Employment Law

At NCLS, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. If you've been wronged by your employer, we're here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Our experienced team is committed to fighting for your rights and providing comprehensive legal support tailored to your unique situation.

Whether you are dealing with a breach of an employment contract, civil rights violations, or contract disputes, NCLS is prepared to stand by your side. We handle cases involving age, gender, and sexual orientation discrimination, as well as issues related to marital status, national origin, pregnancy, and religious beliefs. Whether your case relates to defamation, employee benefits, FMLA violations, harassment claims, military leave rights under USERRA, privacy rights, retaliation and whistleblower claims, union rights, wage and hour disputes, workers' compensation claims, workplace safety, and wrongful termination. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair treatment and the justice you deserve.

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Loved by our Community

At North Carolina Legal Services we believe that access to the justice system shouldn't be limited by one's income. We offer quality legal services at a price that working families can afford.

- Rich Gittings, the owner of the firm, is a brilliant, creative, and caring lawyer who genuinely cares about providing the best services to his clients. I would highly recommend hiring North Carolina Legal Services for any of your legal needs.
  Morgan Brock-Smith
  JD at United States District Court
- Rich is not only a knowledgeable and outstanding lawyer, he is genuinely an amazing person. The very structure of his business was born out of the want to help people and he truly succeeds at his mission. As someone who not only uses North Carolina Legal's services but also someone who shares a passion to use their skills to help others and better the community they live in, I can attest not only to his legal acumen, but his character as a person, both of which are top tier.
  Kyle Beausoleil
  Financial Analyst of Duke University
- My business partner and I used North Carolina Legal Services to help stand up our business. We loved using them, they gave excellent referrals, walked us through everything we needed to be protected and followed up with us afterwards! I highly recommend reaching out to them for their services!
  Marcus Morrow
  Co-Owner at Chibangas Neighborhood Market
- I utilized NCLS for assistance with my employers contractual matters. Mr. Gittings demonstrated profound expertise and was consistently supportive. His communication was punctual and dependable throughout the entire process. I am genuinely grateful for the presence of such a reputable and cost-effective legal service in North Carolina.
  Kristen Rissell
  Clincal Social Worker of Duke University
- The attorney with whom I spoke demonstrated patience as well as being well-versed in that specialty of the law. I was able to ask and get an answer for each of my questions. . . [W]ow. I did not feel rushed. The attorney provided me with the knowledge and confidence to be successful at court. Words can not adequately express my gratitude. I regret not having previously found North Carolina Legal Services.
  Amy Hahn
  Director at Velocity Industries
- A former attorney left me in a very difficult position with my custody dispute, and North Carolina Legal Services where able to step in, and salvage the situation. Not only did they salvage the situation, but they helped my obtain an outcome that was to my benefit.
  Jonathan Matthews
  Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch

Frequently asked questions about Employment Law

- What counts as wrongful termination in North Carolina?
  In North Carolina most workers can be fired at any time. However, a firing may be wrongful if it violates anti-discrimination laws, retaliates against protected activity, or breaches a contract. An attorney can help you evaluate whether your termination qualifies.
- Can I be fired without notice in NC?
  In most cases, North Carolina law does not require employers to give notice before firing an employee. Exceptions exist if you have an employment contract that requires notice, or if the termination violates another law such as anti-discrimination or anti-retaliation protections. An attorney can review your circumstances and explain whether those protections apply.
- What protections do I have against discrimination at work in NC?
  Employees are protected by federal and state laws against discrimination based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, and other categories. These laws also prohibit retaliation for reporting discrimination. If you've experienced workplace discrimination, legal advice can help you decide on next steps.
- How do I file a workplace discrimination complaint in NC?
  Complaints can be filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the NC Human Relations Commission. Deadlines are short—often 180 days—so it's important to act quickly. An attorney can help you prepare and file a strong complaint.
- What is considered a hostile work environment in North Carolina?
  A hostile environment occurs when harassment or discrimination is severe or pervasive enough to interfere with an employee's work. This can include repeated offensive comments, threats, or intimidation. Legal guidance can help you determine whether your situation meets the legal standard.
- How do I request a workplace accommodation under the ADA in NC?
  You can request an accommodation by notifying your employer of your disability and the changes you need to perform your job. Employers must engage in an interactive process to find a reasonable solution. A lawyer can advise you if your request is denied or ignored.
- What deadlines apply for filing an EEOC charge in NC?
  Most discrimination claims must be filed within 180 days of the incident, though some extend to 300 days if state law also applies. Missing the deadline can bar your claim entirely. An attorney can ensure your filing is timely and complete.
- What wage and hour laws apply to NC employees?
  North Carolina follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets rules for minimum wage, overtime, and recordkeeping. Misclassification of employees as exempt or as contractors is a common issue. Legal advice can clarify whether you are being paid correctly.
- Can my employer retaliate if I report harassment or discrimination?
  Retaliation is illegal under both state and federal law. If your hours are cut, you're reassigned unfairly, or you're fired after reporting misconduct, you may have a claim. A lawyer can help you prove retaliation and protect your rights.
- How can a lawyer help me review a severance agreement in NC?
  An attorney can explain what rights you are giving up, whether the payment is fair, and if the agreement complies with the law. They can also negotiate for better terms if appropriate. Getting a review before signing can prevent you from losing important rights.

Our Services

Explore a wide range of legal services provided by North Carolina Legal Services. Our dedicated team offers expert assistance in Family Law, Small Business Legal Support, Employment Law, Tenant Rights Law, and Probate & Estate Planning. Find the legal support you need to protect your rights and secure your future.

Family law

Empower your family to move forward confidently

At NCLS, we offer empathetic and result-oriented representation for our clients' family law concerns. We strive to help our clients move on with their lives feeling confident.

Small Business and Nonprofits

Legal support for small businesses and nonprofits to succeed

We believe that small businesses and nonprofits give our community its distinct and special character. We are committed to helping entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders with the legal support they need to succeed in a competitive and challenging environment.

Employment Law

Protect your rights in the workplace

Tenant Rights Law

Expert assistance to protect your home

Navigating legal issues with your landlord can be complicated and stressful. We provide expert legal assistance to ensure that your rights are protected when resolving disputes with your landlord.

Probate and Estate Planning

Estate planning and administration services

At NCLS, we are dedicated to helping you plan for the future and manage the affairs of your loved ones after they pass. We provide comprehensive legal services to ensure your wishes are respected and your family is taken care of.

Special Education and IEP Advocacy

Supporting families and communities

At NCLS, we are committed to supporting families navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process and other special education services. Our team provides guidance and representation to ensure every child receives the educational support they are entitled to under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504, and more.