What is the Law Regarding Employment in Washington?

Employees, employers and independent contractors in Washington are controlled by employment law. Such laws control employment matters like hiring, wage levels, and termination policies. Employers and their employees alike should be aware of Washington employment laws.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Employment is normally considered to be "at-will", although at times the employer and employee might have an employment contract preventing termination before it expires. "At-will" employers or employees can end the employment at any given time, if the reasons are not illegal. If an employment contract exists between the parties, state and federal laws will decide the validity and enforcement of the contract terms for people living in Washington.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Washington

Laws that make discrimination illegal at all stages of employment including hiring, wages, and termination policies, all apply to Washington citizens. Washington residents must follow laws which prohibit employer discrimination against members of different classes. These classes include age, gender, race, religion, disability, and national origin.

Employment discrimination claims are often heard by an administrative agency like the EEOC. Furthermore, some attorneys are specialists in the discrimination field.