Orlando Employment Lawyer
Employment Law Protections in Orlando
Orlando is home to a diverse workforce across industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and technology. With so many employees working under different conditions, employment law protections ensure fair treatment, prevent workplace discrimination, and hold employers accountable for wage violations and wrongful termination. When workplace issues arise, a Orlando employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal options. Scott Law Team provides skilled legal representation for employees and businesses facing employment disputes, helping to secure justice and financial compensation when necessary.
Workplace Discrimination and Harassment
Federal and Florida laws protect employees from discrimination and harassment based on race, gender, age, disability, national origin, pregnancy, and religion. Discrimination can occur in hiring, promotions, pay, and job assignments. Employers are also required to maintain a workplace free from harassment, including sexual harassment, which can involve inappropriate comments, unwanted advances, or retaliation for reporting misconduct.
If you experience discrimination or harassment at work, you may file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR). The complaint must be filed within 180–300 days of the incident. Scott Law Team assists employees in gathering evidence, filing complaints, and seeking legal action if necessary.
Employee Rights and Florida Labor Laws
Workers in Orlando are protected by labor laws that provide:
- A minimum wage of $12.00 per hour as of 2024, increasing annually through 2026.
- Overtime pay for non-exempt employees working over 40 hours per week.
- Safe workplace conditions under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA).
- Job protection for medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for eligible employees.
If an employer fails to comply with these labor laws, employees may be entitled to back pay, damages, and reinstatement. Scott Law Team helps employees file claims for labor violations and ensures their rights are enforced.
Wage and Overtime Disputes
Wage disputes are among the most common employment law violations in Orlando. Some employees are misclassified as independent contractors to avoid providing benefits or overtime pay, while others may experience illegal paycheck deductions or unpaid wages.
If you suspect a wage violation, take these steps:
- Review pay records to check for errors in wages or overtime pay.
- Request payroll records from your employer if you believe hours were underreported.
- Speak with an employment lawyer to determine if a legal claim is necessary.
Employees have two years to file a claim for unpaid wages, or three years for willful violations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Scott Law Team aggressively represents employees in wage disputes to recover lost earnings.
Retaliation and Whistleblower Protections
Employees have the right to report workplace violations without fear of retaliation. Retaliation can include demotion, termination, pay cuts, or a hostile work environment in response to a complaint. Florida’s Whistleblower Act and federal laws protect workers who expose illegal business practices, fraud, or workplace safety violations.
If you have been punished for reporting discrimination, wage violations, or illegal activity, legal remedies may be available, including reinstatement, lost wages, and damages. Scott Law Team provides legal support for employees facing workplace retaliation, ensuring their rights are protected.
Wrongful Termination in Florida
While Florida follows an at-will employment policy, meaning employers can fire employees at any time, there are exceptions. Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for:
- Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, age, or religion.
- Retaliation for reporting workplace violations or refusing to participate in illegal activity.
- Violation of an employment contract that outlines termination policies.
Employees who believe they were wrongfully terminated should document any relevant evidence, including emails, termination notices, and past performance reviews. Filing a complaint with the EEOC or FCHR may be necessary before pursuing legal action. Scott Law Team fights for employees who have been unjustly terminated, seeking compensation for lost wages and damages.
Non-Compete Agreements and Employment Contracts
Non-compete agreements restrict an employee from working with competitors after leaving a company. Florida courts will enforce non-compete agreements only if they are:
- Limited in time and geographic scope (typically two years or less).
- Necessary to protect a legitimate business interest, such as trade secrets or customer relationships.
- Not overly restrictive, preventing an employee from working in their field entirely.
Employment contracts should be carefully reviewed before signing. Employees should be aware of terms related to job duties, compensation, and termination policies. Scott Law Team provides contract review and negotiation services to ensure fair employment agreements.
EEOC Complaints and Workplace Investigations
Employees who face discrimination, harassment, or retaliation can file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC process involves:
- Submitting a complaint within 180–300 days of the discriminatory act.
- An investigation by the EEOC, which may include interviews and document reviews.
- Mediation or a lawsuit, depending on the findings.
Scott Law Team assists employees in filing EEOC claims and pursuing further legal action when needed.
Payroll Audits and Employer Compliance
Businesses in Orlando must comply with wage and hour laws, tax reporting, and employee classification regulations. Payroll audits can help companies avoid costly legal disputes by ensuring:
- Employees are classified correctly as exempt or non-exempt.
- Overtime wages are calculated accurately.
- Wage and hour laws are fully complied with.
Scott Law Team offers payroll compliance guidance to employers to prevent disputes and protect workers from wage theft.
Employment Lawyers Serving Throughout Orlando
- Downtown Orlando
- Baldwin Park
- College Park
- Lake Nona
- Thornton Park
- Dr. Phillips
- MetroWest
- Winter Park
- Kissimmee
- Windermere
- Maitland
- Hunters Creek
- Conway
- Avalon Park
- Waterford Lakes
Speak with an Orlando Employment Attorney
If you are facing workplace discrimination, wage theft, retaliation, or wrongful termination, a Orlando employment attorney at Scott Law Team can help. Our firm is dedicated to fighting for employee rights and holding employers accountable for violations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
