Services
Protecting Your Rights in the Workplace
Employment Contracts & Related Agreements
Navigating employment offers and employment-related agreements can be daunting, but J.B. Andrews Law is here to make it easier. Jalise provides comprehensive reviews of employment offers, agreements, and restrictive covenants—including confidentiality, non-competition, and non-solicitation clauses—so you fully understand what you are signing. These agreements can have long-lasting impacts on your career and financial future, so it is essential to approach them with a clear strategy.
When it comes to negotiations, Jalise offers flexible support. Whether you want Jalise to take the lead or simply operate behind the scenes to provide strategic advice, she is here to help you secure favorable terms that align with your goals. If a dispute arises over a restrictive covenant—whether it’s a non-compete clause limiting your future job opportunities or a non-solicitation agreement restricting client relationships—Jalise is ready to step in and represent you in resolving the matter efficiently and effectively.
Employment Discrimination & Harassment
Everyone deserves a workplace where they can thrive, contribute their talents, and pursue their professional goals without fear of discrimination or harassment. Unfortunately, too many employees still face unfair treatment based on race, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. The impact can be profound—derailing careers, damaging mental health, and creating financial instability.
When this happens, you deserve a powerful advocate on your side. Jalise represents employees who have experienced discrimination or harassment, helping them navigate complex legal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL). In particular, the New York laws offer broad protections, even extending to independent contractors who are not covered under federal law.
J.B. Andrews Law handles sexual harassment cases with care and discretion, working to hold employers accountable and create safer workplaces. Jalise is also passionate about advocating for LGBTQ+ employees, ensuring their rights are fully protected and that they can work in an environment free from bias and hostility. The goal is simple: to ensure you feel heard, supported, and empowered to take action against discrimination and harassment.
Workplace Retaliation
Retaliation in the workplace can be devastating, and it’s illegal when directed at employees who engage in protected activities. If you have complained about discrimination or harassment, whether informally or formally or participated in an internal investigation, you are protected under the law. Retaliation can manifest in various ways, including termination, demotion, unfavorable work schedules, or reduced responsibilities.
New York State’s Whistleblower Law offers strong protections for employees who disclose or oppose actions they reasonably believe to be illegal or harmful to public health or safety. If you’ve been punished for raising concerns about your employer’s unlawful practices, J.B. Andrews Law will fight to hold your employer accountable and work to secure remedies, including compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
Reasonable Accommodations
Employers are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations that enable employees to perform their jobs effectively while respecting their health and religious beliefs. J.B. Andrews Law helps employees request and secure accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), NYSHRL, and NYCHRL, ensuring that employers meet their legal obligations.
For employees with disabilities, reasonable accommodations might include modified work schedules, physical changes to the workplace, assistive technology, changes in job tasks, or even reassignment to a more suitable role. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for known limitations related to, pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related conditions, unless doing so creates an undue hardship for the employer. This can include lighter duties, flexible hours, or additional breaks.
J.B. Andrews assists with lactation accommodations, making sure employees have adequate time and private spaces to pump breast milk, along with appropriate storage solutions. For employees who require religious accommodations, J.B. Andrews helps negotiate adjustments like flexible scheduling for religious holidays, prayer breaks, or modifications to dress codes. Jalise is here to ensure your workplace supports your full participation without compromising your rights.
Interference with Protected Leave
Taking leave for medical needs, pregnancy, or family care is a legal right under several federal, state, and local laws. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the New York City Sick Leave Law, and similar protections ensure that employees can take necessary time off without fear of retaliation or job loss. Employers who interfere with or deny protected leave are breaking the law.
J.B. Andrews Law represents employees who have been penalized for taking protected leave or whose requests have been wrongfully denied. Whether you’re navigating short-term disability, pregnancy-related leave, or caring for a family member, Jalise can help you understand your rights and fight back against any retaliation or interference.
Unpaid Wages & Overtime
You work hard, and you deserve to be fully compensated. Wage theft—whether it’s unpaid wages, withheld overtime, unfulfilled commission payments, or denied bonuses—can significantly impact your livelihood. Employers who fail to pay employees correctly may be subject to penalties and could owe you additional damages beyond your unpaid wages.
J.B. Andrews Law helps employees recover unpaid wages and fight for proper compensation, whether the issue is straightforward or involves complex pay structures. Jalise also addresses common wage violations like employee misclassification (treating employees as independent contractors to avoid overtime). Our goal is to ensure you receive every dollar you are owed and that your employer is held accountable for any violations.
Terminations & Severance
Losing your job can be an emotional and financially destabilizing experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. J.B. Andrews Law helps employees navigate terminations—whether they’re abrupt layoffs, performance-related firings, or strategic company downsizing—to determine if their rights were violated. Even at-will employees may have valid claims if their termination was discriminatory, or retaliatory.
Jalise will thoroughly review the circumstances of your separation to identify potential legal claims, including discrimination, retaliation for protected activities, or breaches of employment contracts. J.B. Andrews Law’s goal is not only to pursue justice but also to help you secure the strongest possible severance package. Employers often offer severance agreements that include waivers of legal claims—before you sign, let Jalise review the terms and negotiate on your behalf.
If you’ve been placed on a Performance Improvement Plan (known as a “PIP”), know that it’s often used as a precursor to termination. Jalise can help you develop a plan of action, whether that means improving your standing within the company or preparing for a strategic exit. In every situation, J.B. Andrews Law is here to protect your interests and guide you toward the best possible outcome.
