Knowing Your Rights As A Worker

When an employer hires you to do a job, they give you an opportunity to provide for yourself, and create a successful career. While your employer probably gives you a lot, you have certain rights as an employee that cannot be trampled on. In many cases, an employee does not want to get into any altercations with an employer, since it could fundamentally change their relationship. However, sometimes the issue cannot be avoided. As a worker, it’s up to you to know your rights.

Workplace Injury

If you are injured while on the job, you have the right to be compensated. In most cases, you can file a claim with workers compensation through your employer. Your employer has to pay into workers compensation in case anyone is hurt. You can get money for lost wages, medical bills and rehabilitation costs while you are not working due to injury. Sometimes, you may need to work with workplace lawyers to make sure that you are treated fairly when a claim is needed.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is another area that often comes up in the workplace. As an employee, you have a right to be treated fairly and not subjected to sexual harassment. If your employer is subjecting you to this type of treatment, it may be in your best interest to consult one of the employment lawyers in your area.

Termination

Sometimes, employees have to pursue legal action when they are terminated without a legitimate reason. Anytime an employee is terminated, it creates an awkward situation between the employer and the former employee. If employment contracts were involved, it can also lead to further issues. If you have an employment contract, and the employer violated it when firing you, it is probably in your best interest to hire an attorney to represent you. The employment attorney will try to get you a fair settlement for getting fired by your employer.

These issues can also become a factor if you are trying to get unemployment compensation. The reason for your termination will determine whether you are able to get unemployment benefits or not. If you are let go due in no part to something that you did, then you should be able to get unemployment benefits. If you are fired for cause, then it will be difficult to get the same benefits.

If you are confused about your rights as an employee, it never hurts to consult with a qualified employment attorney in your area.