Massachusetts Employment Law
The Employment RelationshipThe employment relationship, aside from familial bonds, stands as one of the most significant connections in one's life.
The Employer's Perspective For employers, the foundation of a successful business lies in their workforce. Effective employees are indispensable to the smooth operation of your enterprise. Payroll also usually represents the single largest operating expense for a small business. Small business owners face tough decisions every day when it comes to employees. These decisions can often evoke feelings of anger, disappointment, and worry. Moreover, often managing various financial obligations makes it difficult for a small business owner to focus on employment issues before they become a bigger problem. The Employee's Perspective As an employee, your job offers not only financial security but also contributes to your status, self-esteem, and overall satisfaction. If you lose your job, what you are facing usually isn't just about monetary loss. It also includes feelings of insult, humiliation, anger, fear about the future, and much more. When you are not paid what you are owed, or not paid at all, it can have disastrous consequences for you and your family. Our Unique Approach Unlike many employment law firms, we specialize in assisting both employees and small business owners. Our approach allows us to consider both perspectives, ensuring the best outcomes for your unique situation. |
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Wondering What Your Employment Law Rights Are?
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Common Employment Law Problems
While the landscape of employment law is vast, some recurrent issues include:
- Employment Discrimination: It's crucial for both employers and employees to understand the rules governing terminations and disciplinary decisions.
- Sexual Harassment: Employers must be aware of their obligations in handling allegations of harassment, and employees have important rights in such cases.
- Equal Pay Laws: Pay equality between genders is a legal requirement, but its application can be intricate, with significant penalties for non-compliance.
- Family Medical Leave and Earned Sick Time: New laws grant workers substantial rights, and failure to honor them can lead to substantial costs for employers.
- Non-Compete Agreements: The Massachusetts Non-Compete Act has added complexity to this area of law, affecting agreements signed after October 1, 2018.
- Independent Contractor Classification: Understanding the legal distinctions between contractors and employees is crucial to avoid potential liabilities, and to make sure that people who should be paid as employees receive the legal protections they deserve.
- Overtime Pay: Many employers misunderstand federal and state overtime rules. Salary alone doesn't exempt employees; job duties play a vital role.
- Wages, Commissions, and Final Pay: The Massachusetts Wage Act is strictly enforced and extends to commissions and regular wages.
- Retaliation: Engaging in "protected activities" is a right under the law, and any negative actions taken in response are unlawful.
How Our Employment Lawyers Can Help
We can help you assess your employment situation and get clarity on your rights and obligations. You can use the button below to schedule a call back from a member of our team, or give us a call at 781-784-2322.