When to Hire an Unemployment Lawyer

Losing your job is hard enough. Your lack of income hurts not only your pride, but also your bottom line. While it may seem counterintuitive to pay an unemployment attorney when you’re already low on cash, it could actually be a great decision.

Unemployment paperwork may seem very simple and straightforward. In some states, you can even do your paperwork online. While each state requires different information, all states require basic information such as name, date of birth, and employment history. You also have to give a reason for your unemployment. If you have been unemployed through no fault of your own, the state will quickly process the form and you should start receiving your benefits within a few weeks. However, there are several reasons why you may want to contact an unemployment attorney in order to access your benefits.

Your benefits are improperly denied

If you have already been denied benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision. You must file your appeal in writing and then attend a hearing. You may be able to telephone the hearing, but your presence is still the only way the state can hear your side. An attorney can help you prepare all the documents for the hearing. Properly prepared documents can make the difference between winning or losing your appeal.

you were fired

Unemployment is for those who are out of work through no fault of their own. That means if you leave voluntarily or if you were fired for a serious reason, you won’t be eligible. To determine if your reasons for leaving a job qualify you for benefits, you must complete paperwork and attend a hearing. How your data is presented to the panel will determine whether or not you can receive benefits. Your unemployment attorney can help you fill out the paperwork properly and present your case effectively to help you gain access to the benefits you need.

You have legal claims against your former employer

There are times when you may have a legal claim against the employer who fired you from your job. If this employer has violated your legal rights, an attorney can help you file a lawsuit against him or her. Some examples include being fired based on race, gender, or sexual orientation. Other reasons to file a lawsuit against your former employer may include being fired for reporting health and safety code violations to the proper authorities. An unemployment attorney can analyze the facts of her case and determine if she has enough evidence to proceed with a lawsuit against a former employer. If the case is good, an attorney can not only help her apply for state benefits, but can also help her prepare for any other civil lawsuits she may want to file against the company.