Our Services

Employment Law

Worcester, Massachusetts Employment Law Attorneys
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties

Even though most employees are at will, both Massachusetts and federal laws protect employees and people seeking redress for unfair practices. If you believe you have been treated unfairly by an employer, the Massachusetts employment law attorneys at Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray can help.

Employers who have engaged in particularly egregious conduct may be liable for punitive damages. We evaluate your case and determine whether your rights may have been violated. No employee should have to tolerate unfair treatment by an employer, and if you have a claim, we can help make you whole again.


Non-Compete Agreements & Waivers

  • If your employer made you sign a non-compete agreement, we can review whether it complies with Massachusetts law. Non-compete agreements that unreasonably restrict your right to work may be illegal and unenforceable.
  • If your employer asks you to sign a waiver form that could release rights you have, consult an attorney before signing. Some waivers may not be enforceable.

Cases We Handle As Massachusetts Employment Law Attorneys

Discrimination

Discrimination in hiring, firing, and workplace policies, including discrimination based on sex, age, race, gender, maternity status, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, or ancestry, or disability.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is sadly common and should not be tolerated. The law protects employees from harassment, and if you have been harassed at work you have the right to take action.

Unpaid Wages

Unpaid wages and benefits, such as when you have not been paid for time worked or overtime, or have not received benefits. You may have a claim under the Massachusetts Wage Act and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act.

PFML & FMLA

Protecting your right to take job-protected leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act and the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave program, and holding employers accountable when that right is denied.

Occupational License

Occupational license defense for health care providers, realtors, childcare providers, casino workers, liquor store owners, accountants, attorneys, and contractors. If you are charged with a crime or certain civil charges, such as abuse or neglect of a client, your license may be in jeopardy.

Independent Contractor Misclassification

Misclassification as an independent contractor happens when a company issues 1099 tax forms illegally. If you have been treated as an independent contractor when you are actually an employee, you may have a right to recover unpaid compensation.


Retaliation

If your employer has retaliated against you simply because you complained about a wrongful workplace policy or practice, you may have a claim against the employer. The law recognizes the power employers often have over their employees, and that employees would be afraid to challenge unfair practices without adequate legal protection.

Do not wait to consult with a Massachusetts employment law attorney. In some cases, either the law or practical considerations require you to act promptly, so it is important to begin working on your case as soon as possible.


Frequently Asked Questions

If you have experienced adverse treatment at work based on a protected characteristic like race, gender, age, disability, or religion, you may have a claim. We review the specific facts of your situation during a free consultation to assess your options.

Generally, you must file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Missing this deadline can bar your claim, so it is important to act promptly.

No. Retaliation for reporting discrimination, harassment, or wage violations is illegal under Massachusetts and federal law. If you experience retaliation, you may have an additional claim.

Massachusetts uses a strict three-part test to determine whether a worker is properly classified as an independent contractor. Misclassification can deny workers benefits and protections they are legally entitled to.

You are not required to have one, but an attorney can help make sure your claim is properly documented and filed within the correct deadlines, and can pursue additional damages you may be entitled to under Massachusetts wage law.