Employment Law in Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County is the most populous county in New Hampshire, encompassing major cities like Manchester and Nashua, along with numerous surrounding towns with diverse industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to technology and retail. This vibrant economic landscape means that employment disputes are a regular occurrence, affecting both workers and employers across a wide range of sectors. Whether facing wrongful termination, wage theft, workplace discrimination, or harassment, residents of Hillsborough County often need skilled legal guidance to navigate New Hampshire's employment laws. An experienced Employment Law attorney can help protect your rights and pursue the remedies available under state and federal law.

Courts Handling Employment Law Cases in Hillsborough County

Employment Law matters in Hillsborough County are primarily handled by the Hillsborough County Superior Court, which has two divisions located in Manchester and Nashua and hears civil claims including wrongful termination, discrimination, and wage disputes. Administrative complaints, such as those involving the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights or the New Hampshire Department of Labor, are filed with those agencies before potentially proceeding to the Superior Court. Federal employment claims, including those under Title VII or the Americans with Disabilities Act, are filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire, located in Concord.

Common Employment Law Situations in Hillsborough County

Among the most common employment matters in Hillsborough County are wage and hour disputes, including unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, and improper payroll deductions, which are addressed under New Hampshire RSA Chapter 275. Workers also frequently seek legal help regarding wrongful termination, retaliation for whistleblowing or workers compensation claims, and workplace discrimination based on protected characteristics such as age, sex, race, disability, or national origin under the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A). Non-compete agreement disputes are also prevalent in Hillsborough County given the region's competitive technology and healthcare industries.

Penalties and Outcomes in New Hampshire

Under New Hampshire law, employers found liable for wage and hour violations may be required to pay back wages, liquidated damages equal to the amount of unpaid wages, and civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation under RSA 275:56. Successful discrimination or harassment claims before the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights or in court can result in compensatory damages, back pay, reinstatement, injunctive relief, and attorneys fees. Employers who unlawfully retaliate against employees for protected activities may also face additional civil penalties and be ordered to reinstate the employee with full back pay under New Hampshire statutes.

Free — available now

Employment Law question in Hillsborough County?

Call our free hotline right now — available 24/7, no obligation.

Call free now

Why Go To Court for Employment Law in Hillsborough County

Go To Court Lawyers connects residents of Hillsborough County with experienced Employment Law attorneys who understand the nuances of New Hampshire state law and the local court system. With free 24/7 legal information and lawyer booking options coming soon, Go To Court makes it easier than ever to get the employment law help you need when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New Hampshire an at-will employment state?

Yes, New Hampshire is an at-will employment state, meaning that an employer can generally terminate an employee at any time and for any reason, or for no reason at all, without prior notice. However, there are important exceptions under New Hampshire law, including terminations that violate public policy, breach an implied employment contract, or constitute unlawful discrimination or retaliation as prohibited under RSA 354-A and other statutes. If you believe your termination fell within one of these exceptions, consulting an Employment Law attorney in Hillsborough County can help you assess your options.

What should I do if I have not been paid the correct wages by my employer in New Hampshire?

If your employer has failed to pay you correctly, you can file a wage claim with the New Hampshire Department of Labor under RSA 275:51, which investigates complaints related to unpaid wages, overtime, and other pay issues. You may also have the right to file a civil lawsuit in Hillsborough County Superior Court to recover back wages plus liquidated damages. It is important to keep records of your hours worked, pay stubs, and any communications with your employer, as this documentation will be critical to your claim.

What qualifies as workplace discrimination under New Hampshire law?

Under the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A), it is unlawful for employers with six or more employees to discriminate against workers based on age, sex, race, color, marital status, physical or mental disability, religious creed, or national origin. Discrimination can take the form of adverse hiring or firing decisions, unequal pay, denial of promotions, or creating a hostile work environment. Complaints can be filed with the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights within 180 days of the discriminatory act, and an attorney can help ensure your complaint is properly submitted and supported.

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in New Hampshire?

Non-compete agreements can be enforceable in New Hampshire if they are reasonable in scope, geographic area, and duration, and if they protect a legitimate business interest such as trade secrets or customer relationships. Under RSA 275:70, employers must provide a copy of any non-compete agreement to a prospective employee before or at the time of the job offer, and failure to do so can affect enforceability. Courts in Hillsborough County will evaluate each agreement on a case-by-case basis, and an Employment Law attorney can advise you on whether a particular non-compete is likely to be upheld or challenged successfully.

What protections do whistleblowers have under New Hampshire law?

New Hampshire law provides significant protections for employees who report violations of law or public policy by their employers. Under RSA 275-E, the Whistleblowers Protection Act, employees are protected from retaliation when they report or threaten to report conduct they reasonably believe is illegal to a supervisor or public body. If you experience retaliation such as demotion, termination, or harassment after making a protected report, you may be entitled to reinstatement, back pay, compensation for lost benefits, and attorneys fees, and an Employment Law attorney in Hillsborough County can help you pursue these remedies.