John C. Cook

Virginia Wage Collection Lawyer

November 18, 2024

All employees in Virginia have rights and protections when it comes to wage theft, regardless of their background or job. The wage collection lawyers at Cook, Craig, and Francuzenko are here to assist you if you have been the victim of wage theft. We will fight to help you recover every cent that is owed to you. Can you sue an employer for not paying you in Virginia? Yes, you can. Whether you have experienced wage theft from unpaid overtime, commissions, or wages, our employment lawyers are here to help. We have extensive experience helping employees recover lost wages and receive the maximum compensation possible. We can help you understand the different aspects of wage theft and how the laws in Virginia protect you. What is the Virginia Wage Payment and Collection Law? Virginia has enacted laws and protections for workers for decades to allow them to receive the full amount they earn. Virginia recently passes the Virginia Wage Payment Act and the Virginia Overtime Wage Act. Both of these wage theft laws are designed to protect and empower workers. They provide employees with the legal right to recover unpaid wages in court, potential awards of double or triple the

Race Discrimination Lawyer FAQs

November 11, 2024

What are some examples of racial harassment? Racial harassment can include racial slurs, jokes, or comments; racially offensive drawings, symbols, cartoons or gestures; and other verbal or physical conduct based on an individual’s race. What are the most common types of racial discrimination? Screening out minority job applicants. Refusing to hire minority job applicants. Excluding employees of a particular race from receiving promotions. Subjecting employees of a particular race to disciplinary action or firing. Implementing pay discrepancies based on an employee’s racial background. Engaging in harassment of an employee based on his or her race. Creating employment policies aimed at certain racial or ethnic groups. Are Employers allowed to ask about race? Federal law does not prohibit employers from asking about your race. However, since these questions can indicate possible intent to discriminate, employers should only ask about your race for a lawful purpose, such as complying with government laws. Is it illegal to discriminate against someone of your own race? Yes. It is still illegal. Can I be discriminated against if I am bi-racial or multi-racial? Yes, bi-racial, and multi-racial job applicants and employees are protected from unfair treatment or harassment at work

Mediation and Arbitration Lawyers in Northern Virginia

November 4, 2024

Mediation and arbitration lawyers in Northern Virginia can help you resolve conflicts or legal issues outside of the courtroom. While both can be used to help parties reach a resolution, they are different. Here’s how they are different and where to find an attorney to help you. Conflict Resolution Techniques Both mediation and arbitration can be used during custody disputes, divorce, landlord-tenant disagreements, and other interpersonal conflicts. These techniques help parties reach an agreement while avoiding a lengthy legal battle. The main difference between the two is who makes the final decision. With mediation, the final decision is reached between the two conflicting parties. On the other hand, arbitration calls on an arbitrator to analyze the case details and reach a verdict. Mediation Mediation involves a neutral third party, known as the mediator, who helps the other parties resolve their issues. Mediators work to help the parties communicate rather than hearing each side and coming to a conclusion themselves. Mediation is appealing for several reasons. Benefits include: Solves the conflict Parties have the freedom to make a decision on their own Costs less than litigation Doesn’t bind participants to a specific outcome Less cumbersome than court Arbitration Arbitration settles conflicts

Lawyer for Wrongful Termination Due to Disability

October 28, 2024

If you believe you were fired unlawfully, you may need an attorney for wrongful termination due to disability. Unfortunately, discrimination occurs too often in the workplace. If you have been the victim of wrongful termination, our attorneys can help. What is Unlawful Discrimination? Unlawful discrimination occurs when an employee suffers an adverse action, such as termination, because of their association with a protected class. Workplace discrimination is prohibited by Federal and State laws. Protected categories include, but are not limited to: Race Color Gender Sex Sexual orientation Age Religion Disability Pregnancy National Origin Discrimination laws protect employees. If you are terminated or demoted based on a disability, you may have a case against your employer. Virginia Disability Rights Lawyer Disability discrimination occurs when an employer makes an unjust employment decision or treats an employee unfairly based on their current or past disability. Covered disabilities include even temporary conditions, like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The laws prevent employers from treating employees unfairly due to disability. It also means that employers must make reasonable accommodations to employees. Reasonable Accommodation in Virginia Reasonable accommodations are a change that a disabled person needs to enable him or her to perform the essential functions of

Virginia Lawyer for Non-Disclosure Agreements: Reviews, Counseling & Litigation

October 21, 2024

Whether you have been presented with a non-disclosure agreement or are considering leaving your current position for a new employer, there are several reasons why you might need a lawyer. Understanding the non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before you sign it is crucial, so we highly recommend having it reviewed by an NDA lawyer prior to signing. What is a Non-Disclosure Agreement? A non-disclosure agreement is also known as a confidentiality agreement. It is a legal contract between parties that defines the scope of the confidential information and identify terms prohibiting the disclosure of such confidential information. These obligations can exist between an employee and employer, with customers, joint venture parties or other parties who need access to confidential information for business purposes. Are NDAs Enforceable in Virginia? Yes. NDAs are binding legal agreements. Accepting and executing an NDA may burden you with considerable obligations. There may be broad and long-term restrictions on the information that you can disclose to others. Does an NDA Need to be Written by a Lawyer? Technically, no. Employers write NDAs to protect themselves. However, signing one may restrict the scope of your future ability to work in your fields, and your use of the professional knowledge