When it comes to employment, is North Carolina an at-will state? Yes, it is. North Carolina allows employers or employees to end jobs at any time without giving a reason, except for unlawful reasons, as upheld in Kurtzman v. Applied Analytical Industries, Inc., 347 N.C. 329, 331, 493 S.E.2d 420, 423 (1997). Let’s look at what North Carolina at-will...
Continue ReadingA hostile work environment is a workplace where unwelcome conduct creates an intimidating, offensive, or abusive atmosphere, violating EEOC legal standards. Harassment is a common example of unwelcome conduct that can contribute to such an environment. North Carolina and federal statutes outlaw harassment in the workplace and provide remedies for employees suffering in hostile work environments. But while kindness...
Continue ReadingWork is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. So what do North Carolina labor laws say about breaks during the workday? Unfortunately, there are very few federal or NC labor laws about breaks at work. In fact, neither federal nor North Carolina labor laws require employers to give employees rest or meal breaks if they are over the...
Continue ReadingFinancial and employment security are vital to having a stable life and providing for yourself and your loved ones. An employer who fires you for illegal reasons jeopardizes that stability, and you may have a legal claim against them. Yes, you can file a wrongful termination lawsuit in North Carolina to enforce your rights and receive fair compensation. Wrongfully terminated...
Continue ReadingYour time and labor are valuable. They are even more valuable when you work overtime. Make sure you receive every cent your work is worth by understanding the overtime laws in North Carolina. And if your employer does not pay by the rules, you can recover everything you are owed by speaking to EMP Law’s experienced employment attorneys. With offices...
Continue ReadingAre you welcoming a new child into your family? If you are, you are probably full of excitement and questions. The big question is, How do you balance work with pregnancy or a new baby? Many employees have rights to unpaid leave and job protection, while others have rights to North Carolina paid family leave. Understanding your rights as...
Continue ReadingYou may be entitled to compensation if you have been discriminated against in the workplace. In North Carolina, federal and state laws protect employees from certain disparate treatment and unlawful discrimination. At EMP Law, our Winston-Salem and Charlotte employment discrimination lawyers can help you initiate a legal claim against your employer if you have been mistreated. This post examines the fundamentals of employment...
Continue ReadingDiscrimination based on age is a problem that continues to plague American workplaces. It happens when an employer treats an employee or job applicant less favorably due to their age. According to the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, over 10,000 workers filed age discrimination claims with the agency in 2022. In the Tarheel State, it is illegal to discriminate...
Continue ReadingIn North Carolina, labor laws can be complex, so it may be challenging to understand what rights you are entitled to as an employee. North Carolina labor laws for salaried employees outline specific regulations regarding wages, overtime, and benefits, which can further complicate matters. If you believe your rights have been violated, you should reach out to an experienced employment...
Continue ReadingFinding the right employment lawyer in North Carolina can significantly impact the outcome of your case, whether you’re facing workplace discrimination, negotiating a contract, or dealing with wrongful termination. Finding the best employment lawyer for your specific needs requires more than a cursory online search. If you are wondering how to find a good employment lawyer in North Carolina,...
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