Austin-Round Rock was recently named one of the top places to start a small business in the United States by the officials at RewardExpert, a company that helps users maximize credit card and travel rewards. With small businesses ripe for growth in the area, many will soon find a need to bring on employees to keep pace with their workload. The time to start thinking seriously about the many laws and regulations that apply is before you become a Texas employer.
Whether you are considering a part time administrative assistant, or one hundred full time permanent employees, the moment you or your business entity decides to hire – many rights, duties and liabilities arise. Entrepreneur magazine estimates the average cost of a new employee at close to $4,000. That is why it is very important to consider not only the cost of hiring an employee, but the legal implications of hiring.
One of the best sources of basic information about being a Texas employer is the Texas Workforce Commission’s The A to Z of Personnel Policies. Within its pages are sample guidelines and forms that really matter, customized to Texas start up and small employers. You will find the information efficient and very different than some of the expensive, wordy, non-Texas specific policy manuals offered for sale. A review of these materials will give potential employers a better understanding of some of the legal pitfalls that can be encountered when bringing on employees.
Hiring help is an essential element to the growth of any business. Understanding employment laws, contracts, tax obligations and the implications of firing an employee can be complex for any business owner. Consulting an experienced attorney to help you navigate these concepts can save you a lot of unwanted grief and expense down the line. A responsible advocate should offer a no cost consultation to assess your needs.
The preceding is part of a series of articles being offered in the coming weeks by The Fowler Law Firm called Employment Law Summer School. These articles are designed to help you avoid costly legal mistakes.
About your authors:
Susan Littleton serves as The Fowler Law Firm PC Section Chief for Employment & Immigration Law. She has tried cases in every part of Texas and has served as a City of Austin Municipal Judge.
Laura Fowler is the Managing Shareholder of The Fowler Law Firm PC. She is a regular speaker on a variety of business related topics. Email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive updates on dates, topics and sponsors of upcoming discussions.
About The Fowler Law Firm PC: Attorneys with The Fowler Law Firm PC proudly donate their talents and resources to many area charities and teach courses in Continuing Education Click HERE for more information. Follow our charitable adventures on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages.