severance agreement
        • If you sign a severance agreement can you collect unemployment
        • What you should do if put on a performance improvement plan
        • What are best practices for firing an employee
        • Can you enforce a promise made by an employer
      • Severance Package FAQs >
        • What is a severance agreement
        • What is a reasonable amount of severance pay
        • How to evaluate a severance agreement
        • How do you know if you have legal claims you are releasing
        • How do you know what your legal claims might be worth
        • How much time should you have to consider a severance agreement
        • What does the release of claims in your severance mean
        • Can you negotiate severance terms
        • Can Your Employer Hold Vacation Pay Until You Sign a Severance Agreement?
        • Is new non compete language in a severance agreement enforceable
        • Is there a difference between lump sum severance and salary continuation
        • What are your options if you don't want to release claims
        • What does the non disparagement clause in your severance mean
        • What does the cooperation clause in your severance mean
        • Why is there a revocation period in your severance agreement
        • What if the severance agreement asks for affirmation of a non compete
        • What happens if you don't respond by the severance deadline
      • Employment Discrimination FAQs >
        • What is discrimination
        • What is wrongful termination?
        • Can I be fired without a reason
        • What are protected classes
        • What is a hostile work environment
        • Am I protected if I report discrimination
        • What is disability under the ADA
        • Does an employer have to accommodate your disability
        • What is perceived disability discrimination
        • What is Gender Discrimination
        • Can a female discriminate against another female
        • What is the law when men are paid more than women
        • Is it unlawful to discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity
        • Is sexual harassment considered discrimination
        • How to identify race discrimination
        • Can people of the same race discriminate against each other
        • Is harassment based on race or national origin illegal
        • What is the difference between race and national origin discrimination
        • Who is protected from age discrimination
        • How to identify age discrimination
        • Special considerations for older workers offered severance
        • Can your employer force you to retire
        • Are you protected if you report discrimination against a co worker
        • How to bring a discrimination or harassment lawsuit
        • Can you file a discrimination claim without a lawyer
        • What are the time limits for a discrimination claim
      • Sexual Harassment FAQs >
        • What is sexual harassment
        • What happens if you resign due to sexual harassment
        • What is quid pro quo sexual harassment
        • How should you report sexual harassment
        • What if you are fired for reporting sexual harassment
        • How should an employer respond to a sexual harassment complaint
        • What are your rights after reporting harassment
        • Is dating a coworker sexual harassment
        • What if you are being sexually harassed by a customer
        • Are off color jokes sexual harassment
        • How do you file a legal complaint for sexual harassment
        • Do sexual harassment laws apply to small businesses
        • What if the harassment is so bad you can't go to work
        • What is the statute of limitations for a sexual harassment claim
      • Medical Leave FAQs >
        • What are family and medical leave rights
        • Who is eligible for federal family medical leave
        • Do small businesses need to provide paid family medical leave
        • Who is eligible for Massachusetts paid family medical leave
        • How is paid family leave funded?
        • How to handle an employee request for leave
        • Can you terminate an underperforming employee after PFML leave
        • What is the employer contribution to PFML
        • What is the benefit year for PFML
        • What sick time do employers have to provide in Massachusetts
        • Can you hire a replacement for an employee on leave
        • What is retaliation under the PFMLA
        • Can you get family medical leave if you are self employed
        • How much paid family leave is available
        • What is an employers PFML notice responsibility
        • How much notice do employees need to provide before a PFML leave
        • How much are Massachusetts Paid Family Leave benefits
        • Do you have to provide leave beyond the time in the PFMLA
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  • Business Law
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    • Guide to Small Business Disputes >
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  • About
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We Are Here for Your Employment Law, Estate Planning and Business Law Needs

Welcome to Slnlaw

We get it.
We understand that no one wants to find themselves in a situation where they need legal assistance. Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, whether you're a small business owner, an individual facing an employment dispute, or a family concerned about estate planning.  

For Small Business Owners: As a small business owner, you've poured your heart and soul into your venture. When faced with complex legal issues, it's natural to feel a sense of frustration and uncertainty. You may be worried about the immediate cost of addressing the situation, but also the impact on your business's reputation or the well-being of your team. We're here to guide you through these challenges, providing not only legal support but also the peace of mind you need to protect what you've built.

