When Does an Employer Need an Employment Lawyer?
Running a business is about striking the perfect balance, especially when it comes to employment matters. You need an employment attorney for certain aspects of running your business, but you don’t need one for every decision and transaction. This article will help you determine which instances call for the skilled attorneys at Spivey, Pope, Green & Greer.
Contracts
Documents such as employment contracts or severance agreements should include everything you want or need them to include and be legally binding. This can be a tough undertaking without a lawyer. Consulting a lawyer while drafting important business documents will protect you from liability and ensure you are following all employment laws.
Firing
You shouldn’t need a lawyer every time you fire an employee, but there are instances when hiring an attorney is necessary. If you are worried that an employee might sue you if you fire him or her, you should definitely consult a lawyer. Other reasons to talk to a lawyer when firing employees include:
- If the employee has a contract, or believes he or she has a contract, limiting your right to fire him or her
- If the employee’s benefits, stock options, or retirement money is due to vest soon
- If the employee filed a complaint or claim to you or a government agency of unethical conduct, discrimination, or harassment
- If the employee belongs to a protected class
- If you are concerned the employee might be violent
- If the employee has access to trade secrets
For other instances when firing someone might require an attorney, read this article.
Lawsuits
Of course, it’s always a good idea to hire an attorney when facing a lawsuit. You should never put your business at risk by DIY-ing a court case. As soon as you know that an employee is suing your company, you need to hire a lawyer, because meeting deadlines early in the case is crucial to your case’s success.
The attorneys at SPGG Law have extensive experience in numerous aspects of employment law and human resources. Schedule a consultation today to see how we can help you.