The Basics of Employment Law

In our adult lives, the world of work can be fundamental to our security. The role of an employment lawyer is to help assist you to understand your rights at work and how best to protect them. The role we play is totally up to you, but most of our clients prefer us to give them strategic advice and make sure that they are protected.

What kind of lawyer handles employment issues?

We have an experienced team of employment and industrial lawyers, and labor and employment attorneys, to deal with issues of employment and employment disputes.

What are examples of employment issues?

The world of employment is complex. Disputes in the workplace can arise on subjects such as termination of employment or unfair dismissal, workplace bullying and harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, contract disputes, bonus and long term incentive disputes, and performance management disputes. Sometimes there is no dispute and you might want to simply understand your employment rights and obligations, so you can protect yourself and negotiate a better deal.

What is required to bring an employment law case to court?

Bringing a case to court or a tribunal requires careful consideration. Working with our clients, we are often able to avoid litigation and resolve matters cooperatively. However, where it is needed, court remains an option and Gordon Legal employment lawyers are skilled litigators who know how to take steps to protect your rights in court.

What does a labor and employment attorney do?

A labor and employment attorney represents both employers and employees. The role of an employment lawyer can be broad – it is reflective of the complex world of work. Sometimes you might need advice about a new contract; other times, you might be in dispute about conditions your employer is proposing, the bonuses that they might be proposing to pay (or not to pay) or performance-related issues, including termination of employment.

How can I get an employment lawyer?

The first step is to get in contact with Gordon Legal and make an appointment for an initial consultation. In this initial consultation, we will have a discussion with you about what your rights and options might be, and outline some practical tips on how you might be able to deal with the issues you are facing. If you need to go to court or if there are time frames to take steps to protect yourself, we will make sure to let you know. Ahead of the conference, you might like to prepare a short summary of the issues you need advice on or send us your contract. It is not necessary nor desirable to send us paperwork ahead of time. Our employment lawyers are skilled at getting to the heart of employment law issues quickly – if they need something, they will ask for it at the conference.

How do employment lawyers get paid?

In an initial appointment with one of our employment lawyers, we will review your documents, discuss your matter and provide you with advice on your options. An initial appointment is at a fee of $660 (including GST). In some circumstances we can assist on a no win, no fee basis. Call us on 1800 21 22 23 to see how we can help you today.

How do I sue for unfair treatment at work?

If you are concerned about things that might be happening at work, our employment lawyers recommend that you keep a private diary recording events as they happen. This can be important if ever you need to call on evidence about comments made. Your employer does not need to know you are doing this and generally you should keep it private, but it is important to ensure that there are notes taken at the time of relevant interactions.

When should I hire an employment lawyer?

Employment lawyers can help if you need advice on how to protect your rights about matters at work, such as reviewing new employment contracts. You can also hire an employment lawyer for advice on entitlements, super and pay disputes, or if you need help in regards to bullying or discrimination in the workplace. Employment lawyers can help in regards to termination, and helping you understand your rights and how you can contest unfair treatment.

What to do if this information applies to you

At Gordon Legal, we understand that employment law is a personal issue.

For personalised and individual advice, we offer consultations to discuss your matter.

Please call Gordon Legal on 1800 21 22 23 or our Geelong office on 1800 21 22 23 to speak with a member of our team.

Given the current environment, we are providing consultations over the phone or via video conferencing platforms.