For Individuals in Employment Disputes: Facing an employment dispute can be emotionally draining. You might feel betrayed by an employer, confused by the legal jargon, or even a sense of injustice. The stress and anxiety can take a toll on your well-being. Our team understands these feelings, because we have worked through them with literally thousands of people in situations like yours.  We're dedicated to helping you get clarity about your rights during this difficult time, and advocating for nyou if those rights were violated.   

For Families Considering Estate Planning: When it comes to estate planning, it's common to feel a mix of emotions, including concern for your loved ones' future and the fear of the unknown. You may be wondering how to ensure your family's financial security and provide for their well-being. Our estate planning services are designed to ease your worries and help you make decisions that reflect your values and priorities. We'll work together to create a plan that offers peace of mind and a sense of control over your family's future.

We've Got This

At slnlaw, we're more than just lawyers. We're problem solvers, advocates, and compassionate advisors dedicated to helping you overcome life's legal challenges. You're not alone in this journey, and we've assisted numerous individuals, families, and businesses in finding their way to the light at the end of whatever tunnel they are facing.

Our team comprises top-rated legal professionals with a wealth of experience, creativity, and a genuine commitment to serving your best interests. When you choose us, you're choosing a partner who will stand by your side, providing the support and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of the legal world.
​

Don't let legal challenges overwhelm you. Contact us today, and let's work together to find solutions and ensure a brighter, more secure future for you and your business. 
We're Here to Help.
Call (781) 784-2322
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Employment Law

Massachusetts employment law
Almost everyone encounters an employment law issue at some point in their career, whether it is a job termination, a severance agreement, a non compete situation, issues with payment of wages or commissions, independent contractor classification, or simply understanding the legal ramifications of signing a new employment contract or quitting a job.

We have seen almost every employment law situation imaginable, and helped thousands of individuals navigate the legal and practical issues they are facing. This includes negotiating severance packages, evaluating and pursuing claims for wrongful termination, discrimination or retaliation, and violations of the Massachusetts and federal wage and hour laws.  We have also helped many employees understand their options and legal obligations under non compete agreements and defend against claims from former employers for non compete violations.  

We're here to help you understand your rights and your options, and help you protect those rights if necessary.  From simple contract review to pursuing claims in court, and everything in between, our employment lawyers have the knowledge, skills and experience to guide you through it.

Guide to Employment Law Information On This Site

Estate Planning

Estate planning lawyer Massachusetts
Estate planning is often a difficult, yet critical, topic.  What will happen to your assets when you are gone, how much of your legacy can be protected against estate taxes or other costs like the costs of long term care, and how to spare your family the time and cost of probate court are some of the most common questions.

There are additional questions people often have, like who you want to have medical and financial decision making power if you are incapacitated, how to handle complex family structures, estate planning considerations for a child with disabilities or special needs, how to take care of a surviving spouse and still ensure key assets are ultimately available for your children, and more.

Finally, you may find yourself needing to understand a loved one's estate plan, either when you are dealing with the aftermath of their passing or helping aging parents with their affairs.  Understanding the scope of their durable power of attorney and health care proxy can be critical for you at this stage.  It is also in many cases a window of opportunity for them to review their plans and make sure everything is set up to go smoothly after they are gone.

We're here to help you create the documents you need to achieve your goals, whatever they are.  Whether you need a comprehensive estate planning package (a will, a trust, a durable power of attorney and a health care proxy) or something simpler, we can help you make a plan.

Guide to Estate Planning Information on This Site

Business Law

Business Lawyer Massachusetts
Whether you are starting a business, looking for ways to protect an existing business by creating the right contracts or documentation, or navigating a dispute with a customer, vendor, or another business, effective legal advice and assistance is often critical.  You want to be sure your personal assets are protected from business liabilities, and that you have clear and documented expectations with the people you do business with.  If you are partners in a business, having the right documents in place to address things like decision-making and exit is also critical to avoiding disputes in the future.

