You work to support yourself and your family, and never had any reason to need the services of a lawyer. For most people, this is what’s happening and good for them. But what if suddenly the unimaginable happens, and you find yourself in need of an employment lawyer Melbourne for some serious legal concerns you had at work?
Some employers might scare you and make you feel helpless when you try to take a stand against them. Also, the fact that labour law is a bit complicated doesn’t help. Worry no more, because there are employment lawyers Melbourne like us who can help you protect your rights and provide competent legal advice and representation if necessary. Here are a few of the most typical reasons why you should consult with one:
Unjust Termination
As an employment law firm, unjust termination or dismissal is one of the most common inquiries we get. If you believe you were fired for unjust reasons, your rights may have been violated by your employer, and you may be entitled by law to receive compensation from your employer.
Here in Australia, we have a law that governs labour and employment called the ‘Fair Work Act’ that both employers and employees must follow. There may be situations when your employer has violated, either intentionally or unintentionally, a part or parts of this law. If this has happened to you, we can assist you in seeking remedy.
It’s tough losing your job, especially if it’s your only source of income. It might take you some time to find a new job, and at the same time, you still have bills to pay and a family to feed. But if you feel you were dismissed unfairly, you may be entitled to receive compensation from your employer, which can possibly help you get through.
Discrimination & Harassment
When you face a bad situation at work for which you feel innocent, but somehow you’re taking the heat, you may be a subject of discrimination. Discrimination and harassment can take many forms, especially in the workplace. If you believe your employer or co-worker has discriminated against you because of your race, gender, age, or personal views, you should definitely seek legal advice from an employment lawyer Melbourne. In the same way, sexual harassment has no place in today’s workplace, but it still happens. So make sure you take a stand before your situation gets worse.
It may feel as if there is no one to turn to if you find yourself at the wrong end of a workplace discrimination or harassment. But employment lawyers like us help you in preserving your dignity and seeking justice for the unwelcome treatment you’re getting at work.
Severance Pay Arrangements
Most business cycles have ups and downs, and when times are tough, employers are shedding their workforce to help the company stay afloat. This is fair and happens all the time. But if your employer is making it difficult for you to claim your severance pay, or you believe you’re not getting what you’re due, you can’t go against them alone. Consult an employment lawyer Melbourne immediately to assist you in negotiating a better outcome, minimising the effect on your employability in the future, and securing any compensation that your employer may have owed you.
And if you are nearing retirement age and considering leaving your current job before reaching the mark for whatever reason – like getting a head start on a new chapter of your life, perhaps – understand that you could be forsaking retirement benefits. Many already know this as a consequence, yet many Australians still do it anyway. The good thing is, if this was your plan all along, you can negotiate a reasonable deal for your exit.
Workplace Accidents & Injuries
If your employer hasn’t already made enough reminders, always keep in mind that occupational safety is very important and should not be taken lightly. Unfortunately, despite all preventive efforts, workplace accidents and injuries still do happen quite frequently, especially in Australia. If by some terrible luck or someone’s negligence you encountered an accident at work and suffered injuries from it, you should know that your employer is not only liable for all medical expenses if necessary, you may also get some compensation you deserve by law.
Upon suffering a workplace injury, consult an employment lawyer to assist you in obtaining what is fair and reasonable compensation for having been injured at work.
Job Offer Scrutiny
People are normally too excited to review an employment contract that they had just received. They would just skim through the pages and sign on the dotted line, thinking that there’s no way their employer would deceive or entrap them. Employment contracts can be quite long, which is why sometimes there are unfavourable or even illegal ones that might get overlooked.
It is our job and commitment as employment lawyers Melbourne to assist you in scrutinising and evaluating your employment contract, as well as negotiating reasonable conditions so that you can sign your new contract without worries. With our help, you can rest assured that your best interest is looked after, while you go through the transition of starting your new job.
Employment Lawyers in Melbourne
If you believe your rights have been infringed in your current or recently lost job, don’t stay quiet or do nothing. Come see us at our office in Melbourne to get the help you deserve. Our team of labour expert lawyers can assist you in whatever concerns or doubts you have regarding your contract or your workplace.