Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Zeff Law Firm, LLC ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [NJ Family Leave Act Expansion: Do You Now Qualify for Job-Protected Leave?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/nj-family-leave-act-expansion-do-you-qualify/): Talk to an Employment Lawyer Today - [Can Being Pregnant Lose You a Job? Understanding Your Rights in the Workplace](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/can-you-lose-your-job-by-getting-pregnant/): Pregnancy is an exciting new chapter in anyone’s life. However, navigating the myriad of rules and rights governing job security can create much unnecessary stress through this period of significant personal change. The joys of bringing a child into the world can quickly be brought to a halt by the concerns of losing your job or facing discriminatory actions due to your pregnancy. - [How do you Prove Wrongful Termination in NJ?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-do-you-prove-wrongful-termination-in-mt-laurel-nj/): In New Jersey, it is considered wrongful termination when an employee is dismissed, laid off, fired, or otherwise terminated for an illegal reason, such as discrimination. Those who are wrongfully terminated in New Jersey have the legal right to sue their former employers on grounds that their termination violated both federal and New Jersey state laws. - [How Are Severance Packages Taxed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-severance-packages-are-taxed-in-nj-and-pa/): In post-employment financial planning, it’s important to understand how the taxation on severance packages works. Severance pay is deemed as taxable income at both the state and federal levels. For residents of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, there exists variations in how severance pay is taxed.  - [What Constitutes A Hostile Work Environment?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/what-conditions-legally-qualify-as-a-hostile-work-environment/): According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a hostile work environment can occur when harassment is so severe or frequent, that a reasonable person in the employee’s position would find the situation to be abusive. If you’ve felt threatened, harassed, or constantly intimidated at work, then you may be working in a hostile work environment, and may have legal recourse.  Harassment is unwelcome conduct that is based on race, religion, color, sex (including sexual orientation, transgender status or pregnancy), national origin, age or disability.  Recent findings indicate that workplace safety and well-being is declining, emphasizing the importance of addressing work conditions to foster a healthier and more supportive environment. - [Why Shouldn’t You Trust AI for Legal Advice?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/why-you-cant-trust-ai-for-legal-advice/): Reviewed and updated on March 04, 2026 - [What’s a Normal Amount of Severance Pay? A Guide for Employees](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/whats-a-normal-amount-of-severance-pay/): Often when an employee loses their job due to instances such as layoffs, downsizing, restructuring, or a specific agreed-upon circumstance, employers may offer a severance package. A typical severance package is a set of benefits and compensation that typically include a financial payment, extension of health benefits, and possibly outplacement services to assist in finding new employment. While severance packages vary by employer and situation, this guide breaks down what’s typically included and what you can realistically expect when it comes to a normal amount of severance pay, benefits, and support. - [Tips for Negotiating a Stronger Severance Package](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/negotiate-better-severance-package/): Negotiating a stronger severance package can be a daunting task for individuals, especially when facing financial uncertainty. Understanding all the nuances and complexities that may account for negotiating a fair and equitable severance package often require expert employment law attorneys to protect both your rights and your own interests. If you are faced with negotiating the terms of a potential severance package, here are some essential tips to utilize. - [How Can Scaling Back DEI Initiatives Lead to Discrimination Claims?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-can-scaling-back-dei-initiatives-lead-to-discrimination-claims/): Since the Supreme Court’s decision in the Students for Fair Admission (SFFA) v. Harvard in June 2023 and the latest executive order from the White House on Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing enacted on January 20, 2025, a significant influx of anti-DEI lawsuits appeared in the courts. Many companies have cited political pressure, economic uncertainty, and rising costs as the driving force to eradicate their DEI initiatives to potentially minimize the risk of litigation. While others fear such actions may have the opposite effect. - [What Is Undue Hardship in Religious Accommodation?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/undue-hardship-religious-accommodations-key-facts/): Since the ratification of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers are prohibited from discriminating against individuals. An individual’s religious observance and practice is protected by Title VII. However, according to the law, 42 U.S.C. 2000e(j), “an employee’s or prospective employee’s religious observance or practice without undue hardship on the conduct of the employer’s business.” The issue of contention at the center of the law is what constitutes undue hardship for the employer. Religious accommodation undue hardship has been based on the de minimis cost standard since the ruling in Trans World Airlines, Inc. v. Hardison in 1977. In the context of religious accommodation undue hardship, de minimis cost is defined as the cost to the employer from an employee’s request for religious accommodation. - [What is Police Brutality, Misconduct, and Excessive Force?