If you have employees, you also want to be sure your hiring, firing and compensation practices are in line with state and federal employment laws so that you can avoid or minimize risk and disruption to your business.  There are many mistakes that are easy to avoid but all too common that leave business owners vulnerable to a disgruntled employee or former employee.  These include misunderstanding overtime exemptions, employing people as independent contractors who do not qualify for that status under the law, missing statutory deadlines for payment of wages and commissions, and mishandling the employment termination process.

We're here to help you put the legal and practical strategies in place that you need to protect yourself and your business, avoid the cost and distraction of unnecessary legal battles, and vindicate your legal rights if needed.
 


Guide to Business Law Information on This Site

Meet Our Attorneys

Emily Smith-Lee Employment Lawyer
Emily Smith-Lee is the owner and founder of slnlaw.  She is a 1996 graduate of Boston College Law School. She was previously a partner at the Boston office of a large international firm, where she worked for thirteen years with a focus on business litigation. In 2009, she started the firm that since became slnlaw, and has grown it from a solo practice to a five-attorney firm with multiple practice areas.  She has been recognized as  Massachusetts Superlawyer each year since 2013, and in 2018 earned recognition as one of Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly's Lawyers of the Year.  She has written a book on employment law: Rules of the Road, What You Need to Know About Employment Laws in Massachusetts, and helped hundreds of small business owners with contracts, business transactions, employment law advice, business incorporation, and risk management. She has also litigated business disputes in state and federal courts.

Rebecca Rogers employment attorney
Rebecca Rogers: Rebecca is a 2006 graduate of Boston College Law School, and has worked with slnlaw since 2013.  She previously worked as an intellectual property litigation attorney for  Fish & Richardson in Boston, Massachusetts, and clerked for the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.  Rebecca has helped clients with business contracts, employment contracts, and employment law advice.

Jenna Ordway Employment Attorney
Jenna Ordway: Jenna is a 2013 graduate of Quinnipiac Law School, and also earned an LLM in Taxation from Boston University in 2015.  She has been affiliated with slnlaw since 2011, first as a law clerk and then as an attorney.  Jenna has been recognized since 2019 as a "Rising Star" by Massachusetts Superlawyers.  Jenna has helped many small business owners with simple and complex business incorporation, contract review, advice and analysis regarding business disputes, employment law advice, and advice about business succession considerations as part of estate planning.

Eli Bresley employment attorney
Elijah Bresley: Eli is a 2014 graduate of Seton Hall Law school, and has worked with slnlaw since 2020.  He previously worked for a boutique employment law firm outside of Boston, and then for the Labor and Employment department of a large Boston firm.  He also spent a year clerking for the judges of the Superior Court in Hartford, Connecticut.  Eli has helped our small business clients with employment law advice and defense of employment-related lawsuits in MCAD and state and federal courts.  

Sharleen Tinnin employment attorney
Sharleen Tinnin: Sharleen is a 2010 graduate of Northeastern University School of Law, and has been with slnlaw since 2023. Prior to joining slnlaw, she worked with King, Tilden, McEttrick & Brink, P.C. on complex civil litigation matters.  She previously worked for the United States Department of Justice, and received an "Excellence in Justice" award in 2017.  Sharleen has helped clients litigate business disputes in state and federal courts, and advised business owners about succession considerations as part of their estate planning.

Employment law MA Lawyer Emily Smith-Lee
Massachusetts employment lawyer 10 year superlawyer
Best Employment Lawyers in Boston
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Jenna Ordway
Rated by Super Lawyers


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MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER

Emily Smith-Lee Massachusetts Lawyer
"When I started this practice in 2009, I thought I knew all about being a lawyer.  I had spent thirteen years at a prestigious international law firm in Boston.  I had worked on complex cases involving large companies in many industries, from pharmaceutical to health care to seed companies.  What I did not understand then was the true power of being in a position to help ordinary people facing challenges that seem extraordinary to them.  I have had the opportunity to help families make sure the people they love the most are protected, small businesses avoid catastrophic lawsuits, entrepreneurs launch their dream without exposing their families to liability, hardworking people protect their right to be paid and treated fairly in the workplace, and more. 

Here is what I learned these people have in common: They are facing a challenge in their lives or their businesses that is unfamiliar to them.  They do not know what questions to ask.  In many cases, they do not have a great experience being heard, or feeling like someone has their back. They may have called a few law firms and, instead of finding solutions, been made to feel small, unimportant, or more overwhelmed.

