Atlanta Employment Attorney
If you are an employee who has suffered discrimination or harassment in the workplace, an accident victim harmed by the negligence of another, or a small business owner needing legal advice and professional assistance, you’ll find the solutions you are looking for at The Forsythe Law Firm.
Firm founder and lead attorney Christine A. Forsythe has been practicing law for over a decade, including serving as in-house counsel for corporations and representing a major auto insurer defending personal injury claims. She knows the insurance company playbook, and she understands employment law from both sides of the employment relationship. This varied and diverse legal background makes attorney Forsythe perfectly suited to craft your case from the very start with an eye toward achieving successful, exceptional results.
Licensed to practice law in both Georgia and Florida, attorney Forsythe has handled claims on a national scale, including trying numerous cases to verdict. She represents clients in both State and Federal Courts. Attorney Christine Forsythe is not a lawyer who is intimidated by the thought of going to trial; she does it, she knows how to do it. If your case cannot settle on appropriate, satisfactory terms, The Forsythe Law Firm is ready and able to litigate your claim all the way to a jury verdict or court judgment.
Attorney Forsythe is a proud alum of The University of Georgia School of Law. She is well-respected among her peers as both an Atlanta employment attorney and a personal injury lawyer. She is also well versed on providing outside counsel services to small businesses. She is involved and active in the American Bar Association and National Employment Lawyers Association and is regularly invited to speak at conferences on important legal topics to her colleagues in the legal profession. If you have legal needs in any of the following areas, you’ll benefit from the knowledge, skills and experience you’ll find at The Forsythe Law Firm.
Employment Law
Atlanta employment law is designed to protect the rights of employees and employers alike, covering a wide range of workplace issues, from discrimination and harassment to wage disputes and wrongful termination. Understanding the nuances of these laws is crucial to ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. Whether you’re an employee facing an issue or an employer seeking to navigate Georgia’s employment laws, The Forsythe Law Firm can provide expert guidance to help you understand your rights and obligations.
Atlanta employment law attorneys at The Forsythe Law Firm engage in a comprehensive employment law legal practice, including representing victims of discrimination and harassment in the workplace. Our firm’s employment discrimination practice covers all of the following areas:
- Age Discrimination
- Disability Discrimination
- EEOC Charges
- Employment Contract Negotiation
- Employment Discrimination
- Employment Dispute
- FMLA
- Harassment/Hostile Workplace
- Pregnancy Discrimination
- Retaliation
- Sex/Gender Discrimination
- Sexual Orientation Discrimination
- Sexual Harassment
- Wage & Hour Dispute
- Workplace Safety
- Wrongful Termination
In addition, we represent employees engaged in wage and hour disputes with their employers, covering issues including unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, tipped worker errors, misclassification errors, FMLA violations, and wrongful termination. We represent employees who have been retaliated against at work for complaining about discrimination or wage violations, participating in investigations, or filing workplace safety complaints with OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
Our well-rounded employment law practice further includes negotiating employment contracts, severance packages, non-solicitation agreements and non-competes, and also representing workers in employment disputes related to these areas.
Common Employment Situations in Atlanta
In Atlanta, employees and employers encounter various situations that may require legal assistance. Below are some common issues and recommended actions to take:
- Workplace Discrimination – Atlanta employees are protected from discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, and other factors. If you believe you’ve experienced discrimination, document the incidents, report them to HR, and consult an attorney for further steps.
- Sexual Harassment – Sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment and is illegal under Georgia and federal law. Victims should report incidents to their supervisors or HR and maintain records. The Forsythe Law Firm can help you understand your rights and pursue claims against harassers if necessary.
- Wage and Hour Disputes – Wage theft, unpaid overtime, and misclassification are common concerns. Employees should document their hours and pay, report any discrepancies to HR, and seek legal advice if the problem persists.
- Wrongful Termination – Georgia is an “at-will” employment state, but firing someone for illegal reasons (e.g., discrimination, retaliation) is prohibited. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, collect relevant documentation, including termination notices and performance reviews, and speak to an employment attorney to explore your options.
- Retaliation Claims – Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee who has reported discrimination, harassment, or other illegal practices. Document incidents of retaliation and seek legal guidance if you face this issue.
- Non-Compete Agreements – Many Atlanta employees face non-compete agreements that restrict future employment. Georgia has specific laws regarding enforceability, so employees should review these agreements carefully. The Forsythe Law Firm can help employees understand and potentially challenge overly restrictive agreements.
- Family and Medical Leave (FMLA) – Eligible employees are entitled to FMLA leave for specific family and medical reasons. If an employer denies rightful leave or retaliates, seek legal advice.
