|
Every day, we advocate for employees and small employers. Our experience representing both sides gives us a well-rounded understanding of various situations and the issues that may arise. We get results inside and outside of the courtroom, and work to secure fair treatment in the workplace.
Employment issues are oftentimes more emotional than divorces, as your livelihood is being threatened. We take the worry out of this process by working closely with you every step of the way – whether it be protecting your jobs, developing an exit strategy, or simply negotiating a separation agreement.
State and federal laws protect workers from improper treatment by their employers. When an employer breaks these laws, an employee can hire an attorney to resolve the problem.
Not all unethical or unfair behavior by a manager or a company is illegal. However, if you have an employment case that requires the assistance of a lawyer, our firm can provide you with guidance.
Do you need legal advice regarding a difficult employment matter? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced employment lawyer.
|
Non-Compete Contracts
Too often employees are required to sign away their right to compete through restrictive contracts and policies that limit their ability to earn a living. Many times employees are not even aware of the restrictions they are under.
Come see us:
- BEFORE you sign a non-compete contract to ensure you understand the implications.
- if you are considering leaving to determine whether your new job will violate a valid non-compete.
- after you've left if you receive a cease and desist letter.
Severance or Separation Agreements
Many people come to Attorney Michelle Achterberg Welch for just a one hour consult simply to ask what their severance agreement means. If you have been presented with a severance/separation agreement and have no idea what rights you have, what rights you are about to give up, or what potential remedies you have, schedule a time to meet with Michelle. She will make sure you know what the agreement means and negotiate it further if necessary.
Discrimination
You have the right to be employed in a workplace free of unlawful discrimination. Your employer cannot use race, gender, age, national origin, disability, or religion as a factor when making important employment decisions like hiring, firing, compensation, promotions, demotions, transfers, or layoffs. We can help you make it stop, negotiate an exit, reach a confidential settlement, or take legal action through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Wisconsin Equal Rights Department (ERD).
Unemployment Benefits
Were you denied benefits to which you are entitled? If your unemployment benefits were denied by the state and you would like to appeal, the first appeal is a hearing. Attorney Michelle Achterberg Welch will present your case without letting emotion get in the way. The biggest issue at these hearings is always credibility, so she spends a lot of time getting you ready for this so you can be at your best and go into it with less anxiety.
Wrongful Termination
The phrase "wrongful termination" is often misunderstood. Employers are allowed to make bad, unfair, and illogical decisions. Even if you are fired for something you didn't do, the termination is not necessarily wrongful under the law. What makes an action wrongful is the motivation behind it. Some reasons are perfectly legal (ex: preference for personality differences, financial concerns). Other reasons are not legal (ex: race, national origin, color, age, gender, disability, or religion, complaints about unlawful acts, etc). We can help you understand your rights, negotiate a severance, or take legal action.
Police Officer & FIREFIGHTER Termination
Are you facing the Police and Fire Commission as a result of being recommended for termination? Attorney Michelle Achterberg Welch has successfully assisted police officers throughout northwestern Wisconsin with keeping their jobs and has negotiated equitable separations from the department. Whether you are facing a public hearing or simply want additional assistance in negotiating benefits, Michelle can offer a creative approach and collaborate with the representation you receive through the WPPA.
|
