Employment Law & Workplace Disputes
Employees and employers alike deserve fairness, respect, and accountability in the workplace. At JKH Law, we handle employment-related disputes across West Michigan — helping workers protect their rights and assisting businesses in resolving conflicts efficiently and lawfully.
Common Employment-Related Issues
Employment law in Michigan touches nearly every aspect of the workplace. Common disputes include:
Wrongful termination — being fired in violation of anti-discrimination laws, whistleblower protections, or public policy.
Workplace discrimination — adverse treatment based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, national origin, or other protected traits.
Sexual harassment — unwanted sexual advances, hostile work environments, or employer inaction in response to complaints.
Retaliation — punishment for reporting illegal conduct, unsafe conditions, or exercising a legal right (such as filing for workers’ compensation).
Wage and hour violations — failure to pay minimum wage, overtime, or misclassification of employees as independent contractors.
Employment contract disputes — disagreements over non-compete clauses, confidentiality agreements, commissions, or severance terms.
Federal and State Employment Laws
Federal Laws
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 — prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) — protects employees aged 40 and older from age-based discrimination.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — requires reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with disabilities.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) — establishes minimum wage and overtime pay standards.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) — entitles eligible employees to unpaid leave for medical and family reasons without job loss.
Equal Pay Act (EPA) — mandates equal pay for equal work regardless of gender.
Michigan Laws
Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) — prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, and now sexual orientation and gender identity.
Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (PWDCRA) — complements the ADA by prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
Whistleblowers’ Protection Act (WPA) — protects employees who report or are about to report suspected violations of law.
Payment of Wages and Fringe Benefits Act — governs payment timing, deductions, and fringe-benefit enforcement.
Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act (MIOSHA) — ensures safe working environments and protection against retaliation for reporting unsafe conditions.
Our Approach at JKH Law, PLC
Employment disputes can involve sensitive issues and complex regulations. JKH Law offers:
Strategic evaluation of claims and defenses under both Michigan and federal law.
Negotiation and mediation to resolve disputes cost-effectively whenever possible.
Litigation experience in state and federal courts when employers refuse to comply with the law.
Personalized guidance to protect careers, reputations, and financial interests.
Protecting Your Legal Rights — or Your Business
Whether you are:
An employee facing harassment, retaliation, or unfair dismissal, or
An employer needing counsel on compliance, contracts, or defense strategy —
we can help navigate your options, document violations, and pursue or defend claims efficiently. If you believe your workplace rights have been violated — or if your business needs advice to prevent costly disputes — contact JKH Law today. Your initial consultation is confidential and without obligation.
JKH Law, PLC
312 Fulton Street East
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 226-3762 (office)
(616) 988-6504 (fax)
info@jkhlawfirm.com
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