Labor laws were created in response to the grim working conditions prevalent in the early 1900s. These conditions included the widespread use of child labor, common discrimination, hazardous workplaces, and limited protection for workers seeking better conditions. The convergence of social and legal shifts over the years paved the way for improving the lives of American workers.
While it’s natural to want to trust our employers and assume they have our best interests at heart, the unfortunate reality is that not all employers prioritize the well-being of their employees, even though there are laws in place to protect them. In some instances, despite employees giving them the benefit of the doubt, certain employers may act unscrupulously and take advantage of their workforce through illegal means. This can manifest in various forms, such as wage theft, unsafe working conditions, discrimination, or other unfair labor practices.
It is essential for employees to be aware of their rights and to seek protection under employment laws and regulations to ensure that their well-being and rights are safeguarded, even in cases where their trust in their employers is misplaced. At The Lovely Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees near Myrtle Beach, Goose Creek, and throughout South Carolina, ensuring that they can enjoy the legal safeguards and improved working conditions that have evolved over time.
How Much Does An Employment Lawyer Cost in SC
At The Lovely Law Firm, the cost of hiring an employment attorney varies depending on the specifics of each individual case. We understand that financial concerns can be a significant burden when pursuing legal action against an employer, which is why depending on the circumstances of your case we will operate on a contingency fee basis for employment-based lawsuits.
There are times when a case makes more sense to be handled with a flat fee model. We will be clear and upfront with you about which type of case your employment issue falls under whether that be flat fee or contingency fee.
A contingency fee basis means that our clients do not pay any upfront fees or hourly charges for legal services. Instead, our attorney’s fees are contingent on the outcome of your case. In other words, we only get paid if we successfully win your case or secure a settlement on your behalf. There may be some out of pocket, third party costs associated with different types of legal actions. These will be discussed in more detail with clients if they may apply to their matter. If we do take on your employment case on a contingency basis and we are unsuccessful, you do not owe us any legal fees. This approach allows individuals who might not have the financial means to access quality legal representation to pursue their employment law claims with confidence. After all, finances should not get in the way of protecting your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Choosing a law firm, like The Lovely Law Firm, that often works on a contingency fee basis aligns the interests of the attorney and the client. It motivates us to work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, as our fee is directly tied to your success. It also provides peace of mind for our clients, knowing that they can seek justice without the worry of exorbitant legal bills. At The Lovely Law Firm, we are committed to making employment law services accessible and affordable for everyone, ensuring that you have the representation you need to protect your rights in the workplace.
Types of Cases Employment Lawyers Handle in SC
At The Lovely Law Firm, our employment attorneys are equipped to handle a diverse array of employment cases. From issues of discrimination and wrongful termination to complex contract disputes and harassment claims, our dedicated team is well-versed in addressing a wide range of concerns that may arise in the workplace. We are here to advocate for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of employment law with expertise and dedication.
Some areas include:
- Discrimination
- Sexual Harassment in the workplace
- Wrongful Termination
- Wage and Hour Disputes
- Retaliation
- Workplace Safety
- Family and Medical Leave Act Violations (FMLA South Carolina)
- Employment Contract Disputes
- Whistleblower Claims
- ADA violation Rights
- Harassment and Hostile Work Environment
- Title 9 Law
- and more…
Wrongful Termination Cases
A wrongful termination lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been unjustly or illegally fired from their jobs. Wrongful termination can occur for various reasons, and it often involves violations of employment laws and regulations. Here are some examples of reasons a person might be wrongfully terminated:
- Discrimination – When an employee is fired due to their race, gender, age, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics, it can be considered wrongful termination.
- Whistleblowing – If an employee is fired for revealing illegal or unethical behavior within the company, it could be wrongful termination.
- Breach of Contract – When an employment contract is violated, such as termination without following contractual terms or notice, it can lead to wrongful termination claims.
- Family or Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Violations – Firing an employee for taking legally protected medical or family leave can constitute wrongful termination.
- Violation of Public Policy – Terminating an employee for refusing to engage in illegal activities or for exercising their legal rights, like voting, can be considered wrongful termination.
At The Lovely Law Firm, our dedicated team is committed to assisting those who have experienced wrongful termination in South Carolina. Our wrongful termination lawyers work tirelessly to assess the circumstances surrounding your dismissal, ensuring that your rights are protected and justice is served. We provide expert legal guidance, conducting thorough investigations, gathering evidence, and employing a deep understanding of employment law to build a strong case on your behalf. Our ultimate goal is to secure the compensation and remedies you deserve if you have been wrongfully terminated, holding employers accountable for their unlawful actions and helping you get your professional life back on track.
