Columbus Employment Lawyer
Workers are the backbone of the Columbus economy, but many are treated unfairly. Not only do employers illegally discriminate in hiring and promotion, but harassment is far too common. At Kohl & Cook Law Firm, our Columbus employment law attorney represents workers in all sorts of legal disputes. Your employer will have a law firm at its disposal, and you need someone looking out for your best interests. Call our firm if you have questions about your legal rights.
Ohio Employment Law
Employment law in Columbus, OH, is designed to protect the rights of both employees and employers. Navigating these laws can be complex, especially when disputes arise. Whether you’re dealing with wage disputes, wrongful termination, discrimination, or workplace harassment, understanding your rights and the available legal remedies is crucial. Kohl & Cook Law Firm has extensive experience in helping individuals and businesses resolve employment issues and can provide the guidance you need during these challenging times.
We Help Employees with All Types of Legal Disputes
Contact us if you need assistance with any of the following claims:
- Wrongful termination: Although Ohio is an at-will employment state, there are limitations on your employer’s ability to fire you legally. An employer cannot violate an employment agreement or terminate someone for a protected characteristic, such as age, race, gender, or sexual orientation.
- Sexual harassment: Both quid pro quo and hostile work environments are illegal. Our clients include men and women harassed by supervisors or even coworkers. You could receive compensation, as well as backpay, front pay, and emotional distress damages.
- Age discrimination: Workers are protected from discrimination based on their age. Unfortunately, too many employers push older workers out the door, and you might have a legal claim for compensation.
- Race discrimination and harassment: Columbus workers are protected from racial discrimination and harassment. You cannot face any negative employment action because of your race, and you can sue if your workplace is hostile due to racial jokes, slurs, epithets or other offensive behavior.
- Disability discrimination: The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 provides powerful remedies to those disabled workers facing discrimination. Under the law, an employer must provide reasonable accommodations, such as a modification to a workspace or work schedule so that a disabled employee can perform their job.
- Family and Medical Leave Act: This federal law applies to certain Ohio employers and gives covered employees the right to take unpaid leave for certain reasons, such as to receive medical care or provide care for a family member.
- Retaliation: Too many employers retaliate against workers for exercising their rights at work. For example, you cannot face retaliation for filing or participating in a discrimination claim or for filing for workers’ compensation.
- Whistleblower protections: Workers who “blow the whistle” on illegal company conduct should be celebrated, not attacked. Sadly, many workers are fired or demoted when they shine a light on illegal behavior at their jobs. Various whistleblower laws provide protection to workers, but it’s not always clear whether you are protected.
Any worker who has faced discrimination or other illegal conduct might file a lawsuit or an administrative charge. Our Columbus employment law attorney can determine which route to take and help gather sufficient evidence so that you win your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Many workers are unsure of whether their rights were violated. Call Kohl & Cook Law Firm. We have a firm grasp of all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
Common Employment Issues
Employment disputes can arise in many forms, often leaving employees feeling powerless or unsure of their rights. Here are some of the most common employment law issues in Columbus:
- Wage and Hour Disputes: Ohio’s wage and hour laws govern minimum wage, overtime pay, and other compensation-related matters. Employees may face issues with unpaid overtime, being misclassified as exempt from overtime, or not receiving the minimum wage required by law.
- Wrongful Termination: Being fired for unlawful reasons is a violation of employment law. Wrongful termination can occur if an employee is fired for discriminatory reasons, retaliation, or in violation of a contract. Employers must adhere to state and federal employment laws when making decisions about termination.
- Discrimination: Employment discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. The Ohio Civil Rights Act and federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibit workplace discrimination.
- Workplace Harassment: Workplace harassment, including sexual harassment, is illegal and can create a hostile work environment. Employees have the right to work in a safe environment free from harassment, and employers are required to take steps to prevent and address such behavior.
- Retaliation: Employees who report illegal activities or participate in workplace investigations are protected from retaliation. If an employer takes adverse action, such as demotion or firing, against an employee for engaging in protected activity, it is considered illegal retaliation.
What to Do if You Have an Employer Issue in Columbus, OH
If you are facing an employment issue, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case:
1. Document Everything
Keep detailed records of any incidents related to your issue. This includes saving emails, written communication, and notes from conversations with your employer. If your issue involves discrimination, harassment, or wage disputes, having clear documentation can be crucial.
2. Know Your Rights
Understanding your rights under Ohio and federal employment laws is key to ensuring they are not violated. Familiarize yourself with state statutes, such as the Ohio Fair Employment Practices Act, as well as federal laws like the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
3. Report the Issue Internally
If you’re experiencing harassment, discrimination, or other illegal activity, report it to your HR department or supervisor. Companies are often required by law to investigate and address workplace issues once reported. If your employer fails to take corrective action, you may have additional legal recourse.
4. Seek Legal Assistance
Employment law disputes are often complex and may involve nuanced interpretations of state and federal statutes. Consulting with an experienced employment lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Serving Columbus & Beyond
- Short North
- German Village
- Victorian Village
- Arena District
- Clintonville
- Italian Village
- Olde Towne East
- Grandview Heights
- Dublin
- Worthington
- Bexley
- Harrison West
- Merion Village
- Brewery District
- Franklinton
- University District
- Eastmoor
- North Linden
- Westerville
- Hilliard
Columbus Employment Law Attorneys Kohl & Cook Law Firm Can Help
At Kohl & Cook Law Firm, we are committed to fighting for employees’ rights in Columbus, OH. We understand how challenging it can be to confront an employer over workplace issues, and we are here to provide you with the support and legal expertise you need to achieve a fair outcome. Here’s how we can assist:
Legal Consultation and Case Evaluation: We will assess your case and provide a clear understanding of your legal options. Whether you are dealing with wage disputes, wrongful termination, or discrimination, we will guide you through every step of the process.
Wage and Hour Disputes: Our team will help you recover any unpaid wages or overtime you are owed under Ohio and federal wage laws. We’ll handle negotiations with your employer and, if necessary, take your case to court to secure fair compensation.
Filing Discrimination and Harassment Claim: If you have experienced discrimination or harassment in the workplace, Kohl & Cook will help you file claims with the appropriate agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. We will work to hold your employer accountable and seek damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and other related losses.
Wrongful Termination Claims: If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your termination and build a strong case to pursue reinstatement, compensation, or both.
Employer Retaliation: We are experienced in handling cases of employer retaliation and will help protect your rights if you’ve faced adverse action after reporting workplace misconduct or exercising your legal rights.
Negotiation and Litigation: Whether your case requires negotiation with your employer or full-scale litigation, we have the experience and resources to achieve the best possible outcome. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and fierce litigators dedicated to achieving justice for our clients.
If you are facing employment issues in Columbus, OH, don’t wait to take action. Kohl & Cook Law Firm is here to provide the legal support and representation you need. With our knowledge of Ohio employment law and experience in resolving complex employment disputes, we are ready to fight for your rights. Contact our Columbus employment lawyers today for a consultation and let us help you find the best path forward.
