New York City Employment Lawyer

For Employees Facing Workplace Discrimination, Harassment, and Unlawful Termination in New York City

Navigating employment law in New York City can be daunting, especially for individuals experiencing unlawful treatment in the workplace. From sexual harassment to wage theft and wrongful termination, the legal challenges employees face are often overwhelming. Greenberg Gross LLP is dedicated to protecting workers, offering skilled legal representation for those seeking justice and accountability. The firm’s employment law attorneys stand by survivors of abuse, mistreatment, and unfair labor practices with a commitment to meaningful change and fair outcomes.

Comprehensive Support in Employment Law

Greenberg Gross LLP provides advocacy across all areas of employment law, representing individuals who’ve experienced mistreatment by their employers. The firm handles complex cases with a thorough understanding of New York labor law, federal regulations, and the distinct protections available to employees in New York City. The firm’s employment law practice is rooted in empathy, legal precision, and a strong commitment to upholding workers’ rights.

Types of Employment Issues Handled

Workplace Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace remains a serious issue across industries. Under both New York and federal law, it is illegal to treat employees unfairly based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or disability. Discrimination can manifest through pay disparities, biased hiring practices, or denial of reasonable accommodations.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment creates a toxic and demeaning work environment. Unwanted advances, requests for sexual favors, or persistent inappropriate comments may constitute a hostile work environment and are prohibited under state and federal law. Survivors have the right to pursue legal action, particularly if they experience retaliation after reporting misconduct.

Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for an unlawful reason—such as filing a complaint about discrimination, or requesting medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Greenberg Gross LLP helps employees contest retaliatory firings and pursue compensation.

Statute of Limitations in New York

Depending on what occurred and whether you are proceeding under New York federal law, the statute of limitations varies. It can be very short, in some cases under 1 year for submitting administrative complaints. It is vital to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. 

Wage Theft and Unpaid Wages

Wage theft includes failure to pay minimum wage, unpaid overtime, and the misclassification of employees as independent contractors. These violations are actionable under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New York Labor Law. Employees who are not paid properly for their time and overtime hours should seek legal guidance immediately.

Workplace Retaliation

Retaliation occurs when an employer penalizes an employee for engaging in a protected activity, such as reporting discrimination or wage violations. Retaliatory actions can include demotion, termination, reduction in hours, or exclusion from opportunities. Retaliation is prohibited under Title VII, the FLSA, and the New York City Human Rights Law.

The Firm’s Approach to Employment Law

Greenberg Gross LLP combines strategic legal experience with a people-first approach. The firm offers a free initial consultation to help prospective clients understand their legal options before beginning the litigation process. The attorneys at the firm exclusively represent employees—not employers.

Clients benefit from the firm’s detailed understanding of New York employment law, as well as applicable New Jersey statutes in relevant cases. The legal team is licensed and experienced in handling employment disputes throughout New York State and New York City. In select cases, the firm may consult on New Jersey law where appropriate.

Each legal strategy is tailored to the client’s personal experience, with an emphasis on transparency, compassion, and practical results.

Legal Protections Under Federal and State Laws

Employees in New York are protected by numerous labor and civil rights laws, including:

  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – Prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, sex, and national origin
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Requires reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with disabilities
  • New York Labor Law – Covers wages, hours, and workplace protections
  • Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) – Establishes federal minimum wage and overtime rules
  • New York City Human Rights Law – Provides expansive protections against workplace discrimination and harassment

Greenberg Gross LLP leverages these laws and others to defend employee rights and hold employers accountable.

Why Choose Greenberg Gross LLP

Selecting an employment law firm with a record of success is essential. Greenberg Gross LLP offers client-focused, assertive advocacy informed by decades of combined experience. The firm understands the emotional and financial toll that workplace mistreatment causes, and is committed to achieving outcomes that support each client’s dignity, safety, and recovery.

With a well-established presence in New York City, the firm’s attorneys have extensive knowledge of local courts, administrative agencies, and legal processes. Their familiarity with both New York and New Jersey employment law enables them to provide comprehensive support in eligible cases.

Contact Greenberg Gross LLP

Seeking justice is not only about accountability—it’s also about rebuilding safety and fairness in the workplace. Greenberg Gross LLP is here to help you understand your rights, assess your legal options, and take decisive action.

Schedule a free initial consultation today. Your voice matters, and your rights deserve protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What qualifies as workplace discrimination in New York City?

Discrimination includes unfair treatment based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, or other protected categories. This may involve hiring bias, denial of promotions, unequal pay, or wrongful termination.

Can I sue for sexual harassment even if I didn’t report it immediately?

Yes. While reporting the behavior helps build documentation, you may still have a valid claim if the harassment created a hostile work environment or involved coercion or assault.

How do I prove wrongful termination?

You must demonstrate a connection between your termination and a protected activity (e.g., reporting harassment or requesting leave). Evidence may include emails, witness accounts, or suspicious timing.

What rights do independent contractors have?

If you're being misclassified as an independent contractor while performing the duties of a full employee, you may be entitled to unpaid wages or benefits under New York labor law.

What compensation can I receive for unpaid wages or wage theft?

You may be entitled to back pay, liquidated damages (up to double the amount owed), interest, and legal fees under federal and state wage laws.

How does the attorney-client relationship begin?

It starts with a free consultation, during which the firm evaluates the facts of your case and discusses your goals. Confidentiality applies from this first meeting.

What if my health condition affects my work?

Under the ADA and New York law, you are entitled to reasonable accommodations if your health condition qualifies as a disability.

Does Greenberg Gross LLP handle cases outside of New York City?

Yes. The firm represents clients throughout New York State and may consult on employment-related matters involving New Jersey law when appropriate.