Maine Employment Lawyers
Employment law are those laws passed in Maine that apply to employers, employees and independent contractors. These laws apply to every aspect of workplace endeavors, such as hiring practices, wage disputes, and firing of employees. Maine's employment laws set forth specific mandates that need to be understood by both employers and employees.
At-Will and Contract Employment
Most job relationships in Maine are on the basis of "at will" employment, but in other cases there may be an employment contract with a predetermined term. "At will" employment implies that either the employee or the employer may end the relationship at any point, so long as the reason for the termination is not prohibited. Employment laws of Maine will be of primary importance in order to determine the clauses and agreements when an employment contract is used.
The Law of Discrimination in Maine
The laws of the state of Maine make it illegal to discriminate in any area of the employment, such as when hiring an employee, upon issuing a promotion, or when terminating the employment. Particular categories, or classes, are created by Maine law. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against persons based on their membership in classes such as age, race, disability, national origin, or religion. Determining what types of employer actions are considered discrimination can be subject to dispute. There are many lawyers in Maine who specialize in employment discrimination.
Interesting Facts About Maine
Maine is situated on the eastern coast of the U.S., and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. As a coastal state, Maine's laws, economy and culture are heavily influenced by coastal and maritime aspects. Maine was contained within Massachusetts before it became a separate state.
Maine's legal system is organized according to the Maine Constitution. It consists of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court, the Maine Superior Court, and the District Courts. The Supreme Court is among a handful of state Supreme Courts that are authorized to issue advisory opinions. These provide information and clarification on specific issues, as requested by the legislature or by the governor. The Maine Supreme Judicial Court is somewhat atypical because it is located in Portland and not in the capital city of Augusta.
Maine is an "alcohol beverage control state" (ABC state). This means that the state of Maine exercises strict control over the retailing and wholesaling of alcoholic beverages. However, Maine is not an alcohol monopoly state, since the state does not directly run liquor establishments. Instead, the state contracts with private businesses and takes a commission on sales of alcoholic beverages in the state.
Lawyers in Maine are knowledgeable of the particular details that shape the state's laws. An experienced attorney in Maine can provide advice on legal questions and can help clients obtain legal relief. Maine lawyers are licensed by the state bar and practice law according to state standards.