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/what-is-police-brutality/): If law enforcement officers, whose primary responsibility is to protect and serve, violate your civil rights or commit illegal acts against you, you may have been a victim of police brutality, misconduct, or excessive force. If you believe you have been a victim of police brutality, it is essential to understand your rights and constitutional protection. - [Workplace and Employment Law Trends for 2025](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/employment-law-trends/): As we head into 2025, employment law trends are continuing to evolve in response to technological advancements, societal shifts, and changing employee expectations. These changes can have a significant impact on your rights and protections in the workplace. Understanding these trends is crucial for all employees to ensure their rights are protected and to navigate the complexities of the modern employment landscape. - [HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR CIVIL RIGHTS HAVE BEEN VIOLATED](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-to-recognize-a-civil-rights-violation/): Understanding whether your civil rights have been violated is essential to protecting your freedoms and seeking justice. Civil rights violations occur when someone is denied fair treatment based on race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics. Recognizing the signs of a violation can help you take appropriate legal action to defend your rights. - [Benefits of An Employment Contract Review From A Lawyer](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/employment-contract-review-benefits/): Having a lawyer review your employment contract allows a thorough examination of the terms and conditions outlined between the employer and employee. A lawyer review covers everything from salary and job responsibilities to working hours and benefits. It’s also good to check what happens if either you or the company decides to end employment. - [What Are the Benefits of Employment Law and How Does It Protect Workers’ Rights?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/what-are-the-benefits-of-employment-law/): Employment law is a broad area of law that at its core is designed to regulate the actions of employers and employees, as well as provide protection for both parties. The relationship between employers and employees can be complex, from ensuring employees have the appropriate benefits, to ensuring that individuals feel safe and bringing some balance to the power differential between management and support staff. - [New Jersey’s Temporary Workers’ Bill of Rights](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/new-jerseys-temporary-workers-bill-of-rights/): New Jersey’s Temporary Workers’ Bill of Rights was enacted to address systemic issues that temporary workers face, including wage theft, lack of benefits, and poor working conditions. Temporary workers are often hired through staffing agencies for short-term or project-based employment. Unfortunately, temporary workers have been susceptible to exploitation.  - [The FTC ban on non compete agreements](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/the-ftc-ban-on-non-compete-agreements/): In April, the Federal Trade Commission made an unprecedented move to ban non compete agreements. The move, driven by the desire to create a more dynamic American economy, will protect workers when changing jobs and create a new paradigm by stimulating new business formations and new ideas into the market. Non compete agreements place restrictions on workers that prevent them from taking new jobs or starting their own businesses. These obtrusive measures have left many workers forced to stay in jobs where they are exploited and employers can capitalize on such unfair methods of competition, directly in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act. - [What to Do If Your Employer Denies Your PTO rights](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/what-to-do-if-your-employer-denies-your-pto-rights/): Reviewed and updated on March 04 , 2026 - [What Employees and Employers Need to Know About Medical Marijuana in the Workplace](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/accommodations-for-medical-marijuana-usage-in-the-workplace/): While many employers have policies that prohibit the use of marijuana, many states have laws saying that employers must allow employees with a medical marijuana prescription to use medical marijuana if it qualifies as a reasonable accommodation, or face charges of disability discrimination. - [Defining Disability Discrimination](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/defining-disability-discrimination/): According to the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), in order for disability discrimination in the workplace to be established, a situation must meet the following qualifications:  - [Pregnancy Discrimination is Often the Most Overt Form of Workplace Discrimination](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/pregnancy-discrimination/): It has been more than 40 years since the Pregnancy Discrimination Act was signed into law, yet this is still the most overt form of discrimination in the workplace.  Pregnancy discrimination is the unfair treatment, disadvantage, or exclusion of an employee solely due to their pregnancy and it is illegal.  Firing pregnant employees and denying accommodations and leave time are two of the most blatant and common acts of discrimination during pregnancy. The pervasiveness of pregnancy discrimination is alarming especially for women of color and low-income pregnant employees. While many advocacy groups are calling for more action in the form of federal legislation and methods of enforcement, it is essential to know your rights in the event you experience this form of discrimination. - [Reasons to Hire an Employment Lawyer](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/reasons-to-hire-an-employment-lawyer/): Navigating employment law can be a daunting task, especially when an employer has committed an act of wrongful termination. Hiring an employment lawyer can be your best asset when fighting an unfair dismissal infraction by your employer. An employment lawyer will be able to assess your case and examine the actions of the employer if they have violated your rights in terms of the Equal Pay Act, Pregnancy Discrimination Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, or a host of other laws. There is a great deal of complexity in employment regulations at both the state and federal level. An employment attorney can help determine if you have a case and look for evidence to help you establish a strong case for