Whether you’re a new hire or a long-time employee, it’s essential to understand your legal rights in the workplace. New Jersey employment law offers broad and robust protections for workers—covering everything from discrimination and harassment to wage violations and wrongful termination. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we believe informed employees are empowered employees. Knowing your rights is the first step in standing up for fair treatment and pursuing justice when violations occur.
Anti-Discrimination Protections
Under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), employees are protected from discrimination based on a wide range of characteristics, including but not limited to:
- Race and color
- Religion or creed
- National origin
- Sex and gender identity
- Sexual orientation
- Disability
- Age
- Pregnancy
- Marital status
- Military service
This law applies to hiring, promotions, layoffs, compensation, job assignments, and other aspects of employment. If you feel you’ve been treated unfairly due to any of these protected categories, you may have a valid legal claim.
Protection from Harassment
Harassment in the workplace—especially sexual harassment—is both illegal and harmful. The NJLAD prohibits any behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment. Harassment can be verbal, physical, or visual, and it doesn’t have to come from a direct supervisor to be unlawful. Employers are legally obligated to address and prevent harassment once they become aware of it.
Fair Wages and Overtime
New Jersey employees have the right to be paid a minimum wage and overtime for hours worked over 40 in a week, unless they fall under specific exemptions. Employers must also ensure workers are not misclassified as independent contractors to avoid paying benefits or overtime. Wage theft, such as withholding pay or not paying for all hours worked, is a serious offense under New Jersey law.
Family Leave and Accommodations
Eligible employees are entitled to take unpaid, job-protected leave under the New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This includes leave for childbirth, adoption, or caring for a family member with a serious health condition. Additionally, employers must provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and disabilities unless doing so would impose undue hardship.
Whistleblower Protection
The Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) protects employees who report illegal, unethical, or unsafe practices by their employer. If you speak out against wrongdoing, your employer cannot retaliate against you through demotion, termination, or other adverse actions. If they do, legal remedies are available to you.
Wrongful Termination
Although New Jersey is an “at-will” employment state, employees cannot be terminated for illegal reasons—such as discrimination, retaliation, or exercising their legal rights. If you’ve been fired under suspicious circumstances, it’s wise to seek legal advice to determine whether your termination was lawful.
How We Can Help
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we advocate for employees across New Jersey who have been wronged by their employers. Whether you’re facing discrimination, harassment, or any other employment law issue, our team provides compassionate guidance and aggressive representation.
For a detailed overview of how we support employees, visit our main website here:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you believe your rights have been violated in the workplace, don’t wait. Reach out to our firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your situation and help you understand your legal options.
Contact Information:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027
