What to Do When You’re Misclassified as an Independent Contractor in New York
Independent contracting offers flexibility, but being misclassified as an independent contractor when you should be an employee can cost you essential protections. Many New York workers are labeled as independent contractors when they should be classified as employees. This misclassification allows employers to avoid paying minimum wage, overtime, unemployment benefits, and...
Understanding Employment Arbitration Clauses
When you start a new job, signing paperwork is routine—but buried in that stack of documents may be an employment arbitration clause. This clause can significantly impact your rights, yet many employees don’t realize what they agree to until a workplace dispute arises. Instead of going to court, you may be...
How Recent Changes to Federal Employment Laws Could Affect NYC Employees
Federal employment laws influence workplace rights across the country. Recent shifts in federal policies—including changes to diversity initiatives, remote work policies, job classifications, and overtime pay—could impact public and private employees.
While NYC has some of the strongest worker protections in the country, federal policies can sometimes override local...
Can You Get FMLA for Freezing Your Eggs?
Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, has become an increasingly popular option for individuals who want to preserve their fertility for future family planning. However, whether the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) covers time off for egg freezing remains unclear.
While the FMLA provides job-protected leave for serious...
The Role of Employment Lawyers in Unionization Efforts
Unionization efforts can be complex and contentious, involving intricate legal considerations for employees seeking to organize and employers responding to union activity. Employment lawyers are crucial in navigating these processes, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and protecting the rights of all parties involved. Whether you’re an employee advocating for better working...
How to Protect Your Career When Reporting Misconduct
Speaking up about workplace misconduct is brave and often necessary, but can also feel risky. Many employees fear retaliation, damaged reputations, or job loss when reporting unethical or illegal behavior. However, whistleblower protections exist to safeguard your career. Understanding your rights and taking strategic steps can help you report misconduct while...
What Are Fringe Benefits vs. Benefits?
Understanding the difference between fringe and standard benefits is essential when evaluating a job offer or negotiating employment terms. While both benefits enhance employee compensation beyond base salary, they serve different purposes and have distinct legal and tax implications.
What Are Standard Benefits?Standard...
Navigating Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in Employment Settings
Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are common in employment contracts, particularly in industries where confidential information is a key asset. These agreements are designed to protect proprietary business information, trade secrets, and sensitive employee or client data. However, NDAs can also raise concerns about enforceability, employee rights, and compliance with evolving laws in...
How to Document Discrimination in the Workplace: A Practical Guide
Workplace discrimination can be subtle or overt, but documenting incidents is essential for protecting your rights regardless of how it manifests. Whether you are experiencing discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, or another protected category, a well-documented record can strengthen your case if you decide to report the issue or...
Overcoming Challenges of Maintaining a DEI Program in the Workplace
Due to new executive orders and corporate actions that have eliminated DEI programs, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) has become a hot-button issue. While many organizations remain committed to creating more inclusive, diverse workplaces, shifting political and legal winds are forcing companies to rethink their approach to DEI initiatives.