What is the Law Regarding Employment in Durham?

Employment law in Durham covers relationships between employer and employees, and independent contractors. This area of law regulates such employment issues as hiring procedures, wage amounts, and termination. Employment law in Durham should be understood by employers and employees.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Employment is normally considered to be "at-will", although at times the employer and employee may have an employment contract preventing termination before it expires. In "at-will" employment, either the employer or the worker can terminate the job at any time, just as long as the reasons for doing so are not illegal. If an employment contract exists between the parties, state and federal laws will determine the validity and enforcement of the contract terms for people living in Durham.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Durham

Durham citizens must abide by laws which make discrimination illegal at all phases of employment, including hiring workers, wage disputes, and terminating procedures. Individuals who live in the city of Durham are required to follow laws which employers from discriminating based on particular classes. These classes include race, gender, disability, national origin, and age.

A claim regarding discrimination may be heard at an administrative agency like EEOC. Many lawyers specialize in the field of employment discrimination.