Introduction The request for overtime often comes with the unspoken expectation that employees will readily accept. For many workers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, declining extra hours might be a necessity due to family commitments, health concerns, or simply the need for a work-life balance. However, the decision to say “no” can sometimes be met…
Introduction In the diverse workplaces of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, employees bring a rich tapestry of backgrounds, beliefs, and practices. For many, religious faith is a deeply personal and guiding force that influences daily life, including their professional routines. Sometimes, these religious practices may conflict with work schedules, dress codes, or other employment policies, leading…
The new year often brings about fresh starts, but for some employees, it can bring uncertainty. Companies frequently undergo reorganizations, a process that can lead to shifts in roles, responsibilities, and even the requirement for existing employees to reapply for their own positions. This can be a jarring experience, leaving many to wonder about the…
I. The Legal Snapshot: A Quick Summary Employees taking FMLA leave during the holidays face unique risks of retaliation, including the denial of “attendance bonuses” and accusations of leave abuse. To avoid these pitfalls, employees should provide written notice of their leave needs as early as possible, avoid social media activity that contradicts their…
I. The Legal Snapshot: A Quick Summary Employers often enforce “blackout dates” for vacation requests during the holidays, but these policies generally cannot be applied to protected medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Punishing an employee for taking necessary medical leave during a busy holiday period—by withholding bonuses, assigning penalty…
I. The Legal Snapshot: A Quick Summary While employers generally have the right to set work location policies, they cannot deny a remote work request if it qualifies as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or equivalent state laws (NJLAD/PHRA). Denying remote work for discriminatory reasons (e.g., based on disability, gender,…
Taking time off work to care for yourself or your family is stressful enough. You shouldn’t also have to fear losing your job or being punished for exercising your rights. Unfortunately, some employers retaliate against employees who take leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If you’re facing FMLA retaliation, you have strong…
Facing retaliation at work can be overwhelming. You may feel singled out, silenced, or even fear losing your job for standing up for your rights. If you’re searching for a “retaliation attorney near me,” know that you are not alone. Swartz Swidler has helped countless employees in New Jersey and Pennsylvania fight back against unlawful…
You’ve replayed the moment in your head more times than anyone should—and still, nothing feels right. Maybe it was the promotion that went to someone less qualified, or the subtle comments about your age or appearance. Then HR brushed you off. You know it wasn’t about performance. When the words “Top NJ employment discrimination attorneys“ are…
You gave your all. Then you mentioned your pregnancy. Your disability. Your religion. And just like that—meetings stopped, responsibilities shifted, and the termination email arrived. You’re left thinking: Was this even legal? If you’re saying “They fired me because of my [identity],” you may be the victim of wrongful termination due to discrimination—and the law…