What is the Law Regarding Employment in New York?
Employment law in New York covers relationships between employer and employees, and independent contractors. Hiring procedures, wage disputes, and termination are some issues that are governed by these laws. Employers and their employees alike should be knowledgeable of New York employment laws.
"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms
Most forms of work relationships are "at-will", though in some circumstances the employer and employee will have an employment contract for a particular period of time. So long as the reasons are not in violation of law, either the employee or the employer can terminate the position at any time under an "at-will" arrangement. When the parties use an employment contract, the terms of employment will be regulated by their state and federal laws, as applied to people living in New York.
Anti-Discrimination laws in New York
Laws which make discrimination illegal at all stages of employment including hiring, wages, and termination policies, all apply to New York citizens. People living in New York must abide by laws stating it is illegal for employers to discriminate against people who belong to particular classes. These classes may be based on race, national origin, gender, religion, disability, and age.
Employment discrimination claims are often heard by an administrative agency like the EEOC. Additionally, some attorneys are specialists in the discrimination field.