Age Discrimination Cases
An age discrimination lawyer specializes in advocating for individuals who have experienced unfair treatment in the workplace based on their age. Age discrimination occurs when an applicant or employee is subjected to less favorable treatment due to their age, typically targeting those who are 40 years old or older.
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) is a federal law that specifically prohibits age discrimination against this age group. It is important to note that the ADEA does not protect individuals under the age of 40.
However, the law does not make it illegal for an employer to favor an older worker over a younger one, as long as both individuals are 40 or older. At The Lovely Law Firm, we are dedicated to assisting those who have experienced ageism in the workplace, ensuring they receive the legal representation and support necessary to address age discrimination issues and seek justice.
What Are The Rights Of Employees In South Carolina?
In South Carolina, employees are granted a unique set of rights that champion their welfare and promote workplace equity, including protection from workplace discrimination. These fundamental rights encompass the following:
- Right to Fair Compensation – South Carolina aligns with federal minimum wage standards dictated by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). As of August 2022, the absence of a state-specific minimum wage law means that the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour prevails.
- Right to Overtime Compensation – The FLSA defines overtime as any labor exceeding 40 hours per workweek, entitling employees to 1.5 times their regular pay for such additional effort.
- Right to Breaks (if provided) – While South Carolina doesn’t mandate specific meal or rest breaks, employers offering such breaks must comply with specific guidelines. Paid breaks of 20 minutes or less, along with unpaid meal periods, should be provided as per these stipulations.
- Right to Leave and Time Off – South Carolina’s labor laws allow for a comprehensive spectrum of leave entitlements, including:
- Family and medical leave
- Jury duty leave
- Witness leave
- Military leave
- Bone marrow donation leave
- Emergency response leave (applicable to State employees)
- Sick leave (for State employees)
- Administrative leave (for State employees)
- Bereavement leave (for State employees)
- Vacation and holiday leave (for State employees)
- Voting time leave (for State employees).
- Right to Non-Discrimination – The Human Affairs Law in South Carolina safeguards the hiring process against discrimination based on factors such as race, religion, national origin, gender, age, and disability. Employers are unequivocally prohibited from exhibiting biased hiring or firing practices or differential treatment based on these attributes.
- Right to a Safe Workplace – The realm of workplace safety and health is meticulously overseen by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA conducts thorough inspections to ensure compliance with safety protocols. Moreover, any workplace injuries or fatalities must be reported to the South Carolina branch of OSHA to reinforce a secure working environment.
These distinctive rights play a pivotal role in preserving the well-being and liberties of employees across South Carolina, upholding the principles of fairness and security within the state’s labor landscape. In the unfortunate event of experiencing discrimination or other workplace issues, individuals can seek assistance from legal professionals specializing in employment law. A South Carolina workplace discrimination lawyer can provide guidance and support in navigating legal challenges related to discrimination, while a minimum wage attorney can offer insights into wage-related disputes. By leveraging the expertise of these professionals, employees can ensure their rights are protected and upheld in the workplace.
How Do I Know If I Need An Employment Lawyer?
If you find yourself grappling with a challenging employment issue, it’s crucial to recognize when you may need the expertise of an employment lawyer in South Carolina. The complexities of employment law can be emotionally draining to navigate alone. Whether you’ve experienced wrongful termination at the hands of your employer, endured harassment from a co-worker, or have been unfairly denied benefits or wages, seeking counsel from an experienced employment lawyer near you is your best course of action. The Lovely Law Firm is always here to assist, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected in a wide range of employment situations, including those involving executives, professionals, contract workers, as well as federal, state, and municipal employees. Our team of dedicated professionals can help you review your legal options and guide you through the intricacies of employment law, empowering you to make informed decisions and obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact the Lovely Law Firm at 843-281-7205 for a free case evaluation to explore how we can help you.
Our Employment Law Office in Goose Creek, SC
Our employment lawyers in South Carolina are available 24/7 to take your call, or visit us at our Goose Creek offices right on Old Mt. Holly Rd. We have attorneys working out of this office ready to help you with a free evalution, including Attorney Samantha Albrecht.
597 Old Mt Holly Rd Suite 301, Goose Creek, SC 29445
Contact us now at (843) 839-4111
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (Monday – Sunday)
What Our Clients Have to Say about The Lovely Law Firm on Google
We had the best experience with Amy Lovely. She worked quickly and with clear communication throughout our process. We are so thankful for her and if we ever need an attorney in the future, she’ll be the first we go to! Thanks Amy!!
Jennifer Dickey
November, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We’re proud of our team’s hard work, resulting in a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google.
