what is employee protections
As an independent contractor, you can set your own hours, choose which jobs to take and which not to, and hire only the subcontractors and assistants that you would like to work with. Though this type of self-employment has its perks, working as an employee may offer you greater rights and protection under the law.
What Benefits Can I Receive as an Employee?
Regardless of whether you are an at-will employee or have signed an employment contract, you are protected by both state and federal employment laws. These laws set the guidelines for safety and health standards, dictate wage and hour regulations, and establish the benefits to which employees are entitled by law.
Some of the benefits that your employer must provide for you are: How Am I Protected as an Employee?
Employees are afforded all of the protections included in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), as well those in the labor code of the state in which they work. These generally ensure that they are paid the federal minimum wage and that they get overtime pay.
Employees also have a certain element of job security, in that while a contractor's work is done once a task is finished, an employee can not be fired simple for finishing a task that he/she was assigned to.
Employment laws also seek to protect employees from discrimination or harassment in the workplace, and forbid your employer from retaliating against you if you engage in whistleblowing. Should I Contact an Attorney About My Employment Issue?
If you believe that you are an employee, but your employer considers you an independent contractor, you may be getting cheated out of a number of benefits. An attorney with employment experience can help you in making sure that your employment status is correct and that you are receiving the protection you are entitled to.
An attorney with employment litigation experience can also represent you should you wish to take legal action against your employer for a violation of state or federal employment laws. He or she can help preserve your rights seek the remedies available to you. |