wrongful termination, such as: - [How to Know If Your Firing Was Considered Wrongful Termination in Pennsylvania](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-to-know-if-youve-been-wrongfully-terminated/): Did your employer fire you for a legitimate, performance-based reason, or were you the victim of an unlawful action? According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the definition of wrongful termination is being fired in violation of federal anti-discrimination laws or for reasons that violate public policy (such as refusing to commit an illegal act or reporting a safety violation). If your firing involved discrimination based on a protected characteristic (like race, age, or disability) or was an act of retaliation, you might have a case. - [How To Recognize FMLA Violations By Employers](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-to-recognize-fmla-violations-by-employers/): FMLA violations occur when employers fail to provide and comply with these regulations. This law prohibits employers from also retaliating or interfering with employees seeking or using a leave of absence that meet FMLA qualifications. If your rights through FMLA have been violated by your employer, you have the right to file a retaliation or interference claim against them and seek compensation for the damages that were incurred during this time. Contact Zeff Law Firm to discuss your legal options. - [Racial Bias and Discrimination in the Hiring Process](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/racial-bias-and-discrimination-in-the-hiring-process/): Unfortunately, racial bias and discrimination does occur during the hiring process. Systematic racism is all too common in several aspects in the process of hiring employees. Firstly, job postings and the wording used to advertise these positions can be subjected to bias. Certain verbiage can deter minorities from applying for these positions. In addition, screening resumes can be tainted by racial bias as ethnic names and post-secondary attendance at historically black universities can diminish the applicant’s chances of being hired. Attempts by employers to objectively select the most qualified candidate when it comes to selecting a nonwhite candidate or hiring an individual that is considered a culture fit are fallacies that perpetuate bias in the hiring process. - [Rothman Institute surgeon wins Gender Discrimination Case](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/rothman-institute-surgeon-wins-gender-discrimination-case/): Following an incident stemming from an annual party he hosted at his home, Dr. John Abraham was forced by a resident physician to consume excessive amounts of alcohol and was sexually assaulted. Abraham and his legal counsel argued that he was the victim of sexual assault in the incident and that Thomas Jefferson University failed to act on his complaint and furthermore, conducted what was an allegedly gender-biased investigation into the allegations that Abraham had raped the former resident physician. The lawsuit stated that Jefferson violated Title IX that states that academic institutions that receive federal funds are required to maintain an educational environment free from sex discrimination, including sexual assault. Following a four-day trial, a jury took only an hour to find in Abraham’s behalf, citing that Jefferson had violated his civil rights and intentionally disrupted his ability to earn income with Rothman Orthopedic Institute. The jury awarded Abraham $15 million dollars. - [The Different Types of Discrimination](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/the-different-types-of-discrimination-in-the-workplace/): Workplace discrimination occurs when a person experiences disparate treatment at their place of employment because of certain protected characteristics. Put differently, an employer cannot treat employees differently because of (among other things) the color of their skin, because they are aged 40 or older, or because of their gender. Workplace discrimination can take many forms: You can be discriminated against by your boss, your coworkers, or by the owners of the company you work for. It can consist of perpetual harassment, a feeling that you are the target of discipline when it is unwarranted, or a sense that you are not being treated equally amongst your coworkers. Discrimination is a complex area of the law that requires a knowledgeable workplace discrimination attorney to navigate. But with someone on your side to guide you, you can seek justice for the wrongful discrimination you have experienced. - [Reasonable Accommodations for Pregnant Employees](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/reasonable-accommodations-for-pregnant-employees/): The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) is a recent legislation that requires employers with 15 employees or more to provide an employee reasonable accommodations for known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or other related medical conditions. The sole implementation of the PWFA is to ensure that these accommodations are secured. The PWFA works in conjunction with previous laws enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commision (EEOC) to outlaw the discrimination of workers based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical issues. - [What Is Gender Discrimination In The Workplace?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/what-is-gender-discrimination-in-the-workplace/): Gender discrimination in the workplace occurs when an employee is subjected to unfair treatment based on their gender. There are two federal laws protecting employees from gender discrimination: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Pay Act. Most states also have statutes in place that define and prohibit gender discrimination. Discrimination in the workplace can be categorized into two types of offenses. The first is work and salary decisions being determined or made on the basis of employee gender. The second is harassment based on gender differences in the workplace. Gender discrimination limits the manner that employees identify and express themselves, and frequently they are subjected to sexism, stereotyping, or prejudice. - [How Do You Prove Religious Discrimination in the Workplace?