Atlanta employment law covers a broad spectrum of workplace issues that impact employees and employers alike. Georgia, as an at-will employment state, generally allows employers to terminate employees for any reason, as long as it does not violate federal or state laws. However, various protections exist under both federal and Georgia law to ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
Age Discrimination
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees who are 40 or older from being treated unfairly due to their age. While Georgia does not have specific state laws addressing age discrimination, federal protections apply. Employers with 20 or more employees are required to comply, ensuring that older workers are not denied promotions, unfairly terminated, or subjected to biased hiring practices.
Disability Discrimination
Employees with disabilities are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Georgia Equal Employment for Persons with Disabilities Code. Employers with at least 15 employees must provide reasonable accommodations unless it creates undue hardship. Discriminatory practices such as refusing to hire, failing to provide necessary adjustments, or wrongful termination based on a disability are illegal.
EEOC Charges
Employees facing workplace discrimination or harassment can file charges with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This federal agency investigates claims related to workplace discrimination, and employees in Georgia must typically file within 180 days of the alleged violation. Employers who receive an EEOC complaint should respond promptly to avoid potential legal consequences.
Employment Contract Negotiation
Employment contracts can outline essential terms such as salary, job responsibilities, and termination clauses. While Georgia does not require employment contracts, they can offer protection for both parties. Employees negotiating contracts should pay close attention to restrictive covenants like non-compete or non-disclosure agreements, as Georgia enforces such agreements under specific conditions.
Employment Discrimination
Discrimination in hiring, firing, promotion, or compensation based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability is illegal under federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Georgia employers with 15 or more employees must adhere to these regulations, and employees who believe they have been discriminated against may pursue legal remedies.
Employment Disputes
Conflicts between employers and employees often arise over contract violations, pay disputes, or workplace policies. Many disputes can be resolved through mediation or arbitration, but litigation remains an option for cases involving severe violations of employment law.
FMLA
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for specific medical and family-related reasons. This federal law applies to employers with 50 or more employees, ensuring workers can take time off for personal illness, caring for a family member, or welcoming a new child.
Harassment and Hostile Workplace
Workplace harassment, including verbal abuse, threats, or offensive conduct, can create a hostile work environment. Harassment based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, or disability, is illegal under Title VII. Employees experiencing such conditions may have legal claims against their employer.
Pregnancy Discrimination
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions. Employers must provide the same accommodations for pregnant employees as they do for others with temporary disabilities. This includes modifying job duties, offering unpaid leave, or providing reasonable accommodations.
Retaliation
Employees who report illegal workplace activities or participate in investigations are protected from retaliation under federal law. Employers cannot fire, demote, harass, or take any adverse action against workers for exercising their rights. Retaliation claims are among the most common employment law complaints.
Sex and Gender Discrimination
Discrimination based on sex or gender, including unequal pay, unfair treatment, or job denial, violates Title VII. Employers must ensure that all employees receive equal opportunities regardless of gender identity or expression.
Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited under Title VII. Employers must not treat LGBTQ+ employees unfairly in hiring, promotion, or workplace policies.
Sexual Harassment
Unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, and other forms of sexual harassment create a hostile work environment. Both quid pro quo harassment and hostile workplace harassment are illegal. Employers must take complaints seriously and implement measures to prevent misconduct.
Wage and Hour Disputes
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets wage and hour standards, including minimum wage and overtime rules. Georgia’s minimum wage is lower than the federal standard, so most employees are entitled to the federal minimum wage. Employers must also comply with overtime pay requirements for non-exempt employees.
Workplace Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets federal workplace safety regulations. Georgia employers must provide a safe work environment, free from known hazards. Employees have the right to report unsafe conditions without fear of retaliation.
Wrongful Termination
Because Georgia is an at-will employment state, employers can terminate employees for any lawful reason. However, firing an employee based on discrimination, retaliation, or as a violation of an employment contract may be grounds for a wrongful termination claim.
Understanding employment laws in Atlanta is crucial for both employees and employers. Ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations helps maintain fair workplace practices and protects the rights of workers.
What to Do in Employment Situations
- Document Everything: Keep records of incidents, emails, HR complaints, and communications with supervisors.
- Follow Company Policies: Always follow company procedures for reporting issues, which can help strengthen your case if legal action is necessary.
- Consult an Employment Attorney: Before taking major action, like filing a claim or lawsuit, consult with a knowledgeable employment attorney to understand your options and the strength of your case.
Atlanta Employment Law FAQs
What protections do employees in Atlanta have against discrimination in the workplace?
Employees in Atlanta are protected under federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, pregnancy, and other protected characteristics. Employers with at least 15 employees must comply with these regulations.
Can an employer in Atlanta fire an employee for no reason?