I've learned that it doesn't have to be that way.  We may have seen your problem a hundred times before, but I and my team work hard to remember that it is new to you.  We do not have "big" clients and "small" clients- we have clients, whose issues are all important to us.  Our mission is to give you the best advice, advocate for your interests, help you ask the right questions, and make sure you have the information you need to make the decisions that are best for you or your business.  So that when you come out on the other side of whatever you are facing- and you will- you will have not only a resolution but clarity about how you got there, and how you can avoid that particular problem in the future.

Not sure which way to turn?  Give us a call- we'd really like to help."


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            • Sexual Harassment Retaliation Case Study
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        • Sexual Harassment at Work >
          • Sexual Harassment Resources
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          • Sexual Harassment and Remote Work
          • Sexual Harassment Case Studies >
            • Sexual harassment in a restaurant case study
            • Sexual harassment in a dentist office case study
            • Sexual harassment in a consulting company case study
            • Sexual harassment by Zoom case study
            • Sexual harassment by a church case study
            • Sexual harassment in a residential care facility case study
        • Equal Pay Act >
          • Equal Pay Act FAQs
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        • Your Discrimination Case
      • Employment Transitions: Termination and Resignation >
        • Employment Termination >
          • Final Pay in Massachusetts
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          • What is Wrongful Termination
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          • Proving Employment Discrimination
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          • How to Bring a Discrimination or Harassment Lawsuit >
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          • Termination as Breach of Fiduciary Duty
        • Severance Pay >
          • Evaluating Severance Agreement
          • What is Reasonable Severance
          • Negotiating Severance
          • Severance Pay and Unemployment in Massachusetts
          • How an Attorney Can Help With Severance
          • Severance Agreement Checklist
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        • Severance Consideration Period
        • How to Leave a Job >
          • Voluntary Resignation and Unemployment
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      • Non Competes and Other Employment Contracts >
        • Non Compete Agreements >
          • Are non competes enforceable
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          • Massachusetts Non Compete Act
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          • Understanding the Scope of Your Non-Compete Agreement
          • Is the geographic scope of a non compete reasonable
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          • Should you sign a non compete
          • Signing a non compete after starting employment
          • Severance Agreements and Non Competes
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          • Navigating a Non Compete in Your Job Search
          • Non Compete and Legitimate Business Interests >
            • Trade Secrets and Confidential Information
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          • Non Compete Case Studies >
            • Non Compete Blocking Start Up
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          • Defending a Non Compete Lawsuit >
            • Responding to a Cease and Desist Letter
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          • Non Compete Defenses in Massachusetts
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          • Legal Claims Against Employer for Abuse of a Non Compete
          • Non Compete Enforcement as Tortious Interference
        • Employment Contracts in Massachusetts >
          • Restrictive Covenants >
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      • Independent Contractor Law >
        • 5 Myths About Independent Contractors
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          • How the Massachusetts Independent Contractor Test Differs from the IRS Test
          • Damages for Independent Contractor Misclassification
        • Working As Independent Contractor
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        • Independent Contractor Case Studies >
          • Physician Independent Contractor
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          • Unemployment Benefits for Independent Contractor
          • Set Builders Classified as Independent Contractor
          • Fitness Instructor Independent Contractor
          • Cosmetic Sales Independent Contractor
        • Independent Contractor Roadmap
      • Wage and Hour Laws >
        • Summary of Wage and Hour Laws >
          • Common Wage and Hour Violations in Massachusetts
          • Massachusetts Minimum Wage >
            • Minimum Wage and Commission Pay
            • Tipped Minimum Wage Rules in Massachusetts
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          • Understand Your Wage and Hour Rights
        • Massachusetts Wage Act >
          • Late Payment of Wages
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          • Payment of PTO After a Change in Vacation Policy
          • Can an Employer Reduce Your Pay
          • Right to Sue for Unpaid Wages
          • Wage Act Triple Damages
          • Wage Act Case Studies >
            • Unpaid work on furlough