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-to-prove-religious-discrimination-in-the-workplace/): To prove religious discrimination in the workplace, you must provide evidence that you were subjected to adverse treatment, such as termination, harassment, or denial of promotion, specifically due to your religious beliefs or an employer's failure to provide reasonable accommodations. This is typically achieved through direct evidence (explicit bias) or circumstantial evidence (disparate treatment compared to others), while demonstrating that your religious sincerity is genuine and that requested accommodations did not pose an "undue hardship" on the business. - [The Hostile Work Environment Case Against Lizzo](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/the-hostile-work-environment-case-against-lizzo/): The former dancers filed a total of nine charges against Lizzo, her production company, and the dance captain. During a span of two years, the dancers allege that they experienced weight shaming, were forced to endure sexual denigrating behavior, were preached to about sexuality and Christianity, and were pressured into participating in disturbing sex shows, according to a statement from the plaintiffs’ lawyers. The lawsuit also claims that Lizzo and members of her team further created an unbearable and hostile work environment by frequently sharing lewd fantasies of sexual encounters, exposing the dancers to nudity against their will, and forcing them to touch nude performers, and pressuring the dancers to engage in a nude photoshoot. Lizzo’s management company is also being accused of discriminating against the Black members of the dance team in both pay and treatment. - [How Do You Prove Disability Discrimination in the Workplace?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/how-to-prove-disability-discrimination-in-the-workplace/): To prove disability discrimination in the workplace, you must demonstrate that you are a qualified individual with a physical or mental impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and were subjected to adverse treatment or denied a reasonable accommodation. Success in these cases relies on maintaining a meticulous "paper trail", including a chronological log of discriminatory incidents, copies of electronic communications, and a list of witnesses, in order to show that your disability was the motivating factor behind unfair employment decisions. - [Were you the Victim of Illegal Termination?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/were-you-the-victim-of-illegal-termination/): Illegal termination occurs when a company fires an employee for any number of illegal reasons. Illegal termination is an important employment law that can be breached at the federal, state, or local levels. In an at-will state, an employer can terminate an employee at any time, for any reason, with the exception of illegal reasons. Under the at-will rule, employees are also able to leave their job without legal ramifications as well. The at-will rule enables employers to alter terms of employment, such as wages and benefits, without notice or cause. - [The Request for Accommodations Process](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/the-request-for-accommodations-process/): The request for accommodations is a process that falls under the guidance of the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and Title 1 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During this process, the employer and the employee should work together to find a reasonable accommodation. According to the ADA, the requesting accommodation from an employer must be considered on a case-by-case basis. The employee or representative working on behalf of the employee making the request must disclose the nature of the disability as employers are only required to accommodate the particular disability that they are aware of. The process of requesting an accommodation begins with the employee disclosing the disability with the employer. - [Intersectional Discrimination in the Workplace](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/intersectional-discrimination-in-the-workplace/): Since its inception in 2010, the Equality Act has ensured that employers protect their workers with disabilities from harassment, exclusion, and victimization. Adding to that, a relatively new concept called intersectional discrimination has recently become broadly accepted. Intersectional discrimination is best defined as a distinct and specific form of discrimination that occurs when at least two grounds of discrimination operate and interact concurrently. In essence, intersectional discrimination falls under the umbrella of multiple discrimination. - [International Women’s Day: Raising Awareness of Gender Discrimination](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/international-womens-day-raising-awareness-of-gender-discrimination/): Unfortunately, gender discrimination at work is still quite pervasive throughout the United States. It can come in many forms, but the important thing to remember is that regardless of how it manifests itself, it is against the law for your employer to allow or permit such discrimination to occur. Some examples of gender discrimination at work can include harassing an individual on the basis of their gender, denying an individual employment benefits or employment opportunities based on their gender, or allowing or engaging in sexual harassment based on an individual's gender. While these are some examples of gender discrimination, this list is by no means an exhaustive one. A gender discrimination lawyer can help you determine if your personal situation constitutes gender discrimination in the workplace. - [Is It Worth Having a Lawyer Review Your Severance Package Agreement?