Gaithersburg Labor and Employment Attorney Asserts Your Rights

Maryland lawyer represents businesses and workers in a wide range of disputes

Individual businesses and the overall economy depend on a smooth working relationship between employers and employees. But because the parties' interests are often opposed, tensions in the workplace are inevitable. When conflicts arise, each side is entitled to have its rights protected capably and vigorously. The Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC in Gaithersburg represents employers and employees in a wide range of labor and employment matters. On behalf of clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C, I seek timely, cost-effective resolutions that serve my clients' interests and provide lasting relief.

Firm provides strong advocacy during labor and employment law disputes 

As I represent both workers and businesses in employment matters, I understand each side's objectives, which allows me to find creative solutions to seemingly intractable problems. While defending my clients' rights, I pursue fair resolutions that often lead to better relations that so that future problems can be averted. Common issues I deal with in my practice include:

• Discrimination complaints — State and federal laws protect workers from discrimination in hiring, promotion, workplace discipline and termination based on various factors, such as their race, color, ethnicity, gender, sex, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, and age (if 40 years and older). Sexual harassment is considered a form of sex discrimination. Employers who are found to have discriminated unlawfully may be liable for civil damages.
• Wrongful termination — Even with at-will employment, an employee's firing cannot be motivated by discrimination against a protected group or retaliation against an employer who acted as a whistleblower or asserted their legal rights. Companies that initiate a wrongful termination are liable for civil damages and may have to rehire the fired worker.
• Wage and hour law violations— Most employees are entitled to a minimum wage and overtime if they exceed more than eight hours in a day or 40 hours in a week. However, some employers try to get around the law by misclassifying workers as either salaried employees or independent contractors, so they are exempt from overtime. Some businesses are accused of other tactics designed to thwart overtime rules, such as requiring work tasks to be performed before and after clocking out. Employers who are found to have violated wage and hour laws could be liable for civil damages in addition to back pay.
• Employment contracts — I represent executives and employers in contract negotiations. When disputes arise or a breach is alleged, I work to resolve the conflict, while protecting my clients' rights under the pertinent agreement. With important issues, such as bonuses, commissions, stock options, benefits and severance rights at stake, it's important to retain a knowledgeable and determined advocate regardless of whether you are a business or an individual worker.
• Severance disputes — When it's time for an employee and employer to part ways, a severance agreement might be appropriate. Many executives have severance compensation packages in their employment contracts, but long-term, at-will employees may also seek payments, perhaps in exchange for the right to file a wrongful termination lawsuit. Whether working for the company or the employee, I seek a reasonable solution that treats my client fairly.

Labor and employment conflicts often have larger implications for the company culture and the workforce as a whole. When dealing with these matters, you should retain a lawyer who understands the big picture and can formulate comprehensive, lasting solutions.

Contact a determined Maryland attorney for labor and employment law representation

The Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC in Gaithersburg represents businesses and workers in labor and employment matters. Call 301-760-7460 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation. My firm serves clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C.