Employment law

Employment law shapes the relationship between employers and employees, setting out key rights and responsibilities for both parties. The legal landscape is complex, with federal, state and local rules all playing a role – often varying depending on an organization’s business size, industry, and location.

While some employment laws are designed to protect employees, others make it possible for employers to effectively manage their workforce.

Federal employment law is composed of a complex set of rules made up of various components, such as:

  • Executive Orders
  • Statutes
  • Regulations
  • Agency interpretive materials and opinions; and
  • Case law

In the United States, these laws are enforced by agencies including the Department of Labor (DOL)Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Various employment laws provide employees with certain rights, such as the right to:

  • Be paid fair wages
  • A safe workplace
  • A workplace free from discrimination and harassment; and
  • File complaints against an employer without fear of retaliation

Employers must follow the letter and spirit of the law throughout the employment life cycle, from recruiting to termination.

Explore our employment law resources

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