10 Workplace Rights Every Employee Should Know (Listicle)
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Understanding your workplace rights is essential for every employee, whether you're new to the job market or a seasoned professional. This guide highlights 10 crucial rights, from fair wages to protection against discrimination, ensuring you know how to seek help from an employment attorney near you if your rights are violated.
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Discover the 10 essential workplace rights every employee should know, including the right to fair wages, a discrimination-free environment, and safe working conditions. If you believe your rights are being violated, consult an attorney near you for expert legal support and guidance.
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Mar 29, 2025 04:27 PM
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10 Workplace Rights Every Employee Should Know
Whether you’re starting a new job or have been in the workforce for years, understanding your workplace rights is crucial. Employees often face issues like unpaid wages, discrimination, or unsafe working conditions, and many don’t realize they have legal protections under federal and state laws.
Here’s a breakdown of 10 key workplace rights every employee should know. If you believe your rights are being violated, an employment lawyer near you can help you take action.
💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”
1. The Right to a Fair Wage
- The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) guarantees a federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, but many states require higher wages.
- Non-exempt employees must be paid overtime (1.5 times their regular pay) for hours worked over 40 per week.
- Employers cannot withhold wages or refuse to pay for overtime.
💡 If your employer is not paying you fairly, consult an employment lawyer near you to recover unpaid wages.
2. The Right to a Discrimination-Free Workplace
- Employers cannot discriminate based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, national origin, or sexual orientation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and other federal laws.
- Workplace discrimination applies to hiring, promotions, pay, and terminations.
- If you experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
💡 If you've been discriminated against, an attorney can help you file a claim and seek compensation.
3. The Right to a Safe Workplace
- Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), employers must provide a safe and hazard-free work environment.
- Employees have the right to report unsafe conditions or workplace injuries without retaliation.
- If you're injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation.
💡 If your employer ignores safety violations, consult an employment lawyer near you for legal options.
4. The Right to Be Free from Sexual Harassment
- Sexual harassment is a form of workplace discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
- This includes unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, or a hostile work environment.
- Employers must take action if harassment is reported.
💡 If you've been harassed at work, a lawyer can help you file an EEOC complaint or a lawsuit.
5. The Right to Take Medical or Family Leave
Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for:
- Serious medical conditions
- Childbirth or adoption
- Caring for a sick family member Employers cannot retaliate against employees for taking FMLA leave.
💡 If your employer denies FMLA leave, an employment lawyer can help you fight back.
6. The Right to Reasonable Accommodations for Disabilities
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
- Accommodations might include flexible work hours, modified workspaces, or assistive technology.
- Employers cannot fire or refuse to hire someone based on their disability.
💡 If your employer refuses to accommodate you, consult an attorney for legal support.
7. The Right to Discuss Wages & Working Conditions
- Employees have the right to discuss salaries, wages, and workplace conditions with coworkers under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
- Employers cannot fire or retaliate against workers for talking about pay, benefits, or working conditions.
- This right also includes the ability to unionize and negotiate collectively.
💡 If you face retaliation for discussing pay, an employment lawyer near you can protect your rights.
8. The Right to Report Workplace Violations Without Retaliation
Employees can file complaints about workplace violations (e.g., wage theft, discrimination, safety hazards) with government agencies like:
- The EEOC (for discrimination/harassment)
- The Department of Labor (for wage violations)
- OSHA (for unsafe conditions) Employers cannot fire, demote, or punish employees for reporting legal violations.
💡 If you’ve been retaliated against, a lawyer can help you seek justice.
9. The Right to a Written Employment Agreement (In Some States)
- Some states require written contracts for certain jobs, especially for freelancers and independent contractors.
- Written contracts should clearly state pay rates, job duties, and termination terms.
- In states like New York and California, laws like the Freelance Isn’t Free Act require employers to provide written contracts and pay freelancers on time.
💡 If an employer refuses to provide a contract or fails to pay, a lawyer can help you enforce your rights.
10. The Right to Protection from Wrongful Termination
Most U.S. jobs are at-will, meaning employers can fire employees without reason. However, wrongful termination occurs if:
- The firing is based on discrimination.
- The firing is retaliation for reporting misconduct.
- The employer violated an employment contract. Wrongfully terminated employees may be entitled to compensation, reinstatement, or damages.
💡 If you were wrongfully fired, an employment lawyer near you can help you take legal action.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights & Take Action
Knowing your workplace rights is the first step to protecting yourself from unfair treatment. If you suspect your employer is violating labor laws, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice.
At ReferU.AI, we connect you with top-rated employment attorneys near you. Our AI-powered system finds lawyers with a proven track record of handling similar cases—so you get the best legal support available.
Get expert legal help today—your workplace rights matter!