Practice Areas
Common Employment & Labor Matters in Michigan
Michigan employment and labor law encompasses both state statutes and federal regulations, with cases heard in state circuit courts and federal district courts. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity enforces workplace standards, while the state's Whistleblowers' Protection Act and Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act provide additional employee safeguards. Michigan's at-will employment doctrine includes specific exceptions, and the state has unique laws regarding noncompete agreements and unemployment benefits that differ from other jurisdictions.
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Wrongful termination claims
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Workplace discrimination
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Wage theft and unpaid overtime
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Whistleblower protection
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Employment contract disputes
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Employment & Labor Attorneys by City in Michigan
Select your city for local attorney matching and city-specific legal information.
Why It Matters
Why Hire an Employment & Labor Attorney in Michigan?
Employment and labor cases in Michigan require attorneys licensed by the State Bar of Michigan who understand both state-specific statutes and local federal court procedures. Michigan-licensed attorneys are familiar with state agency processes, local court rules in the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, and the nuances of Michigan's employment laws that may not apply in other states.
Local Courts
Employment and labor cases in Michigan are typically filed in state circuit courts for state law claims or in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern or Western Districts of Michigan for federal matters. Administrative complaints may first be processed through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or federal EEOC.
Michigan Law
Michigan Employment & Labor Laws & Deadlines
Michigan employment discrimination claims must be filed within 180 days with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. The state's Whistleblowers' Protection Act provides protection for employees reporting legal violations, while Michigan's Wages and Fringe Benefits Act governs wage and hour disputes with specific notice requirements.
Key Facts
What to Know About Employment & Labor in Michigan
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
180–300 days to file EEOC charge (varies by state)
Attorney Cost
Many work on contingency. Terms vary by attorney.
Our Network
Employment & Labor attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act and how does it protect employees?
Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status. This state law provides broader protections than federal law and requires complaints to be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
How long do I have to file an employment lawsuit in Michigan?
Michigan employment claims have varying deadlines: discrimination complaints must be filed within 180 days under Elliott-Larsen, wage claims within 6 years, and wrongful termination typically within 3 years. Federal claims like Title VII require EEOC filing within 300 days in Michigan due to the state's fair employment agency.
How do I find a qualified employment attorney in Michigan?
Look for attorneys licensed by the State Bar of Michigan with specific employment law experience in Michigan courts.
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