Our firm understands that employment is more than a job; it is vital to your life and well-being. We focus on protecting and advocating for New Jersey employees’ rights and benefits. We stand with you, from wage and hour disputes to family leave rights and whistleblower protections.
Fair compensation for your work is a foundational right. Laws at the federal level, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), establish the minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards affecting employees in the private sector and Federal, State, and local governments. Yet, these fundamental rights can often be infringed upon. We help employees navigate the complexities surrounding wage disputes, overtime pay issues, and wage theft claims.
An equally important aspect of employment law concerns leave rights. The New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave in a 24-month period for the birth or adoption of a child, to care for a family member with a serious health condition, or to provide care or treatment for a child. This law has complexities, and we are here to guide you through your rights and obligations under the NJFLA.
New Jersey and Federal law recognize the importance of time off for certain civic obligations and personal responsibilities. However, an employee’s right to leave extends beyond family and medical issues. For instance, laws protect your right to take leave for jury duty, to vote, and sometimes to handle matters related to domestic violence or sexual assault. Your rights extend to ensuring that you are not penalized for exercising these leave rights.
Workplace safety is another crucial part of the employment relationship. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) sets the standards for a safe and healthy workplace and ensures employers provide conditions free from known hazards. Yet, there may be times when your safety in the workplace is compromised.
The Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) is useful in these instances. Known as the “whistleblower act,” the CEPA provides extensive protections for employees who disclose, object to, or refuse to participate in certain actions that the employee reasonably believes are either illegal or violate public policy. This law covers various issues, from environmental hazards to healthcare fraud. However, whistleblower cases can be particularly challenging due to their complexity and the potential backlash from employers. Our role is to provide legal guidance to navigate this complex area of law and safeguard your rights.
Furthermore, your employment relationship should also respect your right to privacy. From issues surrounding background checks to confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements to monitoring and surveillance in the workplace, we understand the delicate balance between the employer’s needs and employees’ privacy rights.
Lastly, knowing that your rights continue despite severance of employment is vital. Whether due to layoffs, downsizing, or termination of work, you have rights regarding severance packages, unemployment benefits, and in certain circumstances, continuation of health insurance coverage. We’re here to help you understand and protect these rights as well.
At Risman & Risman, P.C., we advocate for employee rights and benefits. Our focus is empowering you, the employee, by providing comprehensive and thoughtful legal guidance. While we handle your legal matters, you can focus on what truly matters – living your life. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation online or at (212) 233-6400.
