There comes an unfortunate time for some of us when the relationship between employer and employee has devolved. It can sometimes feel like we are one small entity competing against this huge machine as an employee. That is where having an employment lawyer can come into play.

Contrary to popular belief, employment lawyers are not just for companies to use, though they serve that purpose. They can also help employees with a variety of employer-related issues. They not only protect the rights of the employee but handle a litany of complicated endeavors related to the case.

If you find yourself locked into battle with a former employer, having the right lawyer can make all the difference in the world. Here are more than a few reasons why you should have the right lawyer on your side as an employee.

The Law Can Be Complicated

It kind of goes without saying, but the law can be extremely complicated at times. That is especially true when it comes to employment laws in your area. An employment lawyer can sift through the issues and make sense of it all.

They can clearly outline the situation, your options, and any potential resolutions that there may be. For most of us, that legalese can be enough to confuse us into making the wrong decisions. But a lawyer will protect the employee’s interests and work to ensure that they get what they feel they are owed.

Employment laws, in particular, are drafted in a way that makes them challenging to make sense of, especially if you don’t have a legal background. When the employment lawyer has explained the situation, it becomes easier for the client to understand the path.

They Carry Out Court Dealings

Another area in which your attorney will be far more proficient is in court proceedings. They have been there and done that before. Even better, your attorney can advise you on the best, most effective legal solution based on your case.

It also kind of goes without saying but having the right employment attorney on your side means your chances of winning improve. Going alone might save you on legal fees, but it will put you in an unfavorable position where winning is a long shot.

Discovery Documentation

Part of dealing with an employment suit means a mountain of paperwork. Your employment attorney has a lot of experience in many areas, one of which is in dealing with and reviewing a large volume of documentation.

They have the trained eyes to go through that mountain of paperwork and pick out the most effective pieces for your case. Lawyers can also use these discovery documents to trace witnesses who are relevant to the case. They are familiar with employers’ tricks in cases like these, putting you in a better overall position.

Negotiating Settlements

Negotiation is a major part of dealing with an employment suit. It may come to the point where you and your former employer need to sit down and hammer out the details of a resolution. There can be high emotions between both parties, making negotiation truly difficult.

But an employment lawyer can act as a mediator and negotiate on your behalf. That means getting fair compensation and avoiding being taken advantage of. When those emotions run high, it is possible to say or do things that could potentially damage the case or even reduce the settlement. Don’t let that happen.

Filing Discrimination Claims

Discrimination is still, unfortunately, a regular part of the working world. When it happens, you need to have a trustworthy employment lawyer in your corner. Generally speaking, there is a designated period when those claims need to be filed.

Having a legal expert do so means filing them correctly. That is especially important when even a minor misstep can potentially lead to severely damaging your case. An employment lawyer will follow the letter’s process, and you will be able to protect your rights with a legal expert beside you.

Opposing and Filing Motions

Finally, your employment lawyer can file motions on your behalf that are pertinent to the case. They can also oppose any motions that have been filed against you in the courts, fighting for your rights on your behalf.

Consider your lawyer your first line of defense when a problem arises in the courts. These issues can be extremely complicated, and one misstep can cost you a case. That is why it is imperative to leave it in the hands of a skilled professional. Whatever fees or costs you incur will be more than worth the trouble along the way.