Columbus Employment Lawyer
Federal and state employment laws are designed to protect the rights of both employees and employers. Navigating these laws can be complex, especially when disputes arise. Whether there are wage and overtime disputes, alleged wrongful termination, workplace 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.
At Kohl & Cook Law Firm, our Columbus employment law attorneys represent workers and employers in all sorts of legal disputes. You need a law firm that looks out for your best interests and provides you with sound advice. Call our firm if you have questions about your legal rights.
Ohio Employment Law
We Help Employees and Employers 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 still some limitations on an employer’s ability to discharge an employee. An employer cannot violate an employment contract or terminate someone for refusing to perform illegal acts or for complaining about illegal acts performed by the employer.
- Workplace Discrimination
- Gender discrimination: This includes quid pro quo demands for sexual activity and/or creation of a hostile work environment based on gender and/or sexual orientation. We deal with allegations of both men and women harassed by supervisors or coworkers. This includes discrimination claims based on all kinds of sexual orientation. Employees can receive compensation, including backpay, front pay, emotional distress damages, punitive damages and attorney fees and costs.
- Age discrimination: Workers over 40 years of age are protected from employment termination based on their age.
- Race discrimination: Workers are protected from racial discrimination and harassment. Employees cannot face any negative employment action based on your race and can sue if the workplace is unduly hostile due to racial jokes, slurs, epithets or other offensive behavior.
- Disability discrimination: The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, other federal laws, and accompanying state laws potentially provide powerful remedies to workers with chronic physical and mental health issues. Under the law, an employer must provide reasonable accommodations of aspects such as equipment, workspace modification, or work schedule changes so that a disabled employee can perform the essential functions of their job.
- Retaliation: Employees cannot be retaliated against in any manner employers for complaining about unlawful discrimination against them or their coworkers. This includes the good faith filing of a Charge of Discrimination with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission and/or EEOC.
- Family and Medical Leave Act: This federal law applies to certain Ohio employers and gives covered employees the right to take up to twelve weeks per year of unpaid leave for certain temporary or chronic health conditions and/or childbirth/adoption, or to provide care for an ailing family member.
- Military service members rights: Those serving in the military, including reservists and National Guard members, have leave rights and the right to certain pay-related benefits.
- Whistleblower protections: Various whistleblower laws provide protection to workers, but these laws are intricate and difficult to understand. Legal advice is crucial for both employees and employers in these situations.
- Overtime disputes: Federal and Ohio wage and hour laws govern minimum wage, overtime pay, and other compensation-related matters. Employers and employees may face issues with unpaid overtime, being misclassified as exempt from overtime, being misclassified as an independent contractor, or not receiving the minimum wage required by law.
- Unemployment compensation claims: Employees who are not discharged for just cause are entitled to unemployment compensation benefits. Employers who discharge an employee for just cause can defend such claims to avoid an increase in their percentage experience rate. Kohl & Cook can assist either side of this contentious issue.
Any worker who has faced discrimination or other illegal conduct might file a lawsuit or an administrative charge. Our Ohio employment law attorneys can give experienced advice to help gather sufficient evidence so that you win and/or defend your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call Kohl & Cook Law Firm. We have a firm grasp of all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
What to Do if You Have an Employment Issue in Columbus, Ohio
If you are facing an employment issue, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Document Everything
Keep detailed records of any incidents related to your issue. This includes saving emails, written communication, and notes from employer/employee conversations. If the issue involves discrimination, harassment, or wage disputes, having clear documentation can be crucial.
- Know Your Rights
Understanding the scope and coverage of Ohio and federal employment laws is crucial to what actions can or should be taken in any given situation. Seek the advice of legal counsel early in the process to avoid misunderstandings as to your legal rights.
- Report the Issue Internally
If you’re experiencing harassment, discrimination, or other illegal activity, consult your employee handbook or contact your HR department or supervisor for how to report the issue(s). Companies are generally required by law to investigate and address workplace discrimination issues once they are reported. If an employer fails to take corrective action, they may face legal repercussions.
- 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, protect your rights and understand your risks.
Ohio Employment Law Attorneys Kohl & Cook Law Firm Can Help
At Kohl & Cook Law Firm, we are committed to assisting employees and employers in Columbus, OH. 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.
Negotiation and Litigation: Whether your case requires negotiation 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 or your business are facing employment issues in Ohio, 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 and federal employment law and experience in resolving complex employment disputes, we are ready to vindicate your rights. Contact our Columbus employment lawyers today for a consultation and let us help you find the best path forward.
