Sarasota Employment Lawyer

Workplace problems can feel overwhelming when your livelihood or business reputation is at stake. Employees may feel powerless when facing discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, while employers may worry about disputes that disrupt operations or expose them to liability. That is where our team of professionals at Hoyer Law Group steps in, guided by a long-standing commitment to righting wrongs and helping clients succeed. If you are seeking guidance from a Sarasota, FL employment lawyer, starting the conversation early can protect your rights, reduce stress, and lead to practical solutions. Reach out today to discuss what comes next.

Employment Lawyer Sarasota, FL

Employment law governs how employers and employees interact on a daily basis. It addresses matters such as fair pay, safe working conditions, equal treatment, and freedom from retaliation. It also protects individuals who report fraud or misconduct and sets standards businesses must follow to comply with state and federal rules. When these laws are violated, the impact can be deeply personal. A lost job, damaged reputation, or hostile workplace can quickly create financial strain and emotional pressure.

Most people facing these issues want the same outcome: clarity, accountability, and a path forward that feels fair. Employees often want their concerns taken seriously and resolved without fear of backlash. Whistleblowers want reassurance that speaking up was the right choice and that protections truly apply. Employers want to address disputes efficiently while keeping their organizations strong and compliant. Employment law offers tools to reach these goals, but outcomes often depend on careful preparation and informed decision-making.

Our work begins by listening. Understanding what led to the dispute helps shape a strategy focused on results rather than prolonged conflict. With years of experience handling discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and whistleblower matters, we know how quickly small issues can grow if left unresolved. At the same time, our business representation experience allows us to guide companies through compliance, internal improvements, and defense when claims arise. This balanced perspective supports solutions that are realistic, timely, and aligned with each client’s priorities. Clients gain more than legal guidance; they gain confidence that their concerns are being addressed with focus and care.

Why Experience Matters In Employment Law Cases

Experience matters in employment law because these cases often involve detailed records, sensitive communications, and lasting professional consequences. Our firm was founded by seasoned civil litigators with a passion for helping clients succeed, and that depth of experience supports steady, informed advocacy from start to finish.

• Over 100 years of combined experience across employment, whistleblower, and business law, with attorneys admitted in Florida, Virginia, Maryland, D.C., New York, New Jersey, California, and Michigan to serve clients locally and nationwide
• Proven whistleblower recoveries totaling hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of clients and taxpayers, including an $8.1 million False Claims Act PPP settlement, a $106.8 million False Claims Act settlement, and a $16 million laboratory fraud whistleblower settlement
• Extensive litigation background in discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and federal employment matters, led in part by Senior Associate Neil Ognibene, who spent a decade running a federal employment investigation firm before joining our team
• Business-focused insight from founding partner Dave Scher, regularly cited as a legal commentator by ABC News, Forbes, Politico, and MarketWatch, supporting compliance strategies, executive matters, and strong employer defenses
• Leadership rooted in integrity — managing partner Sean Estes earned his J.D. cum laude from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in employment law, and has served on The Florida Bar’s Annual Convention Committee and as Vice Chair of a Grievance Committee

Clients benefit from a team that understands both the legal process and the real-world impact of workplace disputes.

Taking The Next Step Toward Resolution

Workplace issues do not have to define your future. With a focus on fairness, practical outcomes, and long-term success, Hoyer Law Group, PLLC is prepared to help employees, whistleblowers, and businesses move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact our legal professionals today to talk through your situation and take the first step toward a resolution that protects what matters most.

Types Of Employment Cases We Handle

Workplace problems can take many forms. Employees rely on fair treatment, safe conditions, and clear agreements. When those expectations are not met, legal action may be necessary. Our team represents individuals facing serious workplace disputes and helps them take steps to protect their rights. Our Sarasota, FL employment lawyer works with employees across a wide range of workplace matters and guides difficult situations. Below are several types of common workplace disputes that may require our legal support.

Workplace Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly because of a protected characteristic. Federal and state laws prohibit employers from making decisions based on factors such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or pregnancy.

This type of conduct may appear in hiring decisions, promotions, pay differences, job assignments, or termination. Sometimes the behavior is obvious, while in other cases it develops gradually through repeated patterns. When employees believe they are treated differently because of a protected trait, they may have grounds to pursue a claim. Our Sarasota employment lawyer understands that legal action can help address financial losses, emotional harm, and unfair treatment that occurred in the workplace.

Workplace Harassment

Harassment involves repeated behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. While harassment can take many forms, sexual harassment is one of the most widely recognized examples.

This conduct may include inappropriate comments, unwanted advances, offensive jokes, or repeated behavior that interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job. Harassment can come from supervisors, coworkers, or even third parties connected to the workplace.

According to our Sarasota employment lawyer, employers have a responsibility to address complaints and maintain a respectful work environment. When those responsibilities are ignored, pursuing legal action becomes necessary.

Wrongful Termination

Employment in many states is considered “at will,” meaning employers may end employment for many reasons. However, termination becomes unlawful when it violates employment laws or public policy.

A termination may be considered wrongful if it occurs due to discrimination, retaliation, or another illegal reason. For example, firing an employee after they report workplace violations or participate in a legal complaint may violate employment protections.

Wrongful termination cases often require careful review of employment records, communications, and workplace policies. Our legal guidance can help determine whether the dismissal violated applicable laws.

Wage And Hour Violations

Employees are entitled to fair pay under federal and state wage laws. Unfortunately, pay disputes are one of the most common workplace problems.

Wage and hour violations may involve unpaid overtime, failure to meet minimum wage requirements, off-the-clock work, or improper employee classification. In some cases, workers are labeled as independent contractors when they should be treated as employees. When employers fail to follow wage laws, employees may recover unpaid earnings and other damages. These claims often involve reviewing payroll records, work schedules, and employer policies.

