Fighting for fairness, equity, and accountability in workplaces in Des Moines and nationwide. Contact us today to protect your rights and create real change.
Des Moines Employment Attorneys
Serving Clients in Iowa & Minnesota
Employment is a critical part of life, and for that reason, protections are in place to prevent employers from abusing the relationships they have with their workers. However, the laws governing and dictating the terms of this relationship can be confusing, ambiguous, and may leave someone wondering if they have been wronged after they have been either mistreated, unfairly disciplined, or even terminated. At Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C., we’re here to help make sense of employment law and provide staunch, aggressive defense for employees and workers who have been wronged by their employers.
Led by experienced attorneys Jill Zwagerman, Tom Newkirk, and Leonard Bates, Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C. proudly represents employees, workers, students, and those whose civil rights are under threat from larger and more powerful corporate or public entities. Whether it’s fighting for fair pay, negotiating a severance package, or creating fair disability accommodations, our legal professionals are personally invested in securing a positive outcome for each case. As champions for workers, we make it our mission to provide a fighting chance for those who simply can’t stand up to their employers on their own by giving them advocacy and representation that knows how to put the law on their side. Whether your case is settled through negotiation or needs to go all the way to trial, we are prepared to do whatever it takes.
We offer free consultations both virtually and in person! Call Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C. at (515) 497-9409 today to schedule yours.
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"They Speak My Language"
Tom Newkirk and his firm are experts on the state of college athletics and the type of bias that coaches and especially female coaches deal with on daily bases. They speak a language that anyone can understand.- Petra M. -
"Patience & Professionalism"
I knew after the first meeting that Jill Zwagerman was the best fit for my case. Her patience, professionalism, and experience guided me through a process that produced a better outcome than I could imagine.- Terry W.
Your Advocate For A Fair Workplace Our Services
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Justice That Works for You Meet Your Dedicated Legal Team
We'll Be Your Voice in the Fight
Legal Counsel for Employees in Iowa & Minnesota
As an employee, it’s easy to feel powerless or overwhelmed by the process of facing your employer, especially if you work for a large company that has a massive human resources department and a small army of attorneys working to protect their best interests. At Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C., we know what you’re up against, and we’ve taken on these fights for thousands of clients over our distinguished history. Since opening our doors in 2009, we have stood up for employees and given them the chance to pursue justice when they have been wrongfully treated by entities that have mistreated them, including both private businesses and public institutions alike. We can even handle employment matters pertaining to the federal government!
Our services include:
Our team is made up of attorneys who are licensed to practice in Iowa and Minnesota, meaning we can assist you on both sides of the state line. If you are searching for an employment law attorney near me in Des Moines, we are here to help.
Understanding Employment Discrimination in Des Moines
Des Moines, as an economic hub of Iowa, presents unique employment challenges where cases of discrimination may arise in various forms. Employment discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably because of characteristics such as race, gender, or age. These protected classes are defined under both federal laws like the Civil Rights Act and specific Iowa state laws that may provide additional protections.
In Des Moines, employers must adhere to the Iowa Civil Rights Act, which extends beyond federal protections in some instances, covering discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, among others. If you suspect discriminatory practices at your workplace, it's crucial to act promptly. Documentation of incidents, keeping records of communication, and a timeline of events can substantiate claims. At Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C., our employment law attorneys in Des Moines meticulously analyze these details to construct a robust strategy, advocating fiercely against discrimination. Our knowledge of local and federal employment laws allows us to effectively fight for your rights and pursue fair treatment in the workplace.
Know Your Rights as an Employee or Contractor
In both Iowa and Minnesota, the vast majority of employer/employee relationships are considered “employment at will.” What this essentially means is two things: first, employees can leave their job at any time, without warning or reason, and second, employers retain the power to terminate an employment agreement with an employee at any time and for any reason with no warning or notice required. However, this power is not absolute, and employers are still forbidden from firing an employee as an act of retaliation or discrimination against a protected quality or reason.
Defending Your Dignity Bold Representation for Bold Change
See What Sets Us Apart
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Equity for All
Fighting for your rights, we work towards the fundamental equality of every individual.
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Accountability-Focused
We work to ensure organizations are responsible for creating fair and just workplaces.
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Employee Advocates
We empower our clients to have their voices heard and their rights protected.
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Fostering Inclusion
At our core, we drive positive change through education and implicit bias training.