What is the Law Regarding Employment in Barnstable County?

In Barnstable County, employment law means those laws covering employee and employer relationships, as well as independent contractors. Employment issues that are regulated by these laws include hiring policies, wage amounts, and termination procedures. Employment law in Barnstable County should be understood by employers and employees.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

"At-will" employment is the most common form of employment, but in some cases there may be an employment contract guaranteeing payments for six months to a year. "At-will" employers or employees may terminate the employment at any given time, if the reasons are not illegal. Laws of both the state and federal government determine which employment terms are valid and enforceable should there be a contract between the Barnstable County employee and employer.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Barnstable County

Discriminating at any point of employment such as hiring, workplace environment, and terminating, is illegal according to laws applicable to Barnstable County residents. Residents of Barnstable County are regulated by laws which make it illegal to discriminate against members of specific categories. These categories include race, age, gender, national origin, disability, and religion.

Discrimination claims can often be heard in front of an administrative agency such as the EEOC. Some attorneys specialize in the field of discrimination claims.