            • Wages Withheld for Cashflow Reasons
            • Nonpayment of part time employee
            • Unpaid vacation pay
            • Retroactive Change in Commission Policy
            • Unpaid commissions
        • Overtime Law >
          • Overtime Exemptions
          • 2020 Increase in Minimum Salary to be Overtime Exempt
          • Employee Travel Time
          • How to calculate overtime pay
          • Federal or State Overtime Law >
            • Massachusetts Overtime Exemptions
            • Comparison of Federal and State Overtime Exemptions
          • Overtime Law Case Studies >
            • Overtime for Line Supervisor
            • Overtime for Sandwich Maker
            • Attempt to Evade Overtime by Separate Paychecks
            • Overtime for a Technician
            • Overtime for an Independent Contractors
            • Overtime for Store Manager
        • Commission Pay in Massachusetts >
          • Commission or Bonus Under the Law
          • Commission Payments and Employment Termination
          • Minimum Wage Considerations for Commission Based Employees
          • Deductions from Commissions
          • Monthly or Quarterly Payment of Commissions
          • Commission Pay Case Studies >
            • Retroactive Commission Cuts
            • Commissions Delayed on Termination Case Study
            • Unjust Commissions Deductions Case Study
            • Commissions and Customer Refunds
      • Unemployment in Massachusetts >
        • Massachusetts Unemployment Benefits
        • Unemployment Overpayment
        • Massachusettts Unemployment FAQs >
          • What should you do if you are denied unemployment
          • Who is eligible to collect unemployment
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          • Can you collect unemployment if you quit
          • Do you need to keep certifying while your unemployment appeal is pending
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          • how do you request a waiver of unemployment overpayment
          • What are your rights if you receive an unemployment overpayment notice
          • Can you collect unemployment if you quit after your job changes
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        • Unemployment Case Studies
        • Working With Our Unemployment Team >
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    • Working With Our Employment Law Team >
      • Employment Lawyers at slnlaw
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      • New Client Intake and Consultation Employment >
        • Employment Consult FAQs
    • Employment Law FAQs >
      • Non Compete FAQs >
        • What is a non compete
        • What is the Massachusetts Non Compete Act
        • Are non competes enforceable
        • Does the new non compete law apply to your agreement
        • Does MA non compete law apply to out of state employer
        • Is a pre 2018 non compete enforceable
        • Is your non compete enforceable
        • What is a legitimate business interest supporting a non compete
        • What is employer goodwill
        • What consideration is required for a non compete
        • How much time should you have to consider non compete
        • Is a non compete enforceable if you are laid off
        • Does a change in pay affect your non compete
        • Does it matter if the employer did not sign the non compete
        • Is a pre 2018 non compete enforceable if you are fired without cause
        • Can an independent contractor be held to a non compete
        • Can a health care professional be held to a non compete
        • How long can a non compete restriction last
        • Is a non compete clause in a severance agreement enforceable
        • Can you be held to a non compete if you are non exempt from overtime
        • What is Garden Leave
        • Difference between garden leave and a notice period
        • How much should garden leave be
        • Is a non compete void without garden leave
        • Should you have a lawyer review your non compete
        • What is the difference between a non solicit agreement and a non compete
        • What to do if you get a cease and desist letter
        • Can your new employer be sued for your non compete
        • Can you sue a former employer for using a non compete to interfere
        • Example non compete cases
      • Independent Contractor FAQs >
        • What is an independent contractor
        • What is the three part test
        • What does it mean to be free from control and direction as an independent contractor
        • What is the core business of the employer for the independent contractor test
        • What does it mean to be in the business of providing services to others
        • Who is liable for misclassification
        • What is your status if the three part test is not met
        • What happens if an independent contractor is not paid on time
        • Can an independent contractor collect unemployment
        • Can you be considered an employee if you have your own LLC
        • What you should know about working as an independent contractor
        • Exceptions to the independent contractor law
        • What are the rules about paying independent contractors
        • Can an employee agree in writing to be an independent contractor
        • Can an independent contractor sue for discrimination
        • Can a part time worker be an independent contractor
        • Can you hire independent contractors in a probationary period
        • Do you have to pay benefits if you change someone to an employee
        • What you should know about hiring independent contractors
        • What compensation are you missing as an independent contractor
        • How is Massachusetts independent contractor law different from the IRS test
