Employment Law - Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Employment Law?
2. I have a dispute with a former employee, but we don’t have a written contract. Is it even possible to use a lawyer?
3. A senior employee of mine left the services of my consulting company and wants to take a major client with him. Can I stop him from doing this?
4. I used to work for a very large corporation and was recently laid off because of a chronic illness. I think this dismissal was unfair. I am just one person, with a limited means of employment because of my illness and they have a whole legal department. Is it even worth my while to hire a lawyer?
5. During a job interview I was asked for my date of birth. I was subsequently turned down for the position and feel that it was because of my age. Can a lawyer help me make a claim?
6. 6. I was recently fired from a job and have been asked to sign a release clause as part of a severance agreement. Should I talk to a lawyer before I do this?

1. What is Employment Law?


Employment law encompasses the many areas of workplace relationships and obligations, such as: wrongful dismissal, hiring practices, employment contracts, minimum wage, pension rights, and human rights in the workplace.


2. I have a dispute with a former employee, but we don’t have a written contract. Is it even possible to use a lawyer?


An employment contract does not have to be written. A good employment lawyer is often also an excellent negotiator who can help you determine your rights, and the relevant legal issues to help you resolve a dispute quickly and fairly.


3. A senior employee of mine left the services of my consulting company and wants to take a major client with him. Can I stop him from doing this?


An employment lawyer will help you determine what your rights are in relation to your former employee and client. In situations such as this, an expert in employment law can often guide you to a successful resolution.


4. I used to work for a very large corporation and was recently laid off because of a chronic illness. I think this dismissal was unfair. I am just one person, with a limited means of employment because of my illness and they have a whole legal department. Is it even worth my while to hire a lawyer?


Employment lawyers will often work on a retainer or a percentage fee upon settlement. It is worth your time to seek a lawyer who can help you determine if you can negotiate a settlement, or if you have been discriminated against.


5. During a job interview I was asked for my date of birth. I was subsequently turned down for the position and feel that it was because of my age. Can a lawyer help me make a claim?


A lawyer who is familiar with employment human rights issues can help you determine if your rights have been violated.


6. I was recently fired from a job and have been asked to sign a release clause as part of a severance agreement. Should I talk to a lawyer before I do this?


The law regarding severance agreements and termination of employment is complex. In situations like this it is important to seek the advice of an expert employment lawyer.