Many new or smaller companies rely on independent contractors to complete work needed – or owners may try to handle all the work themselves. There often comes a time when you need to hire employees to grow your business and maintain quality operations. Before you hire an employee, there are many legal issues to consider, and you should not hesitate to consult with a business lawyer in Atlanta about your situation.
Labor and Employment Compliance
There are many federal and Georgia state labor and employment laws with which employers are expected to comply. Such laws address many aspects of employment, including:
- Minimum wage
- Overtime
- Classifying employees as exempt or nonexempt
- Anti-discrimination and anti-harassment
- Family and medical leave
- Providing pay statements
- Workplace health and safety
If you violate an employee’s rights, you can face civil penalties from the government, as well as liability to the employees for damages. Violations can be costly, so you want to plan for compliance right from the start.
Employment Contracts
Many employment relationships are at-will, which means you can terminate the employee for any reason that does not violate employment laws. However, some employers might want to have employees sign contracts for a certain period of employment. These contracts also dictate the terms of employment, including the reasons for termination. Even if you do not have an employment contract, you might want employees to sign non-compete agreements, non-solicitation agreements, or non-disclosure agreements.
Tax issues
There are tax requirements when you have employees, and you need to make preparations for accurate and compliant payroll, which can be a complex process. Tax-related employment mistakes can be costly for companies.
Consult with a Business Lawyer in Atlanta to Discuss Your Situation
Battleson Law, LLC, helps company owners through the process of hiring employees in compliance with the law. Call 404.382.8149 or contact us online for assistance.