Employment Law

No matter what you do for a living, your job and the stability and income it provides are important to you and your family. For many Coloradans, discrimination, harassment, unsafe working conditions and a variety of other factors result in unlawful termination, injuries and other issues that strip away the sense of pride and security your job provides. In addition, negligence and discrimination on the part of employers and co-workers violate state and federal employment laws.

Why We Fight

We believe in leveling the playing field for wronged employees. As attorneys protecting employee rights, Patrick & Knoebel strives to help people understand that they don't have to live with discrimination, harassment or unsafe conditions in the workplace. By working one-on-one with each client, we listen to their concerns, use our networks and resources to gather evidence and offer support, all while building a strong case to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

Employment law can be complex and can best be explained by an experienced attorney. A few of the most common factors our firm helps clients address include the following:

Wrongful termination: Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of Colorado or federal employment law. Examples of wrongful termination include firing an employee due to their race, gender, religion, age, disability or other firing that violates public policy.
Harassment and discrimination: Ranging from unwelcome flirtation to outright racial discrimination, banter and jokes can quickly cross the line into harassment and create a hostile and intimidating work environment. Sexual harassment is one of the most common forms of emotional and verbal abuse, but other forms include discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age and disability.
Hiring and applications: There are plenty of criteria an employer can use to determine whether or not to hire someone. However, they cannot discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, pregnancy, national origin, disability or age. If any of these, or other factors played a role in your application or interview, speak with an attorney about your options.
Wage, hour and overtime: Minimum wage laws can vary and may even change as lawmakers look to alter federal and state minimums. If your employer fails to provide for overtime or proper compensation, you may have a strong case for pursuing due wages. We will work with you and explain the laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Unsafe workplace conditions: Employers have a duty to provide their employees with a safe working environment. It is also illegal for an employer to terminate or discriminate against an employee for bringing attention to unsafe conditions or for filing for workers' compensation benefits after suffering an injury on the job. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency handling many private employee complaints related to unsafe working conditions.
Workers' compensation: Workers' comp provides financial compensation for injured or disabled workers suffering from occupation injuries or diseases. Speak with our attorneys to determine if your injury or illness renders you eligible for benefits.
Paid time off: Parental leave is one of the most common reasons for approved long-term time off. If an employer discriminates against a pregnant employee, she may have recourse under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Whistleblower protection: Most employers make a concerted effort to comply with state and federal laws protecting employees. However, there are instances where individuals must bring attention to violation of laws and standards. These persons are often referred to as whistleblowers, and can face discrimination, intimidation, harassment and other mistreatment at the hands of employers and co-workers for exposing violations. Fortunately, there are numerous legal protections in place to deter intimidation and discriminatory actions against whistleblowers. If you feel you have been discriminated against or harassed for acting as a whistleblower, we can help.

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated from your job, are the victim of sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace, or have suffered an injury while at work, Patrick & Knoebel stands prepared for fight for you.

Schedule your free initial consultation.

We Put Our Clients First

Contact our Denver law office to discuss your case with a lawyer in confidence. We will listen to your story, offer advice and can help you take action to protect your career. Call 303-567-6277 or send an email by filling out a brief contact form.