What Does it Mean to Be Furloughed? 

FURLOUGH rubber stamp on paper with paper pins in the background. 3D illustration

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, …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

The Enforceability of Non-Compete Agreements in North and South Carolina 

Man signing an employee Non-compete agreement. Selective focus

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation Request?

Elevated View Of A Male Manager Shaking Hands With Female Applicant At Workplace

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

Should I just Sign My “Standard” Separation Agreement & Get it Over With?

Close-up Of Two Businesspeople Hand With Document On Desk

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

Federal Trade Commission Bans Non-Compete Agreements

The Noble Law Logo

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

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 …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |

The Noble Law Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic American Heritage Month celebrates the thriving Hispanic community in America and its influence on food, music, literature, TV, movies, style, and culture. We also celebrate the Hispanic community’s contributions to America’s prosperity—with members working as engineers, scientists, lawyers, doctors, teachers, US military personnel, elected officials, and so much more. When Did National Hispanic American Heritage Month Begin? The first National Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968, sponsored by California Congressman George E. Brown of East Los Angeles and …
Read More »

Posted in Employment Law, Noble Notes Employment Law Blog |