Baird Quinn LLC’s employment attorneys have extensive experience representing clients before federal, state, and municipal agencies responsible for enforcing employment and labor laws in Colorado. Our in-depth knowledge of these laws and investigative processes enables us to provide superior, cost-effective representation.
Employment & Labor Laws Enforced in Colorado
Colorado employers must comply with various employment and labor laws designed to promote fair treatment, workplace safety, and enforceable wage standards. Key agencies overseeing these laws include:
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U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): Enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination based on race, national origin, age, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics.
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Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD): Handles state-level enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.
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Denver Anti-Discrimination Office (DADO): Addresses discrimination complaints within the city of Denver.
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U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): Administers wage and hour laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
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Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): Ensures workplace safety and investigates retaliation claims related to safety complaints.
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Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP): Monitors compliance for federal contractors regarding non-discriminatory practices.
Representation Before the U.S. Department of Labor
Our attorneys assist clients with compliance, mediation, and advocacy on matters involving wage and hour laws enforced by the DOL, such as overtime issues under the FLSA, leave matters under the FMLA, and whistleblower protections under Sarbanes-Oxley. We handle compliance audits and charges filed with the federal DOL and assist with claims before the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, which enforces state employment laws like the Colorado Wage Act.
Advocacy Before EEOC, CCRD, and DADO
We have significant experience representing clients before the Denver field office of the EEOC, the CCRD, and DADO. These agencies enforce laws prohibiting employment discrimination based on various protected characteristics. Our team has represented numerous individuals and businesses in discrimination claims and charges involving all anti-discrimination laws enforced by these agencies. Our experience includes former employment in the EEOC’s legal department, providing us with intimate knowledge of the agency’s practices and data collection methods, such as EEO-1 surveys.
Defense in OSHA Matters
Baird Quinn’s attorneys regularly represent clients responding to charges filed with OSHA, which enforces federal laws prohibiting retaliation against employees who report unsafe work practices. We have extensive experience navigating OSHA’s regulatory and enforcement processes.
Assistance with OFCCP Compliance
For clients subject to oversight and audit by the OFCCP, we offer significant experience in resolving matters favorably, often resulting in no monetary liability. We also represent clients regarding discrimination complaints filed with the OFCCP.
Over the past several decades, our employment attorneys have developed positive working relationships with management and investigators at these agencies, earning respect for our honest, aggressive, and effective advocacy. Our detailed knowledge of employment statutes and regulations, combined with extensive experience handling similar matters, allows us to provide effective and affordable representation.
We offer flexible fee structures, including, in some situations, flat-fee arrangements for handling charges filed with these agencies.
Please contact our Colorado labor and employment lawyers for legal assistance. Learn more about our Denver employment lawyers and the legal advice and representation they can provide for you.
Frequently Asked Questions: Agency Representation & Compliance
What is the difference between the EEOC and the CCRD?
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that enforces federal anti-discrimination laws like Title VII. The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) is a state-level agency that enforces the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. Depending on the nature of your claim and the size of the employer, you may file with one or both agencies.
Do I need a lawyer for an EEOC investigation?
While not strictly required, having an experienced EEOC attorney is highly recommended. Legal counsel helps manage the “position statement,” ensures all evidence is properly presented, and protects your rights during mediation or investigative interviews. For employers, a lawyer is critical to mitigating liability and preventing a lawsuit.
How does the DOL handle wage and hour complaints?
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) investigates claims related to unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, and improper leave under the FMLA. They conduct audits and may interview employees or review payroll records. If violations are found, the DOL can mandate back pay and assess civil money penalties against the business.
What should an employer do if they receive an OSHA complaint?
Employers should take OSHA complaints seriously and act quickly. OSHA investigates workplace safety violations and retaliation against “whistleblowers” who report safety concerns. An attorney can help the business respond to the investigation, perform an internal safety audit, and ensure compliance with federal safety standards.
What is an OFCCP audit?
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) ensures that businesses with federal contracts do not discriminate and actively engage in affirmative action. An OFCCP audit is an extensive review of a company’s hiring practices, pay data, and affirmative action plans to ensure federal compliance.