        • Can an independent contractor get paid family medical leave
      • Wage Act FAQs >
        • What is the Wage Act
        • Who is covered by the Wage Act
        • When are wages due
        • What can you do if you were not paid on time
        • Can your employer reduce wages or commissions
        • Can you be paid on a commission only basis
        • Are commissions subject to the Wage Act
        • When should you be paid commissions
        • What happens to earned commissions if the comission policy changes
        • Is unused vacation time covered by the Wage Act
        • Can your employer take away vacation time by changing policies
        • What has to be paid at termination
        • When is a final paycheck due
        • What can be legally deducted from your paycheck
        • What travel time is paid time
        • Do wage and hour laws apply to on call time
        • Is your classification as an independent contractor legal
        • What is the Massachusetts minimum wage
        • Who is exempt from minimum wage
        • What is the difference between the wage act and minimum wage laws
        • What is the minimum wage for tipped emplyees
        • What are the rules about tip pooling
        • Is there a small business exception to minimum wage
        • Examples of Wage Act violations
        • Can you be fired for making a wage and hour complaint
        • What damages can you get for late or unpaid wages
      • Commission Pay FAQs >
        • What is commission pay
        • Are commissions wages
        • When is commission earned under the Wage Act
        • Can your employer define when a commission is earned
        • When are commissions earned without a policy
        • What is the difference between a commission and a bonus
        • Can commissions be paid quarterly or annually
        • Can your employer deduct expenses from commissions
        • What commissions are you owed at termination
        • How do final paycheck laws affected commission based employees
        • Does minimum wage apply to commission based employees
        • How do overtime laws affect commission based employees
      • Overtime FAQs >
        • Who is exempt from overtime
        • Are all salaried employees exempt from overtime
        • Are highly paid employees exempt from overtime
        • What is the minimum salary for overtime exemption
        • What is a bona fide executive
        • What is a bona fide professional
        • What is a bona fide administrative employee
        • Are store managers exempt from overtime
        • Does overtime law apply to truck drivers
        • Are shift supervisors exempt from overtime
        • What counts as a week for overtime
        • Does travel time count toward overtime hours
        • Does on call time count toward overtime hours
        • How to calculate the overtime premium rate
        • What is the fluctuating work week method of calculating overtime
        • Do overtime laws apply to independent contractors
        • How does Massachusetts overtime law compare to federal
        • What is overtime
        • Which employers have to pay overtime
        • What does exempt mean
        • Does overtime apply to restaurant and hotel workers
        • How is overtime calculated in biweekly payroll
        • Can an employer forbid overtime
        • Do you have to pay employees for unauthorized overtime
        • Can you fire an employee for unauthorized overtime
        • Who is responsible for tracking overtime hours
        • How can you control overtime with remote workers
        • Who enforces the overtime laws in Massachusetts?
        • What remedies can an employee get for unpaid overtime?
        • What is the overtime statute of limitations
      • Employment Termination FAQs >
        • What is employment at will
        • What is constructive discharge
        • Can you fire an employee without prior warning
        • What is employment discrimination
        • What is unlawful retaliation
        • Can employment termination be a breach of fiduciary duty
        • Can you be forced to return from remote work
        • Can you be fired for refusing the COVID vaccine
        • Can you collect unemployment if you are fired for cause
        • What are your rights at termination
        • What final pay are you owed at termination
        • When should you get your final paycheck
        • Should you be paid commissions at termination
        • What if your final paycheck is late
        • Does my employer have to give me severance pay
        • Should I sign a severance agreement
        • If you sign a severance agreement can you collect unemployment
        • What you should do if put on a performance improvement plan
        • What are best practices for firing an employee
        • Can you enforce a promise made by an employer
      • Severance Package FAQs >
        • What is a severance agreement
        • What is a reasonable amount of severance pay
        • How to evaluate a severance agreement
        • How do you know if you have legal claims you are releasing
        • How do you know what your legal claims might be worth
        • How much time should you have to consider a severance agreement
        • What does the release of claims in your severance mean
        • Can you negotiate severance terms
        • Can Your Employer Hold Vacation Pay Until You Sign a Severance Agreement?
        • Is new non compete language in a severance agreement enforceable
        • Is there a difference between lump sum severance and salary continuation
        • What are your options if you don't want to release claims
        • What does the non disparagement clause in your severance mean
        • What does the cooperation clause in your severance mean
