Mitchell & Sheahan, P.C. provides comprehensive employment law counseling for Connecticut and New York businesses. We leverage our in-depth knowledge of employment law to help employers confidently navigate the intricate landscape of workplace laws.

Our legal team helps companies create well-conceived policies and procedures and employee handbooks tailored to their unique needs. By working with us, you can protect your interests, create a positive work environment, and position your business for growth. Contact us today to consult with an experienced employment law attorney.

Counseling on Federal and State Employment Laws

Employers must navigate complex regulations to ensure legal adherence. Our compliance counseling addresses state and federal laws, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and various Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws. 

Understanding and applying these laws is critical to avoid costly litigation and maintain a compliant workplace. In Connecticut, we focus on the following:

  • The Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA) mirrors and sometimes expands upon federal anti-discrimination laws. It prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, sex, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disability, intellectual disability, learning disability, or physical disability.
  • Compliance with Connecticut’s unique wage and hour laws, ensuring employers fulfill state-specific minimum wage and overtime requirements.

For clients in New York, we provide advice and counsel on:

  • New York State Human Rights Law, which prohibits discrimination based on a broad range of protected characteristics and covers most employers 
  • New York Labor Law requirements on minimum wage, overtime, and employee classification.

Beyond meeting legal requirements, employers must foster a respectful, inclusive, and legally compliant workplace culture. At Mitchell & Sheahan, we counsel clients on mitigating risk and cultivating a positive work environment.

Establishing Employment Policies and Procedures 

Well-crafted policies and procedures are the backbone of day-to-day operations, ensuring compliance and promoting a harmonious workplace. Our comprehensive employment law counseling services include:

  • Development of employment policies: We assist in formulating legally compliant policies that align with your business’s values and goals. This includes anti-discrimination policies, health and safety protocols, and procedures regarding wage and hour laws.
  • Regular reviews and updates: The legal landscape is constantly evolving. We ensure your policies and procedures remain up-to-date with the latest laws and best practices.
  • Training programs: We offer training for management and staff on key policies and legal requirements, such as anti-discrimination, harassment prevention, and workplace safety protocols. This ensures everyone understands their rights and responsibilities, promoting a well-informed and compliant work environment.

Recognizing that each business is unique, we tailor policies to fit your organization’s needs and culture.

Designing Employee Handbooks

Employee handbooks are essential tools for employers, serving as a cornerstone for establishing workplace guidelines and expectations. At Mitchell & Sheahan, we recognize the significance of a well-constructed employee handbook and offer first-rate services to ensure it is effective and legally sound.

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for employee handbooks. Each business has its unique culture and operational needs, so we customize handbooks to reflect your specific business environment and policies. 

Our employment law experience ensures that your handbook is informative and legally compliant, incorporating necessary state and federal regulations on:

  • Equal employment opportunity
  • Harassment
  • Workplace safety
  • Leave policies
  • Grounds for dismissal

Consistency in policy enforcement is vital to maintaining a fair and respectful workplace. We focus on making handbooks clear and user-friendly to ensure all employees easily understand policies. You can trust our team to design an employee handbook that outlines policies and procedures, embodies your organization’s ethos and values, and fosters a positive and cohesive work culture.

Why Choose Mitchell & Sheahan For Employment Law Counseling?

Partnering with our firm means entrusting your business to a team deeply committed to understanding and addressing your unique legal needs. We are widely known for our personalized approach, tailoring our counsel to align with your business’s specific circumstances and goals. 

Our experience in federal and state employment laws ensures you receive comprehensive, up-to-date guidance crucial for confidently navigating the intricate landscape of employment regulations. With Mitchell & Sheahan, you gain a dedicated ally committed to fostering a legally compliant, harmonious workplace environment.

Protecting Employers’ Rights And Interests in Connecticut & New York

Mitchell & Sheahan offers a depth of knowledge and a commitment to personalized service that is essential for navigating the complexities of employment law. Don’t leave compliance to chance. Contact us today to learn how our customized approach can benefit your organization.

Mitchell & Sheahan, based in Stratford, CT, serves clients in Stratford, Fairfield County, New Haven County, Greenwich, Danbury, White Plains, and NY.