Vermont Employment Lawyers
Employment law are those laws passed in Vermont that apply to employers, employees and independent contractors. These laws apply to every aspect of workplace endeavors, such as hiring practices, wage disputes, and firing of employees. Vermont's employment laws set forth specific mandates that need to be understood by both employers and employees.
At-Will and Contract Employment
Most job relationships in Vermont are on the basis of "at will" employment, but in other cases there may be an employment contract with a predetermined term. "At will" employment implies that either the employee or the employer may end the relationship at any point, so long as the reason for the termination is not prohibited. If the employer and employee are working according to an employment contract, Vermont employment law will govern the various clauses contained in the contract.
The Law of Discrimination in Vermont
According to Vermont law, employees may not discriminate against their employees regarding any phase of the employment, including hiring policies, workplace procedures, and termination. In Vermont, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against persons based on their membership in a specific class. These classes may include: age, race, gender, religion, national origin, and disability. The determination of what type of behavior is discrimination is usually a matter of some dispute, and many Vermont attorneys specialize in workplace discrimination.
Interesting Facts About Vermont
The state of Vermont is known as one of the more historic places in the U.S. As the 14th state to join the Union, Vermont was the first state apart from the 13 original colonies. Vermont rich in natural resources and its economy is supported by industries like manufactured goods and tourism.
One of Vermont's most important laws is the Land Use and Development Law of 1970 ("Act 250"). Act 250 creates nine separate environmental commissions whose task is to review any land development projects that might impact the natural environment. This law was the first of its kind in the U.S. and has helped to preserve much of Vermont's natural scenery.
In addition to its environmental laws, Vermont also has some very unique laws in the areas of alcohol control, trespass, gun control, and other fields. For example, in Vermont, a person has the right to walk, fish, or hunt on any unposted/unfenced land (trespass is not automatically assumed). Also, concealed and open carry of firearms is allowed for persons without a license, so long as they are over 16 years old. Vermont was also the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through the passage of legislation rather than through the courts.
Lawyers in Vermont have much experience in dealing with the state's distinct body of laws. A Vermont lawyer can provide valuable assistance when it comes to drafting documents, providing legal advice, and other tasks. Attorneys in Vermont also represent clients through the state's multi-tiered court system.
