Employment Questions and Answers
-
My employer discharged me. Can I get my job back?
In North Carolina, an employer can discharge for almost any reason. The only
exceptions are: discharges for discrimination or against public policy,
employees who have been employed under a contract, or covered by the State
Personnel Act. If your employment situation does not fall within these
exceptions, you may not be entitled to get your job back after being
discharged.
-
My employer refuses to pay me all my wages. What can I do?
Your employer must pay your earned wages on the usual pay day. Any
withholding of wages must have been authorized, in writing, by you. If not,
it is illegal and your employer owes you the wages. You can contact the
Department of Labor, Division of Hours and Wages for further help.
-
My employer treats me bad because of my sex, race, age, national origin.
What can I do?
If you suspect you are discriminated or treated differently because of your
age, sex, race, or national origin your employer may be in violation of
federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. If you suspect that you
have suffered discrimination by your employer, you should contact the North
Carolina Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
-
I was discharged and falsely accused. Now I cannot find a job. I suspect
my employer is giving me bad references. What can I do?
There are no specific laws that regulate what an employer can say to a
prospective employer seeking references. Basic laws of slander and libel
apply. However, it is difficult to show what an employer actually says when
references are requested. Be honest with a potential employer and explain in
your own terms why you were discharged.
Employment Brochures and Other Resources
Disclaimer
The materials contained on this website are for information and educational
purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Please contact your
Legal Aid of North Carolina office or a private attorney if you need to speak to
an attorney regarding your particular situation. See our complete
disclaimer.
Mission Statement
Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide, nonprofit law firm that
provides free legal services in civil matters to low-income people in
order to ensure equal access to justice and to remove legal barriers
to economic opportunity.