Can I skip my 30-minute meal break?
Q: I have a question. My new manager is requiring us to take a 30-minute meal break. When we ask if we can skip it, he says, “It’s the law.” For years, we were allowed to work through our lunch … Continued
Meal breaks in Massachusetts
Q: I am in a job, and I think I am eligible for paid overtime (at time and one-half) after I work forty hours. I live and work in Massachusetts. However, no one has mentioned lunch breaks. How does this … Continued
My former employer isn’t paying me my commission
Q: I am wondering if you can help me. I was recently terminated and I have sales commissions earned but my former employer is refusing to pay me. What is the rule of law here? Should I sue them? What … Continued
What if you resign before a bonus is paid?
Q: In early March, 2020, I expect to receive a substantial bonus, based on my contributions in calendar year 2019. I am also informationally interviewing at a number of companies. One company is expressing interest in my skill set and … Continued
Can I get a copy of my employee file?
Q: My company is re-organizing and everyone is nervous. I would like a copy of my HR file. Am I allowed to make a copy of it? I would like to know what is in there as my previous supervisor … Continued
Can I leave early instead of taking a lunch hour?
Q: I work part-time hours at a retail office south of Boston. I recently began caring for my granddaughter. I am hoping to leave at 2:30pm instead of 3:00pm so that I am able to meet her at their bus … Continued
Pay difference and the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act
Q: I work for a fast-growing tech company and was hired about two years ago. I was one of the first hired by this company. I have discovered that others, in my peer group, are being hired at much higher … Continued
MA Paid Family Medical Leave – leaves not until 2021
Q: I am pregnant and my due date is in the late fall of 2019. I understand that Massachusetts now offers a paid maternity leave benefit. How do I apply? What other benefits should I be thinking about? A: Congratulations! … Continued
A business breaking the rules when employing a teen
Q: My 14-year-old son recently ended a summer job, which he really loved. The owner of the store wants him to work part-time throughout the school year. However, I think the store owner is not aware of many laws, which … Continued
New non-compete law in Massachusetts
Q: What is your advice regarding non-compete contracts in the technology industry? Are they commonly enforced? A: Your question couldn’t be more timely. Historically, non-compete agreements in the technology world have been enforceable in Massachusetts; the enforceability of these agreements has … Continued