How can I file a workplace discrimination claim?

You can file a workplace discrimination claim through the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Our Franklin Lakes employment law attorney will guide you through the process, gather evidence, and hold your employer accountable for unlawful treatment.

Can I take legal action for wrongful termination in Franklin Lakes?

If you were fired for reasons that violate state or federal law, such as retaliation, discrimination, or whistleblowing, you have the right to pursue a legal claim. Our employment lawyer in Franklin Lakes will assess your situation and build a strong case to recover lost wages and achieve justice.

What legal options do I have if I face wage theft?

If your employer has failed to pay overtime, withheld wages, or misclassified your role to avoid paying you fairly, you may have grounds for a wage theft claim. Our Franklin Lakes employment law attorney can file a claim under New Jersey wage and hour laws to pursue the unpaid wages you're owed.

Employment Lawyer in Franklin Lakes, NJ

Protecting your livelihood and professional future

Workplace issues such as discrimination, retaliation, unpaid wages, or sudden termination can place your career and financial stability at risk.

Our firm represents employees in Franklin Lakes and across Bergen County with more than 35 years of experience handling state and federal employment disputes. We provide clear legal analysis, practical guidance, and focused representation designed to protect your income, reputation, and long‑term professional interests.

Why Employees Across Bergen County Rely on Our Firm

Choosing the right employment attorney means looking for experience, preparation, and clarity. Clients turn to our firm because we offer:

More than 35 years of experience representing New Jersey employees in workplace disputes
Representation devoted to individuals and workers, not corporate employers
Early case assessment that includes evidence review and realistic risk evaluation
Active familiarity with Bergen County Superior Court procedures, including motion practice, discovery, and negotiated resolutions
Experience handling matters involving local businesses, healthcare systems, corporate offices, and professional services employers throughout northern New Jersey
Straightforward guidance about strengths, weaknesses, timelines, and potential outcomes
A women-owned firm perspective grounded in fairness, accountability, and respect in the workplace

"I highly recommend this law firm. They are extremely knowledgeable, straight to the point, and truly get the job done." Daniel D. — Client Testimonials from Past Clients

Employment Law Matters We Handle

We represent employees in a range of workplace disputes, tailoring strategy to the facts and available remedies under New Jersey and federal law.

Wrongful Termination and Retaliation

If you’ve been fired for asserting your rights, reporting misconduct, or refusing to participate in unlawful activity, that termination may violate state or federal law.

Workplace Discrimination

We handle claims involving discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics.

Sexual Harassment & Hostile Work Environment

Employees have the right to work in an environment free from harassment, intimidation, and unlawful conduct. We pursue appropriate legal remedies when employers fail to address misconduct.

Wage & Hour Violations

If you have been denied overtime, misclassified, or not paid earned wages, we evaluate your rights under New Jersey wage laws and applicable federal standards.

Employment Contracts & Severance Agreements

Before signing a contract or severance package, it is critical to understand your rights. We review, negotiate, and advise on restrictive covenants, compensation terms, and separation agreements.

Whistleblower Claims

New Jersey’s Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) protects employees who report unlawful or unethical conduct. We evaluate whether whistleblower protections apply to your case.

Understanding New Jersey Employment Laws

Although New Jersey is an at-will employment state, employers cannot terminate or discipline employees for unlawful reasons. Key statutes include:

New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD)
Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA)
Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act
New Jersey Wage and Hour Law

Federal laws, including Title VII, the ADA, the ADEA, and the Fair Labor Standards Act, may also apply depending on the circumstances.

How the Process Works

Understanding the process helps you make informed decisions about next steps.

Confidential Consultation – We review the facts and determine whether your rights may have been violated.
Evidence and Case Evaluation – We analyze employment documents, communications, pay records, and relevant evidence.
Strategy Development – We determine whether negotiation, agency filing, or litigation is the most effective path.
Action – This may involve a demand letter, severance negotiation, filing with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or the EEOC, or filing suit.
Resolution – Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. If necessary, we proceed through litigation in Bergen County.

What Compensation May Be Available

Depending on the facts of your case, potential remedies may include:

Back pay and lost wages
Front pay
Unpaid overtime or earned compensation
Emotional distress damages
Attorneys’ fees and court costs where permitted
Punitive damages in appropriate cases

Results depend on the specific claims and evidence involved.

Deadlines Matter in Employment Cases

Employment claims are subject to strict state and federal filing deadlines. Delays can limit your ability to recover compensation, so early evaluation is important.

What to Do If You Believe Your Rights Were Violated

If you suspect unlawful treatment at work:

Preserve emails, messages, and written communications
Keep copies of pay records and performance reviews
Document incidents, dates, and witnesses
Avoid signing agreements before legal review

These steps help preserve evidence and strengthen any potential claim.

Fees and Cost Structure

Many cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning fees are paid from any recovery. Contract reviews or severance negotiations may be billed hourly. The applicable structure is explained during your consultation.

What to Bring to Your Consultation

Preparing for your first meeting helps us evaluate your case efficiently. Bring or gather:

Employment agreements, offer letters, or severance documents
Recent pay stubs and compensation records
Written warnings, performance reviews, or HR correspondence
Emails or text messages related to the dispute
A written timeline of key events

This documentation allows a Ho-Ho-Kus employment lawyer to assess legal exposure and potential remedies quickly.

Employment Law Questions from Workers in Franklin Lakes and Bergen County

How do I file a workplace discrimination claim in Franklin Lakes or Bergen County?

Employees in Franklin Lakes and throughout Bergen County can file discrimination claims with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, depending on the type of employer and claim involved. Before filing, it is important to evaluate which agency has jurisdiction, what deadlines apply, and whether additional legal claims should be preserved.

What should I do if I believe I was wrongfully terminated in Franklin Lakes, NJ?

If you were fired and believe the decision was based on retaliation, discrimination, whistleblowing, or another unlawful reason, the first step is to preserve documents and review the circumstances of your termination. An employment attorney can assess whether your discharge violates New Jersey or federal law and advise you on potential remedies.

Can I sue my employer in Bergen County for unpaid wages or overtime violations?

If you were not paid overtime, were misclassified, or were denied earned compensation, you may be able to pursue a claim under New Jersey wage laws or the Fair Labor Standards Act. Depending on the facts, claims may be filed in state court in Bergen County or through other appropriate legal channels.

Contact Our Legal Team Today

Call or Fill Out The Form Below to Schedule Your Consultation

Are you ready to get started on your case with a consultation? With over 35 years of experience, our attorneys are ready to fight for you. Reach out to us today to see what Cowen & Jacobs can do for you.

NOTICE: The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.

Other Legal Services We Provide

Representing Employees Throughout Bergen County

In addition to Franklin Lakes, we represent employees throughout Bergen County, including Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah, Oakland, Ridgewood, Paramus, and nearby communities. We handle matters involving both local and regional employers across northern New Jersey.

You Don’t Have to Handle Workplace Mistreatment Alone

If you are facing harassment, retaliation, unpaid wages, or sudden termination, your income and reputation may be at risk. A confidential consultation helps you understand your options and decide on a clear next step.