If your employer has treated you unlawfully, you have legal options. Knowing what they are, and how to pursue them effectively, is the first step.
Losing a job, being passed over, or working in a hostile environment is stressful enough on its own. When you suspect it happened because of your age, race, gender, disability, or because you spoke up about something illegal, the stakes get personal fast. You may not be sure whether what happened to you crosses a legal line. That’s a fair question, and it’s exactly the kind of question we help answer.
Embedded Counsel represents employees across Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire in claims involving wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, wage theft, misclassification, and violations of state and federal employment law.
What makes our approach different:
We’ve sat on the other side of the table. Our attorneys have served as in-house counsel for companies, which means we know how employers evaluate claims internally: what worries them, what they dismiss, what triggers a fast settlement, and where they dig in. That knowledge directly informs how we build and present your case.
We focus on what’s realistic. Not every bad boss is breaking the law, and not every legal claim leads to a big payout. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your situation, tell you what outcomes are realistic, and explain the process clearly so you can make informed decisions.
We move efficiently. Many employment claims have strict filing deadlines. Discrimination complaints through the MCAD or EEOC have time limits that, if missed, can eliminate your ability to bring a claim entirely. We help you act within those windows and build the strongest possible case from the start.
Types of claims we handle:
- Wrongful termination. Fired for reasons that violate public policy, your employment contract, or anti-discrimination law.
- Workplace discrimination. Adverse treatment based on age, race, sex, gender identity, disability, national origin, religion, or other protected characteristics.
- Retaliation. Punished for reporting illegal activity, filing a complaint, requesting accommodations, or exercising a legal right.
- Sexual harassment. Hostile work environment or quid pro quo harassment by a supervisor, coworker, or third party.
- Wage and hour violations. Unpaid overtime, withheld tips, misclassification as an independent contractor, or failure to pay minimum wage.
You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out. If something happened at work that felt wrong, a consultation is the right place to start. We’ll listen, ask the right questions, and tell you where you stand.
If you’re an employee in Massachusetts or New Hampshire dealing with workplace retaliation, discrimination, or wrongful termination, contact Embedded Counsel for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions on Employment Claims
How do I know if what happened to me is actually illegal?
Not every unfair workplace situation is unlawful, but many situations that employees assume are “just how it works” do cross legal lines. If you were terminated, demoted, or harassed in connection with a protected characteristic (race, age, gender, disability, etc.) or in retaliation for reporting misconduct, you may have a claim. A consultation is the fastest way to find out.
What is the MCAD, and do I have to file there first?
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is the state agency that handles workplace discrimination complaints. In most cases, you need to file with the MCAD (or the federal EEOC) before you can bring a lawsuit in court. There are strict deadlines for filing, typically 300 days from the date of the discriminatory act, so it’s important to act promptly.
Will I get fired for filing a complaint?
Retaliation for filing a discrimination or harassment complaint is illegal under both Massachusetts and federal law. If your employer takes adverse action against you because you filed a complaint, that itself becomes a separate legal claim. That said, it’s smart to consult with an attorney before filing so you understand the process and your protections.
How long do employment cases take?
Timelines vary. Some cases resolve through negotiation or mediation within a few months. Cases that go through the MCAD process or into court can take a year or longer. We’ll give you a realistic timeline based on the specifics of your situation early in the process.
What does it cost to hire an employment lawyer as an employee?
It depends on the type of claim. Some employment cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and the attorney’s fee comes out of any recovery. Others may use hourly or flat-fee arrangements. We’ll explain your options during the initial consultation so there are no surprises.