        • Why is there a revocation period in your severance agreement
        • What if the severance agreement asks for affirmation of a non compete
        • What happens if you don't respond by the severance deadline
      • Employment Discrimination FAQs >
        • What is discrimination
        • What is wrongful termination?
        • Can I be fired without a reason
        • What are protected classes
        • What is a hostile work environment
        • Am I protected if I report discrimination
        • What is disability under the ADA
        • Does an employer have to accommodate your disability
        • What is perceived disability discrimination
        • What is Gender Discrimination
        • Can a female discriminate against another female
        • What is the law when men are paid more than women
        • Is it unlawful to discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity
        • Is sexual harassment considered discrimination
        • How to identify race discrimination
        • Can people of the same race discriminate against each other
        • Is harassment based on race or national origin illegal
        • What is the difference between race and national origin discrimination
        • Who is protected from age discrimination
        • How to identify age discrimination
        • Special considerations for older workers offered severance
        • Can your employer force you to retire
        • Are you protected if you report discrimination against a co worker
        • How to bring a discrimination or harassment lawsuit
        • Can you file a discrimination claim without a lawyer
        • What are the time limits for a discrimination claim
      • Sexual Harassment FAQs >
        • What is sexual harassment
        • What happens if you resign due to sexual harassment
        • What is quid pro quo sexual harassment
        • How should you report sexual harassment
        • What if you are fired for reporting sexual harassment
        • How should an employer respond to a sexual harassment complaint
        • What are your rights after reporting harassment
        • Is dating a coworker sexual harassment
        • What if you are being sexually harassed by a customer
        • Are off color jokes sexual harassment
        • How do you file a legal complaint for sexual harassment
        • Do sexual harassment laws apply to small businesses
        • What if the harassment is so bad you can't go to work
        • What is the statute of limitations for a sexual harassment claim
      • Medical Leave FAQs >
        • What are family and medical leave rights
        • Who is eligible for federal family medical leave
        • Do small businesses need to provide paid family medical leave
        • Who is eligible for Massachusetts paid family medical leave
        • How is paid family leave funded?
        • How to handle an employee request for leave
        • Can you terminate an underperforming employee after PFML leave
        • What is the employer contribution to PFML
        • What is the benefit year for PFML
        • What sick time do employers have to provide in Massachusetts
        • Can you hire a replacement for an employee on leave
        • What is retaliation under the PFMLA
        • Can you get family medical leave if you are self employed
        • How much paid family leave is available
        • What is an employers PFML notice responsibility
        • How much notice do employees need to provide before a PFML leave
        • How much are Massachusetts Paid Family Leave benefits
        • Do you have to provide leave beyond the time in the PFMLA
        • What is the earned sick time law
        • What is the difference between PFML and Earned Sick Time
        • Do part time employees earn sick time
        • How much sick time does an employer have to provide
  • Business Law
    • Guide to Business Law Content >
      • Small Business Law Resource Center
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      • Legal Issues for Start Ups >
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    • Business Law Case Studies >
      • Business Buyout Case Study
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    • Guide to Small Business Disputes >
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      • Business Dispute Resolution Strategies >
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        • What is Arbitration >
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      • Business Dispute Case Studies >
        • Purchase Contract Dispute Case Study
        • Complex Contract Dispute Case Study
        • Predatory Emergency Services Case Study
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    • Working With Our Business Law Team >
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      • Can you operate a business as a DBA
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      • How can you get an EIN for a business
      • What do you need to know about buying a business
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      • Should you get a trademark?
      • How to register a trademark
      • What kind of customer contracts do you need
      • Should you sign an arbitration agreement
      • Should you sign a mediation provision
      • How can you protect confidential business information
      • What qualifies as a trade secret in Massachusetts
      • How to handle a business dispute
      • What is unfair competition
      • What is interference with contract
      • What are your rights as a minority shareholder
      • What is a shareholder freeze-out
  • Civil Litigation
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    • Civil Lawsuit FAQs >
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