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/why-it-is-worth-having-a-lawyer-review-your-severance-package-agreement/): Reviewed and updated on March 04, 2026 - [Employment law for small businesses](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/employment-law-for-small-businesses/): Running a small business is complicated, but it can be even more complicated trying to stay compliant with all of the laws out there that regulate small businesses. This article gives a brief glimpse into the laws that regulate small businesses. If you have questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the small business employment law attorneys at Zeff Law Firm for more guidance. - [Employee Rights Everyone Should Know](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/employee-rights-everyone-should-know/): Americans are entitled to several basic employee rights related to their employment. While there are some variations state to state, employee rights can be broken down into ten categories: - [The State of Pregnancy Discrimination in America](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/the-state-of-pregnancy-discrimination-in-america/): Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer takes a negative action against an employee because of pregnancy or denies reasonable accommodations during the pregnancy. Pregnancy discrimination can take a variety of forms. For example, an employer cannot refuse to hire or promote a pregnant person because they know that the soon-to-be mother will soon be entitled to maternity leave. Similarly, employers must respect requests for reasonable accommodations if such accommodations would allow the employee to perform job duties without disrupting the overall functioning of the company’s operations. For example, a pregnant cashier should be able to request a place to sit on during a shift because such an accommodation would allow that employee to continue performing the duties of the job, and would not be too disruptive to the store’s operations. There are many instances that could qualify as pregnancy discrimination. If you believe you have been discriminated against due to your pregnancy status, reach out to a pregnancy discrimination attorney. - [Human resources investigations into employee complaints](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/human-resources-investigations-into-employee-complaints/): Your workplace should always feel like a safe place. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. It's not uncommon for employees to feel uncomfortable or upset with their work environment. Many businesses have an HR department to help employees work through these issues or resolve conflicts, but sometimes it might be difficult knowing when it’s the right time to finally ask a company representative for help filing an official HR complaint. If you have merely had a disagreement with a coworker, or you simply dislike a colleague, this alone may not be grounds for involving an HR representative. However, there are some clear-cut circumstances in which you should always ask for HR assistance: - [Remote Work and Increasing Cases of Sexual Harassment](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/remote-work-and-increasing-cases-of-sexual-harassment/): When the pandemic initially hit in the spring of 2020, many businesses across the country transitioned to working from home. Over two years later, many companies have maintained this practice and no longer require employees to come to the office. Surprisingly, however, despite the fact that many employees no longer see their supervisors or colleagues face-to-face anymore (or far less often), reports of ‘virtual’ sexual harassment have skyrocketed. It is important to know that this behavior, even if not in person, is unacceptable and you should not have to deal with it – even while working from home. In this article, we discuss what constitutes as online or virtual sexual harassment, and what you can do to address it. - [Employment Law Issues Surrounding Remote Work](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/employment-law-issues-surrounding-remote-work/): For many, remote work has been a positive change that allows for more flexibility with families, reduces the costs associated with commuting, and relieves stress of working in an office environment. At the same time, however, the great shift toward remote work since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has brought about a number of changes and adjustments to employment law that many employers are still getting used to. In short, most of the same basic principles of employment law apply; employers are still required to treat their employees fairly and offer the minimum state required benefits. However, some of these laws can be interpreted differently when it comes to remote workers. In this article, we’ll cover some of the different ways remote work affects employment law. - [District Court Upholds Constitutionality of FOSTA; Sex Workers Vow to Appeal](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/district-court-upholds-constitutionality-of-fosta/): By Derek J. Demeri, Esq. - [Justice Breyer’s Employment Law Legacy](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/justice-breyers-employment-law-legacy/): Justice Breyer announced his intention to retire from the Supreme Court bench this summer. Though every Justice who serves on the Supreme Court leaves some sort of legacy on our legal system and the interpretation of the laws of our nation, there is no denying that Justice Breyer’s contributions dramatically changed employment law. In this article, we take a look at the impact Justice Breyer had on employment law. - [Trenton Police Department Shoots Unarmed Black Man](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/trenton-police-department-shoots-unarmed-black-man/): On Wednesday, March 16, 2022, Zeff Law Firm, LLC, with the support of the NAACP-NJ State Conference, filed a lawsuit on behalf of Jajuan R. Henderson against the City of Trenton, Trenton Police Department Director Steve Wilson, and several unidentified police officers. This case involves a case of police brutality in which a police-involved shooting left a twenty-nine-year-old Black man paralyzed from the chest down after a far from routine “traffic stop.” Just after midnight on February 12, 2022 in Trenton, New Jersey, Jajuan went to retrieve some iced tea from a car parallel parked outside of a home he was visiting. In the middle of the night, Jajuan sat lawfully parked in a car with the engine turned off when an unidentified dark car approached and parked next to him, boxing him in. A group of men, fully masked and in dark plain clothes, then jumped out of this mysterious vehicle and began yelling at Jajuan. As many others would do in this escalating situation, Jajuan used his cell phone to call for support. - [Philadelphia’s New Marijuana Law Explained](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/philadelphias-new-marijuana-law-explained/): The new Philadelphia ordinance is an interesting milestone in Philadelphia marijuana law. In short, the new law makes it unlawful for an employer (including employment agencies or labor organizations) to require prospective employees to submit marijuana testing as a condition of employment. The law is only limited to marijuana testing. Therefore, employers are still allowed to test prospective employees for other narcotics, and condition employment on the individual’s ability to pass those tests. - [Holiday and End of Year Employment Law Issues](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/holiday-and-end-of-year-employment-law-issues/): For many people, the end of the year is meant to be a time to celebrate the year, celebrate the holiday season, and spend time with our closest friends and family to acknowledge important religious traditions. However, our jobs can sometimes get in the way of enjoying time off. For this reason, it is important to understand your rights as an employee and how that intersects with end-of-the-year religious and federal holidays. In this article, we include everything you need to know about legal holidays, religious holidays, and the workplace. - [Federal Court Holds Discrimination Against Sex Workers is Sex Discrimination](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/federal-court-holds-discrimination-against-sex-workers/): In a landmark case, Magistrate Judge Mustafa T. Kasubhai sitting for the District of Oregon held at the summary judgment stage in Gililland v. Southwestern Oregon Community College, et al. that a nursing student who was discriminated against because she was a former adult film performer is sex discrimination prohibited under Title IX. This ruling is a historic victory for sex worker rights and will likely be expanded upon in years to come. - [Protection from the Law for the Facebook Whistleblower?](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/protection-from-the-law-for-the-facebook-whistleblower/): A whistleblower is someone, typically an employee, who works to expose activities and information held within a company that are illicit, illegal, or unsafe in nature. This can be at a private company, a public institution, or even a government agency or organization. Oftentimes, the actions impact the wellbeing and financial stability of the public, take advantage of certain circumstances, or endanger the safety of the public. Being a whistleblower often involves the individual taking private documents from the organization to then share publicly, which sometimes leads to repercussions against them for their choice. ## Pages - [Executive Employment Attorney Serving Pennsylvania & New Jersey](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/executive-employment-attorney/): Executives and leadership professionals often face high-stakes employment disputes involving executive contracts, severance agreements, compensation packages, restrictive covenants, and wrongful termination claims. At Zeff Law Firm, our executive employment attorneys represent CEOs, CFOs, corporate officers, managing directors, and other C-suite employees throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey in executive employment contract negotiations, severance package reviews, executive compensation disputes, retaliation claims, and executive separation matters. - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/terms-and-conditions/): Consent to receive SMS messages is collected when a user provides their mobile phone number and affirmatively agrees by checking the box on our online contact form. Consent to receive SMS messages is not a condition for receiving legal services. We send SMS messages only to users who have expressly opted in to receive them. Messages may include responses to inquiries, case-related communications, and service-related updates. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. You can opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time by replying STOP to the number from which you received the message. For help, reply HELP and we will contact you. Operators are not responsible for delayed or undelivered messages. - [Michele McKnight](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/about-us/michele-mcknight/): Michele McKnight is an Associate at Zeff Law Firm. She began her legal career with Zeff Law Firm as a law clerk while attending Rutgers Law School and has since grown into her current role as an attorney. Through her years with the firm, she has developed extensive experience in employment discrimination, civil rights, and constitutional law. Michele assists in representing clients in both state and federal courts, handling cases involving workplace discrimination, retaliation, and violations of constitutional protections. Her time at Zeff Law Firm has allowed her to deepen her understanding of the complexities of workplace rights and government accountability while advocating for individuals whose civil rights have been violated. - [Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Discrimination Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-gender-lgbt-discrimination-lawyer/): Sexual orientation discrimination is when an employee is faced with negative comments, criticism, harassment, employment action, and/or denial of employment benefits based on their sexual orientation. Although sexual orientation laws have existed for years, many workers who do not identify with heterosexual relationships still are subject to sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace. - [COVID-19 Employment Law Consultation for Small Business – Zeff Law Firm](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/coronavirus-employment-law-advice-for-small-business/): * After submitting your $59.99 payment via PayPal, you will be contacted via email to schedule a time for your COVID19 legal telephone consultation. Please include a preferred time, at least one day in advance, with a time zone. If you need immediate COVID19 legal assistance, contact us. - [Age Discrimination Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-age-discrimination-lawyer/): The purpose of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”) is to promote employment of older persons based on their ability rather than age; to prohibit arbitrary age discrimination in employment; and to help employers and workers find ways of meeting problems arising from the impact of age on employment. To learn more about employment laws, contact our Mt Laurel Employment age discrimination lawyers today. - [Disability