Federal and state laws regulate the hiring process, terms and conditions of employment, and the circumstances under which employees can be fired. The law helps shape the relationship between employer and employee. The law does not address every issues that can arise in the employment relationship, but a basic understanding of what the law does require can help both the employer and employee anticipate problems and avoid trouble. Understanding your legal rights does not mean that those rights can only be enforced by a lawsuit in court. A lawsuit should be viewed as a last resort, not as a starting point.
Lawsuits are costly and time-consuming.
Rather, employers and employees should first try to discuss their differences. Such discussions are easier and more productive when both sides understand how the law affects the situation. Many employers try to anticipate problems before they occur, and solve problems when they do arise. This chapter can help both employees and employers understand how the law affects their rights and obligations at work. It explains the laws and suggests places to turn for further details.