What Is an Independent Contractor?
An independent contractor is a self-employed person who does contract work for businesses or other individuals. The distinction between “independent contractor” and “employee” is significant because it determines rights, benefits, and responsibilities under state and federal labor laws. Misclassification of employees as independent contractors can lead to legal consequences for employers. The employment attorneys at The Noble Law are well-versed in these matters and can provide you with the knowledgeable guidance you need regarding misclassification, unpaid overtime, and other issues …
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What Does it Mean to Be Furloughed?
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, many companies are faced with the difficult decision to furlough employees. But what does it really mean to be furloughed, and how does it affect your rights as an employee? For many employees, the uncertainty of a furlough can be confusing and stressful. It is important to understand your rights and protections during this time, and when it might be necessary to seek legal counsel. What Happens During a Furlough? A furlough is a temporary, …
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The Enforceability of Non-Compete Agreements in North and South Carolina
Employers don’t want their former employees to join the competition or steal their clients. To that end, they are increasingly turning to non-compete agreements, also known as a covenant not to compete. Non-compete agreements usually restrict former employees from working in particular geographic areas, and/or in particular types of jobs or industries. The dedicated employment lawyers at The Noble Law can help you regarding the enforcement of non-compete agreements in North and South Carolina. Non-compete Agreements Made between a business …
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The FTC is Considering Banning Non-Compete Agreements: What Would This Mean for Employees?
Companies have long required their employees to sign non-compete agreements, ostensibly to protect proprietary information from falling into the hands of their competitors. Over the past several years, a growing number of companies have started to weaponize non-compete agreements to keep employees from disclosing adverse working conditions, discriminatory practices, and salary disparities. This practice has put non-compete agreements on the Federal Trade Commission’s (“FTC”) radar and the FTC is now considering rules to impose a ban on new non-compete agreements …
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What Federal or State Laws Protect Me As an Employee in North Carolina?
There are a number of federal and state laws that protect you as an employee here in North Carolina. These include, but are not limited to: If you feel that your rights may have been violated, call The Noble Law today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you stand up for your rights and for fair compensation. Your Employment Rights State and federal employment laws protect you in three primary areas: What Does it Mean to Be an …
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What Is a Reasonable Accommodation Request?
When an employee with a disability makes a reasonable accommodation request, they are essentially asking for a change to their workplace environment that will enable them to fully participate in the workplace and perform the essential functions of their position to the best of their ability. The reasonable accommodation request is a quintessential part of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). The goal of the ADA is to ensure equal access to jobs, the working environment, workplace information flow, and …
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Should I just Sign My “Standard” Separation Agreement & Get it Over With?
It is usually not with a feeling of great joy that an employee reads the separation agreement just handed over by his or her soon-to-be former boss. And while your head may be spinning with anger and anxiety now is the time to put those thoughts aside and take a deep breath. There is a popular misconception that all of these agreements are “standard” and don’t require much review. Not true. There are many variations of key provisions that can have a …
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Federal Trade Commission Bans Non-Compete Agreements
On January 5, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) proposed a new rule to ban non-compete clauses, citing concerns about how such clauses harm workers and stifle competition. A non-compete clause in employment contracts is a contractual term between an employer and employee that generally prohibits the employee from working for a competitor, or starting a competing business within a certain geographic area and period of time, after the worker’s employment ends. While non-compete clauses were generally thought to apply …
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At-Will Versus Right-to-Work States
Employment laws regarding an employee’s “right-to-work” and “at-will” status vary from one state to another and can change over time. Do you know the legal implications of these phrases? The Noble Law Firm highlights some of the key aspects of each to help you navigate the applicable employment laws across the Carolinas. Our lawyers can help you understand your rights as an employee and advocate for you if your employer violates them. For help with your employment situation, schedule a …
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Historic Pay-Equity Settlement for Women’s Soccer Reached Amidst Sexual Abuse Allegations
Women’s U.S. professional soccer saw groundbreaking changes in 2022. Settlement of a class action lawsuit over equal pay for women players promises a new era for pay equity in professional soccer. Meanwhile, an investigative report on widespread physical, sexual, and emotional abuse in the National Women’s Soccer League should bring more transparency and oversight. As a women-owned firm, The Noble Law is especially proud to have helped set the stage for this historic, long-overdue victory for gender equality by …
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