Practice Areas
Common Employment & Labor Matters in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employment and labor law encompasses both state-specific protections and federal regulations, with cases handled through the Wisconsin Circuit Court system and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin. The state maintains robust anti-discrimination laws under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act and unique provisions for public sector collective bargaining. Milwaukee serves as the primary legal hub, with the Milwaukee County Circuit Court hearing many significant employment disputes. Wisconsin's legal environment reflects its manufacturing and agricultural heritage, with specialized protections for various industries.
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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
Browse by City
Employment & Labor Attorneys by City in Wisconsin
Select your city for local attorney matching and city-specific legal information.
Why It Matters
Why Hire an Employment & Labor Attorney in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin-licensed attorneys understand the state's specific employment statutes, including unique provisions of the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act and recent changes to public sector bargaining laws. Local attorneys are familiar with Wisconsin Circuit Court procedures and have relationships with state labor agencies like the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
Local Courts
Employment and labor cases in Wisconsin are primarily heard in the Wisconsin Circuit Court system, with federal employment matters handled by the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Law
Wisconsin Employment & Labor Laws & Deadlines
Wisconsin follows at-will employment but provides exceptions for public policy violations and discrimination under Wis. Stat. § 111.31-111.395. Employment discrimination claims must be filed within 300 days with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, and wage claims have a two-year statute of limitations under Wisconsin law.
Key Facts
What to Know About Employment & Labor in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin's at-will employment law and what are the exceptions?
Wisconsin follows at-will employment, meaning employers can terminate employees for any reason except those prohibited by law. Exceptions include termination for filing workers' compensation claims, refusing to violate laws, or discrimination based on protected characteristics under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act.
How long do I have to file an employment discrimination claim in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you must file employment discrimination complaints with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development within 300 days of the discriminatory act. This deadline is crucial as failing to meet it can bar your claim under both state and federal law.
How do I find a qualified employment attorney in Wisconsin?
Look for attorneys licensed by the Wisconsin State Bar who specialize in employment law and have experience with Wisconsin-specific statutes like the Fair Employment Act. Consider attorneys familiar with your local Wisconsin Circuit Court and who understand both state labor regulations and federal employment laws.
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