What is the Law Regarding Employment in Whatcom County?

The body of laws in Whatcom County regulating employees, their employees, and independent contractors is known as employment law. This area of law governs such employment issues as hiring procedures, wage amounts, and termination. Employers and employees in Whatcom County must have an understanding of the employment laws.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Occasionally an employment contract is used that sets a particular length of employment, but most of the times employment is considered to be on an "at-will" basis. "At-will" employment means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the position at any given time, even without a particular reason, so long as the termination does not violate the law Federal and state laws control the enforcement of employment clauses provisions for citizens of Whatcom County.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Whatcom County

Discrimination is illegal at any time of employment such as hiring policies, wage distribution, and terminations, according to laws which apply to residents of Whatcom County. People who live and work in Whatcom County must follow laws which make it illegal to discriminate on the basis of specific categories. These categories include race, gender, age, national origin, and disability.

An administrative agency such as the EEOC can hear discrimination claims. Additionally, some lawyers specialize in claims for discrimination.