Employment Law legal guide.

What does "employment at-will" actually mean — can I still sue?

At-will means your employer can fire you for any reason — except an illegal one. Think of at-will as the general rule and employment laws as the exceptions. If you were fired because of your race, gender, age, disability, for reporting safety violations, for taking FMLA leave, or for other protected reasons, you may have a claim even in an at-will state.

Does my employer have to tell me why I was fired?

It depends on your state. Some states, like Minnesota, require employers to provide the reason in writing if you request it within a certain number of days. Getting the reason in writing is smart — especially if you think the stated reason doesn't match reality. That inconsistency can be evidence of pretext.

How long do I have to file an employment claim?

Deadlines vary significantly. Federal discrimination claims through the EEOC typically must be filed within 180 or 300 days. State agency deadlines differ. Some contract claims have longer windows. Missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim, so consulting an attorney early is important.

Can I secretly record conversations with my manager?

It depends on your state's recording consent laws. In "one-party consent" states, you can legally record a conversation you're part of without telling the other person. In "two-party consent" states, all parties must agree. Even where legal, consider the optics — a jury may view constant recording as manipulative. Consult a lawyer before recording.

What is a contingency fee in employment cases?

A contingency fee means the attorney doesn't get paid unless you get paid. The fee is typically a percentage of any settlement or verdict. This model gives people access to legal representation they might not be able to afford at hourly rates. Not all employment cases qualify for contingency — discuss fee options upfront with your attorney.

How much work will I have to do if I file a claim?

Filing an employment claim is not like filing an insurance claim. You'll be an active participant — answering detailed questions from the other side, preparing for depositions, reviewing documents, and possibly testifying. Your attorney handles the legal strategy, but you'll need to invest real time and energy.

Will filing a lawsuit show up when employers search my name?

Court filings are public records, and the gap between courthouses and the internet is shrinking. However, many employment disputes resolve before a lawsuit is ever filed publicly, and employers often have their own reasons for wanting to stay out of court. This is something to discuss with your attorney early in the process.

Should I hire a lawyer to review my severance agreement?

Not every severance agreement needs a lawyer, but most do. You're typically signing away your right to sue in exchange for compensation. An attorney can evaluate whether the offer is fair, identify claims you might not realize you have, and negotiate better terms — sometimes significantly better. Many attorneys review severance agreements for a flat fee.