You may be a very conscientious employer who believes in doing only the right thing. This careful and considerate approach may spare you of major employee issues. Even so, there can be situations where you might need the advice and help of an employment lawyer.
The governmental agencies can bring about changes in the employment law whenever they deem fit. The technicalities involved are such that wrong interpretation of the law can lead you to huge loss of money and reputation. Therefore, it makes sense to get professional legal help in these matters. At the same time, you should know that lawyers cost money and you may not be able to afford running to one every time you have an employment-related decision to make. The thing is to evaluate and know which situations call for hiring legal services. Some issues that you should entrust to an employment law specialist are:
- Guidance on difficult employment decisions: Firing an employee is a difficult decision as the concerned employee might retaliate with legal action. You should consult an employment lawyer who can review the circumstances and guide you about the appropriateness of the decision. You might also need legal advice when you are contemplating major employment decisions such as change in pension plans, layoffs, discontinuing an employee benefit, etc.
- Representation: During the course of work, you might develop problems with an employee. In case such an employee files a complaint against you and initiates an administrative or legal proceeding, you would need an employment law solicitor to advice you, represent you and help protect your rights as an employer.
- Documentation: You should always get an employment lawyer to review your personnel policies, employee handbook and agreements like employment contracts, releases, severance agreements, etc. A knowledgeable professional will make sure that the documents are not in violation of employees’ rights and have the proper legal terms and language to make them enforceable by law.
Once you are convinced that it would be wise to consult an employment lawyer, the next thing to do is to find a knowledgeable, experienced and reliable professional. Your choice of a solicitor has a significant bearing on your business and so, the decision has to be taken with great care.
One reliable source is referrals from your industry associates. People with legal needs and issues similar to yours can guide you towards the right lawyers with proven expertise. Yet another dependable resource is the local online business directories. You can search across them for reputable local employment law specialists and read up their comprehensive profiles. You will also get their contact details through which you can acquire further information that helps you make a decision.
