Atlantic County Employment Law Firm Dedicated to Protecting Workers’ Rights
The Atlantic County employment lawyers at Burnham Douglass advocate and fight for workers in Northfield, Egg Harbor, Somers Point, and throughout South Jersey. Workers have the right to fair compensation and privacy, as well as the right to an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. Our dedicated team fights to protect your rights and work diligently to resolve your case with the best outcome.
Top-Notch Employment Law Representation
We recognize that each case is different, and we will treat your unique case in a professional and ethical manner. We will provide feedback and updates when necessary and can handle any problems or questions you may have. We always keep your best interests in mind, striving to build a formidable case.
Why Clients in Atlantic County Turn to Us for Their Legal Needs
With over 60 years of combined experience, the experienced team at Burnham Douglass Attorneys at Law provide incredible service while delivering resolutions for even the most complex legal matters. We are successful in handling a variety of legal cases, particularly employment law cases:
Wrongful Termination
If you were fired for an illegal reason such as retaliation, whistleblowing harassment, or discrimination, then you may be able to file a wrongful termination claim. You may do so under laws such as the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) or the Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA). Although New Jersey follows a doctrine of “at-will” employment, it does not put your employer above the law. There are limitations to “at-will” employment, and a knowledgeable lawyer at Burnham Douglass can answer any questions concerning employment law.
Many wrongful termination cases may include firing an employee for reporting sexual harassment or as a use of retaliation. Other scenarios that could be considered wrongful termination include laying off a worker because of their age in favor of someone younger, terminating an employee for unionizing, or firing an employee who is on FMLA leave.
Retaliation
There are times when an employee may fear retaliation from another coworker, or their employer should they speak up about an illegal action at their work or an unlawful treatment of another worker. The employee may be reluctant to report any misbehavior for fear of being fired, demoted, or harassed.
Sexual Harassment
There are many state and federal laws that protect employees from sexual harassment, which is any type of unwanted sexual advancement that creates a hostile work environment. Sexual harassment can happen to either man or woman, and regardless of gender. It can be as obvious as unwanted touching but can be much subtler, such as inappropriate language or repeated compliments.
There are two types of sexual harassment: hostile work environment and quid pro quo. A hostile work environment consists of unwanted sexual conduct that makes the employee unable to work in those types of conditions. Quid pro quo consists of a supervisor asking an employee for sexual favors in exchange for an increase in salary or some other form of employee action.
Employees suffering from sexual harassment must first use internal complaint procedures first. They must directly ask the offender to stop their conduct first, either through email or face-to-face, before going to a supervisor with an official complaint. Victims of sexual harassment must then document the incident as best as possible and then contact an employment attorney right away.
Discrimination
Discriminating against an employee or prospective employee based on their age, gender, race, religion, or disability is illegal. The New Jersey Civil Union Act and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination protect those of the aforementioned classes and others, including creed, national origin, nationality, ancestry, pregnancy, gender identity or mental and physical disability.
Unfortunately, many discrimination cases go unreported, either because of fear of retaliation or the victim believes it is useless to pursue. Victims need to gather the right evidence to help with their case, such as emails, video, photo evidence, or testimony from a colleague. It is courageous to file a discrimination claim, and we will fight alongside all victims of discrimination.
Whistleblower Actions
Reporting on unethical or illegal conduct in the workplace is a protected action. It takes courage to expose such behavior, which many people do not for fear of retaliation. Our experienced legal team will defend you and your rights against retaliation.
A whistleblower may face different kinds of retaliation, not just termination. They may encounter sudden negative performance reviews, a reduction in hours or pay, demotions or passed over promotions, or exclusion from company events, meetings, or programs.
Employment Contracts
There are many different forms of employment contracts in the workplace. There are signed contracts, oral agreements, or a non-written contract such as an implied contract. If the terms or conditions of that contract have been broken or violated by anyway by the employer, then the employee has the right to hold the employer accountable. Other types of employment contracts include confidentiality agreements or a noncompetition agreement. It is recommended that a lawyer review any employment contract you enter into it.
Hostile Work Environment
Workers are protected from a hostile work environment. Employees who experience harassment or unwanted behavior which makes it difficult to perform their work duties are legally allowed to hold their employer accountable if they do not fix the issue.
Wage and Hour Disputes
Employers must follow state and federal wage laws, and we work to enforce those laws. Wage and hour disputes can include disputes over overtime wages, illegally withheld benefits, withholding earned pay, or failing to pay earned bonuses or commissions.
Speak to Our Dedicated Employment Lawyers in Somers Point
Our trusted firm has decades of experience and knowledge that can be applied to any legal issue you come across. Our honesty and unique approach are tailor fit to meet your needs and goals.
- Our firm has over 60 years of combined legal experience.
- We strive for top-notch service with each and every client and their families.
- We offer free consultations for family and employment law cases.
- Our firm works one-on-one with you and proactively build your case.
Atlantic County Employment Lawyers at Burnham Douglass Advocate for Workers in All Types of Employment Cases
If you or a loved one has a legal issue at work, contact the Atlantic County employment lawyers at Burnham Douglass right away. Call us at 856-751-5505 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our offices located with Marlton and Northfield, New Jersey, we proudly serve all clients of New Jersey, Camden County, Burlington County, Atlantic County, Gloucester County, and Mercer County.
