Navigating problems at work can be overwhelming. Whether it's a dispute with your employer, uncertainty about your rights, or questions about how you're being treated, it's not always easy to know when to speak up—and when to call a lawyer. In Pennsylvania, workers are protected by both state and federal employment laws, but those protections don’t always prevent unfair treatment.
Sometimes, the best step you can take is to get legal advice from someone who understands workplace law inside and out. Employment lawyers help workers understand their rights, advocate for fair treatment, and hold employers accountable when laws are violated.
If you're not sure when to reach out, here are five common situations where working with a Pennsylvania employment attorney can make a difference.
1. You've Been Wrongfully Terminated
Pennsylvania is an “at-will” employment state, which means employers can usually fire workers for almost any reason—or no reason at all. But there are important exceptions. If you were fired because of your race, gender, religion, disability, age, or because you reported illegal activity (whistleblowing), your termination may have been unlawful.
Wrongful termination claims can be difficult to navigate without legal help. An attorney can review your case, gather evidence, and determine whether your rights were violated under laws like the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
2. You’re Facing Workplace Discrimination or Harassment
Everyone deserves a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment. If you’ve experienced negative treatment based on a protected characteristic—such as your race, sex, pregnancy status, religion, or age—you may have grounds for a legal claim.
Harassment doesn't always involve obvious insults. It can include unwanted advances, inappropriate jokes, exclusion, or even retaliation after reporting a concern. Pennsylvania law, along with federal protections under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), prohibits this kind of treatment.
An employment lawyer can help you document your experience, file a complaint, and work toward a resolution—whether through negotiation or legal action.
3. You're Not Being Paid What You're Owed
Wage and hour disputes are more common than many people realize. If your employer has failed to pay you minimum wage, denied overtime pay, misclassified you as an independent contractor, or withheld your final paycheck, you may have a claim.
Pennsylvania’s Minimum Wage Act and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) protect employees from unfair pay practices. An attorney can help you file a wage claim with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry or pursue a lawsuit to recover what you're owed.
4. You’ve Experienced Retaliation After Reporting Misconduct
If you reported workplace discrimination, unsafe working conditions, or illegal behavior and were demoted, disciplined, or fired shortly afterward, you may be dealing with unlawful retaliation. Employers are not allowed to punish workers for asserting their rights or reporting misconduct.
Retaliation can be subtle—like cutting hours, poor performance reviews, or excluding you from meetings. But these actions can have serious consequences for your career. An employment attorney can help you build a case and protect your rights.
5. You Need Help Reviewing or Negotiating a Contract
Whether you’re starting a new job, being offered a severance package, or facing a non-compete agreement, contracts can be difficult to understand. Signing without legal advice can lock you into unfavorable terms that affect your career long-term.
An employment lawyer can review the language of your contract, explain your obligations, and negotiate better terms if needed. This can be especially helpful if your contract includes non-disclosure clauses, non-solicitation terms, or unclear compensation agreements.
Employment Laws Specific to Pennsylvania
In addition to federal protections, Pennsylvania has its own labor laws that provide additional rights for workers. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) enforces anti-discrimination laws, and the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board oversees collective bargaining and unfair labor practices.
Understanding how these laws apply to your specific situation can be challenging, especially if your employer has their own legal team. That’s why speaking to someone familiar with Pennsylvania employment law can be so valuable.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
Workplace issues can affect more than just your job—they can take a toll on your health, finances, and future. If you're dealing with discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, or a complicated contract, it may be time to speak with an employment lawyer.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we’re here to help you understand your rights and advocate on your behalf. We offer straightforward legal advice and strong representation for workers across Pennsylvania.
Contact us today for a confidential free consultation.