Discrimination Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-disability-discrimination-lawyer/): The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) prevents public and private employers from discriminating against an employee because of his or her disability. Find out more about your rights when you speak with our disability discrimination attorneys in Philadelphia or Mount Laurel. If you feel your ADA rights may have been violated anywhere in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, or if you would like to ask about your rights under the ADA, please contact our offices immediately and discuss with our New Jersey or Pennsylvania disability discrimination lawyers to defend your legal rights. - [Experienced Wrongful Termination Attorney in NJ And PA](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/wrongful-termination-lawyer/): OUR Wrongful Termination Attorneys Are Ready to Fight for You - [Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/family-medical-leave-act-lawyer/): This law applies to all public agencies, public and private elementary and secondary schools, and companies with 50 or more employees. However, not all employers comply with the FMLA regulations, which is where an FMLA lawyer in PA and NJ can make a critical difference. To learn more, reach out to our FMLA lawyers today. - [Employment Contract Review](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-contract-severance-package-lawyer/): Facing a job separation is stressful, and the last thing you want is to sign away your rights or leave money on the table. If you've been presented with an employment contract or severance agreement, trust the lawyers at Zeff Law Firm to ensure the terms are fair and that you maximize your financial returns. - [Philadelphia Whistleblower Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-whistleblower-lawyer/): Both the Pennsylvania Whistleblower Act and the Conscientious Employee Protection Act in New Jersey protect employees who report instances of wrongdoing. The laws prevent employers from retaliating against employees who report instances of unlawful activity or wrongdoing on the part of their employer. If you feel your CEPA or whistleblower rights may have been violated anywhere in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, or if you would like to ask about your rights under the CEPA or Whistleblower Act, please contact our offices immediately to speak with a Philadelphia employment whistleblower attorney. - [Sexual Harassment](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-sexual-harassment-lawyer/): Advocating Employees in Pennsylvania and New Jersey - [Philadelphia Hostile Work Environment Lawyer – Zeff Law Firm](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/hostile-work-environment-lawyer/): Unfortunately, not every employee feels safe and comfortable at their place of work. In fact, studies predict that roughly 20% of workers have been exposed to hostility in the workplace. What many workers do not know is that they have the right to work in a professional, harassment-free space, and they have options for recourse when that is not the case. The hostile work environment attorneys at Zeff Law Firm, LLC in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, and Philadelphia will represent you if you are the victim of a hostile work environment. - [Religious Discrimination Attorney- Zeff Law Firm](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-religious-discrimination-lawyer/): Title VII protects employees from adverse treatment in the workplace targeting their religious beliefs. According to the law, an employer may not force or forbid an employee to participate in religious activity as a condition of employment. If you face harassment or discrimination at work as a result of your religious beliefs, contact Zeff Law Firm to discuss your situation with our creed and religious discrimination attorneys in Philadelphia and Mount Laurel, New Jersey. - [Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney – Zeff Law Firm](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-pregnancy-discrimination-lawyer/): Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a pregnant employee unfavorably due to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act covers both employees and job applicants. If you have been treated unfavorably as a result of your pregnancy, call Zeff Law Firm. Our pregnancy discrimination lawyers in Mt Laurel and Philadelphia understand that you depend on your job and work to protect the rights of every client. - [National Origin](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/national-origin-discrimination-lawyer/): National origin discrimination occurs when an individual is discriminated against based on the country they or their ancestors came from. At Zeff Law Firm, we represent clients in such discrimination cases. Our national origin discrimination lawyers in Philadelphia and Mt Laurel, New Jersey help clients facing discrimination to fight for their rights and protect their interests. - [Sex and Gender Discrimination Attorney](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-gender-discrimination-lawyer/): In the US, there are two federal laws that prohibit sex discrimination. The first is Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. This law prohibits employers from treating an employee differently or less favorably because of a number of arbitrary characteristics, including an employee’s sex. Title VII also makes it illegal for employers to treat employees differently because of sexual orientation or gender identity. It also prohibits employers from taking negative employment actions because an employee is pregnant or because of certain traits and stereotypes about genders. If this has happened to you, contact the sex discrimination lawyers at Zeff Law Firm for a free consultation. - [Race](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-race-discrimination-lawyer/): Workplace race discrimination is a phrase used to describe any negative experience imposed upon an employee by either their supervisor or by fellow colleagues due to his or her race. There are many obvious forms of workplace race discrimination, including instances where an individual is denied the same benefits or same pay as other employees because of their race. Other examples include repeated denial of raises, promotions or other opportunities to advance in