Small Business Legal Guide

Employment Handbook

Working Woman's Guide

Web Guide

Silicon Valley

Lawyers & Courts

CHAPTER 10 - HOW TO HIRE AND WORK EFFECTIVELY WITH A LAWYER

Labor laws and regulations are unduly complicated and people often need attorneys to guide them properly. The time to determine whether you need an employment lawyer is before legal action is considered. Common situations that might call for legal help include:

• Deciding to resign from a lucrative job

• Considering filing a discrimination case with the EEOC or a state agency, or filing a private lawsuit in federal or state court.

• Before commencing or threatening to file a lawsuit for breach of contract, commissions, wages, bonuses, benefits, or other monies due

• Negotiating severance and other benefits resulting from a firing

• Defending a charge of violating a restrictive covenant

• Reviewing a proposed independent contractor or employment agreement.

The best time to determine whether a lawyer is needed is before legal action is contemplated or necessary, and the best way to decide if a lawyer is needed is to speak to one. Hopefully, you won't be charged for brief information given over the telephone.

A. How to Find a Lawyer
B. The Initial Interview
C. Confirming the Arrangement
D. Problems Encountered After a Lawyer Is Hired