What is the Law Regarding Employment in Washington County?

Employees, employers and independent contractors in Washington County are controlled by employment law. These laws govern issues in employment such as hiring, workplace disputes, and terminations Both employees and employers must have knowledge of the Washington County 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 set period of time. In "at-will" employment, either the employer or the worker may terminate the job at any time, just as long as the reasons for doing so are not illegal. Laws of both the state and federal government decide which employment terms are valid and enforceable should there be a contract between the Washington County employee and employer.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Washington County

The laws applicable for citizens of Washington County typically make discrimination illegal at any phase of employment, such as hiring, working environment, and terminations. Washington County 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.