the workplace, when other less qualitied individuals of a different race have received such benefits. However, there are more subtle forms of workplace race discrimination that a race discrimination attorney can help you identify. For example, if you have been subjected to repeated verbal harassment that is race-based or race related, you may also have a case for race workplace discrimination. Remember, workplace discrimination does not have to originate from your boss or supervisor – a colleague who makes racial slurs or directs racist comments at you also violates workplace racial discrimination laws. - [Employment Discrimination Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-discrimination-lawyer/): Unfortunately, discrimination in the workplace is alive and well even in the 21st century. Many times, workplace discrimination today exists in more subtle forms, although it is just as harmful. When your employer discriminates against you based on your race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, your employer is violating federal and state laws. At Zeff Law Firm, we have experienced employment discrimination lawyers in Philadelphia to advocate for your rights. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/privacy-policy/): Service is the https://www.zefflawfirm.com/ website operated by Zeff Law Firm, LLC - [Site Map](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/site-map/): All Consultations are Free and Confidential - [Contact Us](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/contact-us/): Get in Touch - [Case Results](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/case-results/): $138,000.00 - [Insights](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/insights/): All Consultations are Free and Confidential - [FAQ](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/faq/): At Zeff Law Firm, our lawyers represent clients in employment law and civil rights cases. While our firm offers free, no-obligation consultations, we have found that many of our clients ask similar questions. Here you will find answers to some questions you may have about discrimination and employment law. - [School Bullying](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/school-bullying-lawyer/): School is intended to be a safe place for students to obtain the education they need and deserve. Unfortunately, thousands of children are ridiculed or bullied every day. The New Jersey Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights (P.L. 2010, Chapter 122) protects all students from all types of bullying. This includes bullying that takes place in or on school facilities, outside of educational locations, and cyberbullying. If your child is a victim of bullying in school, speak with a school bullying attorney by contacting Zeff Law Firm. We have represented clients in the area for more than two decades. - [Sexual Abuse](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/sexual-abuse-lawyer/): There has been intense media scrutiny regarding stories of sexual abuse within Penn State, Michigan State, various Religious groups, the Boy Scouts and other organizations. If you have been the victim of sexual abuse at a school, university, or religious organization, contact Zeff Law Firm to get advice from an experienced sexual abuse attorney in Philadelphia and Mount Laurel. - [Police Brutality](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/police-brutality-lawyer/): At Zeff Law Firm, our police brutality attorneys represent clients across Philadelphia and New Jersey, holding law enforcement accountable and fighting to recover maximum compensation for civil rights violations. - [Civil Rights Law](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/civil-rights-attorneys-philadelphia/): We Will Represent You - [Employment Attorney](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/employment-lawyer/): Over 30 Years Of Employment Law Experience In PA & NJ - [Practice Areas](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/practice-areas/): At Zeff Law Firm, we are committed to every client we take. We have earned a reputation as aggressive and trustworthy Philadelphia and New Jersey lawyers. When you are facing discrimination or other mistreatment at work, or you have been mistreated by law enforcement or the government, call our team for a free consultation about how you can begin moving forward with your case. - [In the News](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/about-us/in-the-news/): All Consultations are Free and Confidential - [Eva Zelson](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/about-us/eva-zelson/): Eva Zelson joined Zeff Law Firm in 2016. She focuses her practice on complex employment discrimination and civil rights matters. She litigates cases involving sexual harassment, racial discrimination, disability discrimination, age discrimination, LGBT+ discrimination, religious discrimination, constitutional rights, police misconduct, school bullying, whistleblower protections and much more. Eva advocates on behalf of victims of discrimination and harassment in coordination with racial justice organizations including the NAACP. She is also a Board Member of Workplace Fairness, an organization devoted to protecting the rights of workers. - [Gregg L. Zeff](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/about-us/gregg-l-zeff/): Gregg L. Zeff is the sole shareholder of the Zeff Law Firm, LLC. As a graduate of Delaware Law School of Widener University, he has earned a reputation in New Jersey as an experienced, aggressive representative who is there for his clients when they need support. When you face unlawful treatment you can trust Zeff Law Firm to help you fully understand the legal options you have available for your case. - [About Us](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/about-us/): Various laws apply to discrimination in the workplace, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Family Medical Leave Act, Employee Retirement Income Security Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act, New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, Pennsylvania Human Rights Act, Conscientious Employee Protection Act, and Pennsylvania Whistleblower Act. If you have an employment law dispute, it is helpful to hire an attorney with specific knowledge and experience in this area. - [Home](https://www.zefflawfirm.com/): Advocating for You