Araz & Associates
Menu
A Successful Strategy
Employment Contracts
Drafting and Reviewing Employment Contracts
We assist employers in drafting employment contracts to ensure they are legally sound and protective of the company's interests. This may include defining terms of employment, job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and termination conditions
Non-Compete and Confidentiality Agreements
We help employers draft and enforce non-compete and confidentiality agreements to protect proprietary information and prevent employees from engaging in competitive activities after leaving the company.
Termination and Severance Agreements
We negotiate with employers to ensure that the employees receive the most favorable severance packages at the time of their separation.
Dispute Resolution
We assist employees who believe they were terminated unjustly or in violation of employment contracts.
Employee Handbook
We assist employers in creating comprehensive and legally sound employee manuals and policies. We ensure that their employee handbooks cover essential topics such as employment practices, workplace behavior, anti-discrimination policies, code of conduct, and other relevant areas.
Documentation of Policies
We assist in documenting policies clearly and unambiguously. This documentation is essential for ensuring that employees are aware of the rules and expectations, and it can be valuable in legal proceedings if disputes arise.
Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Policies
We help employers develop and enforce policies related to confidentiality and non-disclosure to protect sensitive company information and trade secrets. We also ensure that such policies comply with applicable laws.
Social Media and Technology Policies
With the rise of technology, we help employers create policies that address the use of social media and technology in the workplace. These policies may cover issues such as internet usage, social media guidelines, and electronic communication.
Termination and Disciplinary Policies
We help employers establish fair and legally compliant termination and disciplinary policies. They ensure that these policies adhere to employment laws and provide a clear process for addressing performance issues.
Customization to Industry and Company Needs
We tailor employee manuals and policies to the specific needs and industry of the employer. This customization ensures that the policies are relevant, effective, and aligned with the company's culture and industry.
Legal Compliance
We help employers ensure that their employee manuals and policies comply with local, state, and federal employment laws. This includes regulations related to anti-discrimination, wage and hour, family and medical leave, workplace safety, and other legal requirements.
Review and Revision of Existing Employee Handbooks and Workplace Policies
Periodically, we review and update employee manuals and policies to reflect changes in employment laws or company practices. This helps employers stay in compliance and provides clear guidelines for employees
Training and Implementation
We assist in the implementation of new policies by providing training sessions for employees and management. This ensures that everyone is aware of the policies and understands their implications.
Defense Against Employee Claims
Consultation on Employee Actions
We advise employers on appropriate actions to take in response to employee behavior that may be perceived as discriminatory or harassing. This guidance helps employers address issues promptly and appropriately.
Risk Assessment
We assess the overall risk and exposure of an employer to discrimination and harassment claims, providing strategic advice on risk mitigation and prevention strategies.
Conducting Investigations
In the event of a discrimination or harassment complaint, we guide employers through the investigation process. This includes conducting thorough and impartial investigations, documenting findings, and taking appropriate corrective actions.
Response to Agency Charges
If an employee files a discrimination or harassment complaint with a government agency (such as the EEOC, New York Commission on Human Rights or NY State Division of Human Rights), we represent employers in responding to the charges. This includes gathering evidence, drafting responses, and negotiating with the agency.
Litigation Defense
Should a discrimination or harassment claim escalate to litigation, we gather evidence, interview witnesses, and present legal arguments to protect the employer's interests in court.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
We can explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to resolve discrimination and harassment claims before they escalate to formal litigation, which can be a cost-effective and timely approach to resolving disputes.
Negotiation of Settlements
If a discrimination or harassment claim is filed, we help employers engage in settlement negotiations to resolve the matter without going through lengthy and costly litigation.
Employee Training Programs
Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
As per New York state law, employers are required to provide annual sexual harassment prevention training to all employees. Employment lawyers can develop and conduct interactive training sessions that cover the legal definitions of sexual harassment, reporting procedures, and ways to prevent and address inappropriate behavior in the workplace.
Diversity and Inclusion Training
Training programs on diversity and inclusion can help organizations create a respectful and inclusive work environment. Employment lawyers can cover topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competence, and strategies for promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
Anti-Discrimination Training
We conduct training sessions on anti-discrimination laws and regulations to educate employees and managers about their rights and responsibilities. This includes understanding protected classes, recognizing discriminatory practices, and promoting fair and equal treatment.
Training For Managers
Managers play a crucial role in creating a positive work environment, ensuring legal compliance, and handling employment-related issues effectively. Employment lawyers can provide various training programs to equip managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of employment law and human resources management. Here are some key training areas for managers-
Anti-Discrimination and Harassment Training
- Understand and recognize behaviors that constitute discrimination and harassment.
- Learn about the legal definitions and implications of discrimination and harassment.
- Implement strategies for preventing and addressing discriminatory and harassing behavior in the workplace.
- Gain familiarity with the organization’s policies and procedures related to discrimination and harassment.
Wage and Hour Compliance
- Comprehend federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
- Understand overtime rules, minimum wage requirements, and record-keeping obligations.
- Learn to accurately classify employees as exempt or non-exempt.
FMLA and Leave Management
- Understand the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and other applicable leave laws.
- Know how to handle employee requests for leave and ensure compliance with leave entitlements.
- Effectively communicate with employees about their rights and responsibilities related to leave.
Employee Discipline and Termination
- Understand the legal considerations when disciplining or terminating employees.
- Learn proper documentation techniques for disciplinary actions.
- Recognize potential legal risks associated with employee discipline and termination.
Performance Management
- Develop effective performance management strategies.
- Understand the importance of providing regular feedback and conducting performance evaluations.
- Learn to set performance expectations and goals.
Recruitment and Hiring Practices
- Understand legal considerations in the recruitment and hiring process.
- Learn to conduct lawful interviews and make fair hiring decisions.
- Comprehend the importance of diversity and inclusion in hiring practices.
Have Questions or Need Expert Advice?
Contact List
Links List
Araz & Associates
Your Trusted Employment Law Advocates.