Were you recently fired from the job after reporting a matter concerning sexual harassment? Were you denied your overtime dues? Did you suffer discrimination because of your age, sex, race, religion, or nationality? You may have a case of workplace discrimination, and it is imperative that you seek legal counsel. If you are hiring a Paramus employment attorney for the first time, here are some questions to ask.
What can you tell me about your experience?
Not all lawyers specialize in employment laws, and even those who practice in the field do not possess the same kind of experience. As a client, you should consider asking relevant questions about their work profile. Some employment lawyers take up more sexual harassment cases, while others have extensive expertise in wage disputes. You need to be sure that your lawyer is capable of handling your case.
What are your landmark cases?
An employment attorney who claims to be a master of their game should have at least a few cases that stand out. You should be able to ask for references and discuss their top cases. Ask about the challenges that they have faced and how they managed to turn things in their favor. Also, it would help if you asked the lawyer whether they have worked on cases that are similar to yours.
How would you bill me for your work?
Depending on whether there is financial compensation involved, an employment attorney may work on a contingency fee or ask for an hourly rate. Either way, it is best to have an estimate so that you are prepared to deal with the legal steps financially. There are many out-of-the-pocket expenses that you are expected to pay for, and a good lawyer will explain all of that.
What do you think of my case?
Once you have furnished the basic details, you can expect an employment attorney to offer an unbiased and transparent review of your case. While some lawyers may demand more information, they usually offer a fair overview of what a client can expect from the case. They will also advise you on the dos and don’ts that matter for the given circumstances.
Finally, ask the attorney how you can communicate with them. You should never have to chase an employment attorney for updates, and it is equally necessary that you feel comfortable talking to them, especially if it is about sensitive aspects such as sexual harassment. Call an attorney at the earliest.