Whether you were let go without warning, passed over for a promotion, or pressured to sign a release, you need an employment lawyer in Teaneck who knows how Bergen County employers, mediators, and judges actually work.
Our women-owned firm practices from Court Plaza South in Hackensack, just across the river from Teaneck and steps from the Bergen County Justice Center. We represent employees in discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, whistleblower, and severance matters.
“I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service provided by Barbara Cowen during my divorce settlement.”
Every case is handled by a senior attorney, backed by decades inside local courtrooms and mediation rooms.
Most cases follow five steps, and you’ll know where yours stands at each one.
New Jersey protects workers more broadly than federal law in several areas, but only if you act on those rights in time.
The NJLAD bars discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on race, religion, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, and other protected traits. It also requires reasonable accommodations for disabilities and pregnancy.
The Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act ensures equal compensation for substantially similar work. The Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) shields employees who report illegal or unethical behavior.
The federal FMLA and the New Jersey Family Leave Act protect job-protected leave for a serious health condition, bonding with a new child, or caring for family. Punishing you for taking it is illegal.
New Jersey courts often scrutinize overly broad or restrictive clauses in employment agreements. We can review your contract and protect your future opportunities.
Most NJLAD claims must be filed within two years and CEPA claims within one, while wage claims can reach back six years. EEOC charges generally must be filed within 300 days.
Usually the state where you physically work, so New York law often covers Manhattan commuters. If you work partly from home or report to a New Jersey office, New Jersey law may apply too. We hear this often from Fort Lee and other bridge-town commuters.
Generally no. New Jersey employers must reasonably accommodate religious observance, including Sabbath and holiday schedules, unless it causes undue hardship. Discipline or firing over Shabbat or yom tov observance may support a claim.
Yes. The NJLAD covers employers of every size, from a Cedar Lane shop to a small medical practice, while many federal laws only apply once an employer has 15 or more employees.
Yes. The NJLAD and CEPA cover public employers too. Public employees may also have civil service or union grievance options, which can affect strategy and timing.
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"When I was let go unfairly, Cowen & Jacobs not only explained my rights but made me feel like someone finally had my back."
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The firm is led by its two name partners, so you always know who is working on your matter.
Barbara has practiced in New Jersey since 1981, beginning as a law clerk to a Superior Court judge in Bergen County, and serves on the county’s Ethics Committee. Her practice centers on family law, which matters when a job loss or severance package reshapes child support, alimony, or a divorce settlement. Clients facing both issues get coordinated guidance under one roof.
Sara leads our employment practice, representing Teaneck employees in wrongful termination, sexual harassment, severance, and discrimination cases. Admitted in New Jersey and federal court since 1984, she spent 14 years as an arbitrator at Bergen County Superior Court and co-chaired the county’s ADR Committee. She also holds an LL.M. from NYU School of Law and is a member of the Bergen County Bar Association.
Employers move quickly once they decide to part ways with you, and signing windows and filing deadlines don’t wait. Call (201) 525-0025 for a free consultation and leave with a clear picture of your options.
We are here for you and ready to help you resolve your legal issue. For a consultation discussing your case, call Cowen & Jacobs today.
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