The majority of employees in many countries work as a way of earning a living. To others, their careers and jobs define who they are as a person. Therefore, understanding their rights in employment places is essential to provide for the family as well as remain happy and healthy. The law clearly outlines the rights of every employee to ensure they are not discriminated against in workplaces. Consult with an employment lawyer in Trenton, NJ, to know your options if you are a victim of retaliation, wrongful termination, or any other injustice. Here are your rights in New Jersey:
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Time off work
Did you know that you have permission to apply for time off from work in addition to the standard personal days, vacation time, paid time off, and sick leave? According to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), you have the right to take some time off to take care of a family member suffering from a severe medical condition or bond with a newborn child. Other rights to take time off include domestic violence leave, parental leave, paid family leave, and temporary disability benefits.
Employees attending to civic responsibility of voting or serving on a jury can take time off without the fear of retaliation or wrongful termination. The federal law also prohibits employers from deducting salaries from employees serving on a jury unless they spent more than one week away from work. Time off from work after domestic violence is usually meant to seek medical attention, attend court proceedings, and receive necessary counseling.
Discrimination and harassment law
Harassment and discrimination in workplaces is a direct violation of title vii of the civil rights act of 1964. The act prohibits employers from discriminating against their workers based on their race, age, sex, religion, gender, and national origin. Therefore, you should talk to a lawyer if you feel that the employer, supervisor, or other staff is mistreating you because of any mentioned factors. You should not be denied employment or fired because of your sex, religion, or even pregnancy.
Wage and hour rules
New Jersey provides strict guidelines on wages for all workers. The law states that the minimum wage in New Jersey as of 2014 is $8.25 per hour, and any overtime for hours exceeding 40 must be paid to hourly workers. Contact a legal professional if you have missed payment to recover the damages.
Sexual harassment
An employee in New Jersey and almost every other state in the U.S. can reject sexual advances from anyone in the workplace without fear of retaliation. If the choice creates a hostile working environment, you have the right to sue your employer for compensation.
Protecting your rights in New Jersey
As you have learned, there are so many ways the law protects workers in New Jersey against unethical practices by their employers. Discuss anything you feel is wrong with an experienced attorney to know whether you have a case.
— Zatuchni & Associates, Employment Lawyers