Addressing Mental Health Issues in the New York Workplace: Legal Perspectives
Mental health is no longer a taboo topic in the workplace — and that’s a good thing. However, increased awareness also raises important legal questions. What responsibilities do employers have when an employee discloses a mental health condition? And what rights do workers have when depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another mental health...
The Rights of Undocumented Workers Under NYC Employment Law
Many undocumented workers in New York City live with a difficult reality: they help drive the city’s economy while fearing they have no legal protections at work. Employers often take advantage of this fear, assuming they can underpay, harass,...
Legal Implications of Workplace Dress Codes in New York City
Amina worked at a front desk in Midtown. The dress code was “professional,” but her manager said her long sleeves and headscarf made her look “unapproachable.” When she wore more colorful outfits that respected her faith, she was pulled aside again...
Understanding the Legal Protections Against Workplace Bullying in NYC
Jamie was good at her job. She hit her targets, stayed late when needed, and kept to herself. But over time, things changed. Her supervisor started making snide comments in meetings — not quite harassment, but always cutting. Coworkers followed...
The Impact of Criminal Records on Employment Opportunities in NYC
For many New Yorkers, a criminal record can feel like a life sentence, not just in the legal system, but in the job market. Even after serving their time and turning their lives around, applicants with past convictions...
Navigating the Complexities of Family Responsibilities While Working
You’re on a Zoom call when daycare calls — your toddler has a fever. Or you’ve just clocked in when your mother’s home aide cancels. For countless New Yorkers, balancing work and caregiving isn’t a side note — it’s part of daily life. And yet, many workplaces still expect employees to check...
The Role of Employee Handbooks in New York Employment Law
Employee handbooks are often treated like just another HR formality — something that gets skimmed on day one and forgotten by day two. However, in New York, handbooks can play a much more significant role for both employers and employees. While they’re not legally required, they often set the tone for workplace...
Navigating the Legalities of Employee Relocation and Remote Work in New York
Remote work has shifted from a temporary solution to a long-term reality in many industries. Along with it has come a new set of legal questions, especially when employees move across state lines or work from home permanently. For both...
What Employers and Employees Need to Know About New York State Sick Leave Law
Sick leave has become more than just a workplace benefit—it’s a critical protection for public health and worker well-being. In 2020, New York State passed a comprehensive sick leave law that applies to most private-sector employers and employees across the state.
Whether you're an employee trying to understand...
Navigating the Legal Landscape of Employee Drug Testing in NYC
You get a job offer—and then come the conditions. A required drug test. Maybe even random testing after you're hired. You wonder: is this even legal in New York City? And what if you legally use marijuana during your time off?
Employee drug testing is a complex—and often...