State Directory
Employment Lawyers in New York
Browse this state directory, then narrow by city when a local Employment Law page is available.
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These cities currently have Employment Law directory coverage in New York.
About Employment Law in New York
Employment discrimination claims can be filed with the New York State Division of Human Rights (an administrative agency) or directly in New York state court under the Human Rights Law.
For discriminatory acts occurring on or after February 15, 2024, New York gives three years to file an unlawful discrimination complaint with the Division of Human Rights, up from the prior one-year period.
New York manual workers (employees spending more than 25% of work time on physical labor) must generally be paid weekly and no later than seven days after wages are earned, while other employees must be paid at least semi-monthly, under Labor Law § 191.
Effective January 1, 2026, New York's minimum wage is $17.00 per hour in New York City, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), and Westchester County, and $16.00 per hour in the rest of the state; the applicable rate depends on where the employee physically works, not the employer's location.
Sources: New York State Division of Human Rights, New York Labor Law § 191, New York State Department of Labor (verified 2026-07-03)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a Employment Law lawyer in New York?
Look for an attorney with relevant Employment Law experience, confirm they are licensed to practice in New York, and use an initial consultation to evaluate whether their approach and communication style fit your situation.
What should I prepare before contacting a lawyer?
Gather any documents relevant to your matter, write a short timeline of key events, and prepare a list of questions about cost, process, and expected timeline. Being organized helps an attorney evaluate your situation quickly.
Can I compare lawyers across different cities in New York?
Yes — legal requirements for many practice areas are largely set at the state level, so Employment Law attorneys in different New York cities can often help with similar matters. Comparing profiles across nearby cities can widen your options if local coverage is limited.