Yes, Georgia is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can terminate employees for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it does not violate federal or state laws. However, if the termination is based on discrimination, retaliation, or breaches an employment contract, it may be considered wrongful termination.
What should I do if I experience workplace harassment in Atlanta?
Employees experiencing harassment should document incidents, report them to their employer following company policy, and consider filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) if the issue is not addressed. Federal laws protect employees from harassment based on race, gender, religion, disability, and other characteristics.
Are Atlanta employers required to provide paid sick leave?
Georgia does not have a statewide law mandating paid sick leave. However, employers covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) must provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for medical and family-related reasons. Some employers voluntarily offer paid sick leave as part of their benefits package.
Can an employer in Atlanta require employees to work overtime without extra pay?
Non-exempt employees must be paid overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) when working more than 40 hours in a workweek. Overtime pay must be at least one and a half times the employee’s regular hourly rate. Employers who fail to comply with these wage and hour laws may face penalties.
How can an employee file a complaint about unsafe working conditions in Atlanta?
Employees who believe their workplace is unsafe can file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Employers are required to provide a safe work environment, and employees have the right to report hazards without fear of retaliation.
Are employment contracts enforceable in Georgia?
Employment contracts are generally enforceable in Georgia, particularly when they contain clear terms regarding wages, duties, and conditions of employment. Non-compete and confidentiality agreements are also enforceable but must meet specific legal standards to be valid under Georgia law.
What steps should an employee take if they believe they were wrongfully terminated?
Employees who suspect wrongful termination should gather evidence, review any employment contracts or company policies, and consult with an employment attorney. If the termination involved discrimination or retaliation, a complaint can be filed with the EEOC or the Georgia Department of Labor.
Can my Atlanta employer retaliate against me for reporting illegal activity?
Retaliation for reporting illegal activity, such as workplace discrimination, wage violations, or safety hazards, is illegal under federal and state laws. Employees who experience retaliation can file a complaint with the EEOC or OSHA, depending on the type of violation.
Is pregnancy discrimination illegal in Atlanta workplaces?
Yes, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act prohibits employers from discriminating against employees due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified duties or unpaid leave, to pregnant workers if similar accommodations are given to other employees with temporary disabilities.
Finding The Best Atlanta Employment Lawyer Near You
Finding the best Atlanta employment law attorney near you starts with identifying a lawyer who has experience handling workplace disputes, discrimination claims, wage violations, and wrongful termination cases. When searching for the “best Atlanta employment law attorney near me”, look for an attorney with a strong track record in employment law, positive client reviews, and a reputation for successfully advocating for workers’ rights. Many attorneys offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your situation and determine if they are the right fit for your case. Local bar associations, legal directories, and online reviews can help you compare attorneys based on experience, responsiveness, and client satisfaction. Whether you are facing workplace discrimination, retaliation, or an employment contract dispute, choosing an attorney familiar with Georgia labor laws and federal protections ensures you receive proper legal guidance and representation.
Serving Throughout Atlanta
- Buckhead
- Midtown
- Virginia-Highland
- Old Fourth Ward
- Inman Park
- West Midtown
- Grant Park
- Decatur
- East Atlanta
- Candler Park
Small Business Law
As a small business owner, you wear a lot of hats and do whatever it takes to get your business off the ground and keep it afloat. The Forsythe Law Firm complements your efforts by serving as your outside general counsel, providing advice and legal assistance as you need it. We are always a phone call or email away, ready to answer your questions, create or review legal documents, head off disputes, and ensure compliance with Georgia state and federal laws and regulations. We advise and assist new business owners with entity formation, and we represent established companies in all manner of business litigation, including breach of contract disputes, business torts, and corporate and commercial litigation. The Forsythe Law Firm is the right size to serve your small business legal needs.
Atlanta Employment Law Attorneys at The Forsythe Law Firm Can Help
The Forsythe Law Firm understands the intricacies of Atlanta employment law and is committed to protecting your rights, whether you are an employee facing unfair treatment or an employer navigating compliance challenges. Our Atlanta employment lawyers offer personalized legal strategies to address various employment issues, from discrimination and harassment to wrongful termination and wage disputes. We provide clear guidance on how to protect yourself legally and aim to resolve cases efficiently and effectively. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, The Forsythe Law Firm is here to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact The Forsythe Law Firm Today
The Forsythe Law Firm, LLC represents clients in Atlanta and surrounding areas, and attorney Christine Forsythe is licensed to practice law and experienced in both Georgia and Florida courts and has handled claims on a national scale. Contact us today to speak with our Atlanta employment law attorney, discuss your needs, and find out how we can help. Call our experienced Atlanta employment law & personal injury attorney today.
