North Carolina Legal FAQs

Employment law

Will I get fired if I file a North Carolina Wage and Hour Act lawsuit against my employer?
It is illegal for your employer to fire you solely for filing a lawsuit under the North Carolina Wage and Hour Act. The law protects your rights to fair employment practices and also protects you from retaliation actions such as unjust employment termination.

My employer pays me weekly, but I work 60+ hours sometimes. Am I entitled to overtime pay?
Generally speaking, employees paid weekly & hourly are entitled to overtime pay for any work beyond 40 hours per week. Talk to an attorney about the specifics of your case to find out what wages you are entitled to and how to take legal action to claim the earned compensation.

Workers' compensation

What kind of things will workers comp benefits cover?
Except for agricultural and domestic workers, workers' comp benefits will cover accidental injuries and occupational diseases that arise out of and in the course of your employment. In addition your employer has to employ three or more full time employees to be required to have workers' comp benefits. However, it can potentially cover a variety of injury-related expenses:

• Medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Vocational training

When should I report my injury?
Immediately after the incident, you should report the injury directly to your supervisor. He or she has a responsibility to help you seek medical attention from an approved list of doctors; however, in emergency situations, make your first priority seeking emergency medical care.

What can I do if my claim was denied?
First, consider seeking legal advice from an attorney. It may be in your best interest to file an appeal. It may also be in your best interest to gather additional evidence before you pursue an appeal. Many successful claims are often originally denied. Hire a lawyer to help ensure you are meeting the claims requirements and do not give up hope—it is still possible to obtain your entitled benefits.

Criminal defense

Is it possible to plead not-guilty to DWI charges?
Yes, it is entirely possible to plead not guilty and defend against unfounded Raleigh DUI charges. The evidence that the State desires to use against you may not be admissible, blood alcohol content tests are not always reliable, and there are several other conditions that can mimic the symptoms of DWI:

• Allergic reactions
• Emotional stress

Do I need a lawyer to defend a traffic ticket?
That is really a personal choice, but a lawyer can help you understand your rights, save you the time and trouble of going to court, and often obtain a mofidication of a charge against you. Mr. Willis offers valuable counsel and experience with local traffic courts.