Facing workplace issues can feel overwhelming, but your first step toward justice begins with a strong legal ally. Whether you’re dealing with discrimination, wrongful termination, or wage disputes, an employment law consultation clarifies your rights and legal options. Understanding what happens in this first meeting will help you come prepared and maximize its value.
At Smithey Law Group, our experienced employment attorneys guide employees through complex workplace disputes. With nationally recognized attorneys, including Joyce Smithey—an authority in Maryland employment law—we provide strategic legal advice tailored to your unique situation.
How Should I Prepare for My First Meeting with a Lawyer?
Preparation ensures that your meeting with a lawyer is efficient and productive. Before your consultation, gather and organize relevant documents, including:
- Employment contract—which outlines your rights and obligations;
- Company policies—employee handbooks or workplace policies can be critical in assessing employer misconduct;
- Communication records—emails, texts, or memos related to your claim strengthen your case;
- Pay stubs and benefits records—these are essential in wage and hour disputes; and
- Performance reviews and disciplinary notices—documents showing a pattern of discrimination or retaliation can support your claim.
Bringing these materials to your appointment allows your employment law consultation to focus on legal strategy rather than fact-gathering.
What Happens in an Initial Consultation?
Your first meeting with a lawyer is more than just a conversation—it’s a roadmap to resolution. During this session, you can expect the following to occur:
- Discussion of workplace issue. You will explain the details of your claim, such as what happened and who was involved, along with any information on how your employer responded to your issue. Your lawyer will also ask questions about the impact of your issue on your employment, income, and well-being to assess the legal strength of your case.
- Legal analysis and your rights. Your attorney will explain which Maryland employment laws are relevant to your case and if federal protections, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Fair Labor Standards Act, apply. There will also be an analysis of whether your case falls under discrimination, retaliation, wage theft, or wrongful termination.
- Explanation of legal options. The attorney will discuss the pros and cons of your options. These options can include negotiation with your employer through mediation, filing administrative complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, or the potential for litigation.
Following your first meeting, you should have a good sense of how your attorney plans to handle your case and what must be done to resolve your workplace issue.
What Questions Should I Ask My Employment Lawyer?
A legal consultation is your opportunity to gain insight. Some practical questions include:
- What Maryland employment laws apply to my case?
- What is the likelihood of success?
- How long does the legal process take?
- What are the potential costs and fees?
- What steps should I take next?
Asking these questions will give you a clearer picture of what to expect moving forward.
Why Is it Important to Have Legal Representation in Employment Cases?
While some workplace issues are resolved internally, many require legal intervention. A seasoned employment attorney helps by:
- Protecting you from retaliation—legal representation shields you from further mistreatment;
- Ensuring compliance with state and federal laws—a knowledgeable attorney ensures the correct handling of your claim; and
- Maximizing compensation—an attorney will fight for the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or litigation.
At Smithey Law Group, we focus exclusively on employment law, providing clients with unmatched legal acumen and advocacy.
Why Choose Smithey Law Group?
When choosing an employment lawyer, you need a firm with a proven track record. We stand out for the following reasons:
- Recognized experience. Ms. Smithey is a published authority on Maryland employment law and a sought-after speaker at legal conferences.
- We are award-winning attorneys. Our team has earned accolades such as Super Lawyers, the Lawdragon Award, and recognition in the Best Lawyers list.
- Exclusively employment-focus. Unlike general practice firms, we dedicate 100% of our work to labor and employment matters.
- We have national recognition. We’ve been featured in major media outlets, including MSNBC, U.S. News & World Report, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.
Our commitment to justice and a focus on employment law uniquely positions our firm to advocate for employees and ensure the best possible outcomes for their cases.
Take the First Step: Schedule Your Employment Law Consultation Today
Understanding your rights is the first step in protecting them. Smithey Law Group is ready to help if you’re facing workplace injustice. Our experienced employment attorneys offer confidential consultations to discuss your case and explore legal options. Call us today or visit our website to schedule your consultation and take control of your future.
