What is the Law Regarding Employment in Columbia?

Employment law refers to the body of laws in Columbia that regulate employees, employers, and independent contractors. Employment issues that are controlled by these laws include hiring policies, wage amounts, and termination procedures. Employment law in Columbia must be understood by employers and employees.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

"At-will" employment is the most common type of employment, but in some cases there may be an employment contract guaranteeing payments for six months to a year. "At-will" employment means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the position at any given time, even without a particular reason, so long as the termination does not violate the law In the instance that the employer and employee have an employment contract, laws from both the state and federal government will apply to the city of Columbia

Anti-Discrimination laws in Columbia

Columbia citizens must abide by laws which make discrimination illegal at all phases of employment, including hiring employees, wage disputes, and terminating procedures. Columbia residents must follow laws which prohibit employer discrimination against members of different classes. These classes include age, gender, race, religion, disability, and national origin.

An administrative agency such as the EEOC can hear discrimination claims. Furthermore, some lawyers specialize in claims for discrimination.