Small Business Legal Guide

Employment Handbook

Working Woman's Guide

Web Guide

Silicon Valley

Lawyers & Courts

Tens of thousands of employment-related lawsuits are filed in state and federal courts annually. Common lawsuits are for discrimination complaints and breach of contract actions to collect wages, commissions, and benefits. Lawsuits are brought in either a state or a federal court, depending on the facts. This chapter will provide you with an explanation of the various legal forums you may be exposed to when asserting your rights. Strategies will be provided to help win a case in court, after an appeal, through arbitration, and through small-claims court, and how to settle a matter out of court through mediation.

A. Litigation Procedures and the Courts
B. Starting an Action
C. Evidence
D. Appeals
E. Mediation Procedures
F. Arbitration Procedures
G. Bringing Suit in Small-Claims Court
H. Workers' Compensation
I. Summary of Steps to Maximize a Discrimination Claim
J. List of Mediation and Dispute Resolution Organizations
K. Significant Women's Organizations
L. Important Federal and State Agencies to Contact