Taking The Next Step

Workplace disputes can affect more than just a paycheck. They may impact career progress, financial stability, and personal well-being. When employees face discrimination, unpaid wages, retaliation, or other workplace problems, legal guidance can make a meaningful difference. Our award-winning team works closely with employees to review their situation, explain available options, and take appropriate action when workplace laws are violated. If you believe your rights at work have been compromised, contact Hoyer Law Group, PLLC today for a confidential evaluation and learn how we can help you move forward.

Employment Law Statistics in Sarasota

The EEOC received 88,531 charges of workplace discrimination nationwide in fiscal year 2024, a 9% increase over the prior year. Retaliation remained the most frequently filed charge for the seventeenth consecutive year, with 42,301 filings. Florida ranks among the top three states for total EEOC charges, with over 5,000 filings in recent years, according to EEOC state data. Sarasota County falls within the jurisdiction of the EEOC Tampa Field Office.

The agency secured nearly $700 million for victims of discrimination in fiscal year 2024. Meanwhile, Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows employment fell in 16 of Florida’s 27 largest counties during 2025. As the labor market shifts and workplace disputes increase, Sarasota employees and employers need to understand the legal framework governing their rights.

What to Expect During an Employment Law Case

Employment disputes follow different paths depending on the claim and the relief being sought. At Hoyer Law Group, PLLC, we walk clients through each stage so they know what’s coming. Here is how an employment case typically moves forward in Sarasota, FL.

• Initial consultation and case evaluation. The process starts with a conversation. We sit down with you, review the facts, and assess whether a viable legal claim exists. Not every bad workplace experience rises to the level of a legal violation. Some do. That distinction matters, and an employment attorney in Sarasota can help you understand where your situation falls.
• Gathering documentation and evidence. Strong cases depend on records. Emails, text messages, personnel files, pay stubs, performance reviews, and internal complaints all play a role. We also look at company policies, employee handbooks, and any severance agreements that may have been offered. The earlier you begin preserving this information, the better positioned your case will be.
• Filing an administrative charge or complaint. Many employment claims require you to file a charge with an agency like the EEOC or the Florida Commission on Human Relations before filing a lawsuit. For discrimination and harassment claims, this is a mandatory first step. Filing deadlines are tight — 180 days under federal law, or 365 days under the Florida Civil Rights Act. Missing the window can end your case before it starts.
• Agency investigation and right to sue. After a charge is filed, the agency investigates. This can take months. In some cases, the EEOC will attempt mediation. If the investigation concludes without resolution, you receive a “right to sue” letter allowing you to take your case to court. Some clients resolve their claims during this phase without ever filing a lawsuit.
• Negotiation and potential settlement. Most employment cases settle before trial. Settlement allows both sides to control the outcome and avoids the cost and uncertainty of litigation. Our Sarasota, FL employment lawyers negotiate with a clear understanding of what the case is worth and what risks both sides face.
• Litigation and trial. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take the case to court. Litigation involves discovery, depositions, motion practice, and potentially a jury trial. The firm’s background in high-stakes civil litigation, including a $466,000 Equal Pay Act jury verdict and a $282,000 wrongful termination verdict, gives our clients confidence that we can perform at trial.
• Post-judgment and enforcement. Even after a favorable result, there may be steps to enforce the terms — collecting on a judgment, monitoring compliance, or addressing post-resolution issues. We stay involved through the finish.

Sarasota Employment Lawyer FAQs

What should I do if I think my employer discriminated against me?

Start by documenting what happened. Write down dates, who was involved, and any witnesses. Save relevant emails or messages. Then consult with an employment attorney before filing a complaint internally or with an agency. Timing matters — federal filing deadlines can be as short as 180 days from the discriminatory act. Getting legal advice early protects your options.

Does Florida have its own employment discrimination law?

Yes. The Florida Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, and marital status. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees. Employees can file complaints with the Florida Commission on Human Relations, which has a 365-day filing deadline — longer than the federal 180-day window.

How much does it cost to hire an employment lawyer?

At Hoyer Law Group, PLLC, consultations are $450. We handle cases on an hourly or flat fee basis. During the initial meeting, we are transparent about what fees look like and what to expect throughout the process.

Can I sue my employer while I’m still employed?

Yes. You do not have to quit or be fired before pursuing a claim. In fact, leaving your job prematurely can sometimes hurt your case. If you’re experiencing ongoing discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, an employment lawyer in Sarasota can advise you on how to protect yourself while continuing to work.

What qualifies as wrongful termination in Florida?

Florida is an at-will employment state, which means employers can terminate employees for almost any reason — or no reason at all. But there are limits. Termination is unlawful if it’s based on a protected characteristic, done in retaliation for reporting illegal activity, or violates a contract. Proving wrongful termination requires showing the firing crossed a legal line.

What types of damages can I recover?

Depending on the claim, you may recover back pay, front pay, compensatory damages for emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages. Claims under the Equal Pay Act or the FLSA may include liquidated damages equal to the amount of unpaid wages. Attorney’s fees are recoverable in many employment cases as well.

What is the EEOC, and do I need to file with them?

The EEOC is the federal agency enforcing laws against workplace discrimination. For most federal discrimination claims, you must file a charge with the EEOC before suing in court. The Tampa Field Office handles filings for Sarasota County.

Does Hoyer Law Group, PLLC represent employers, too?

Yes. We represent both employees and employers in employment law matters. For employers, we advise on compliance, draft workplace policies, defend against claims, and help navigate complex situations involving termination, discrimination allegations, or internal investigations.

How long does an employment law case take?

It varies. Cases that resolve during the EEOC investigation or through early settlement may wrap up in a few months. Cases that go through litigation can take a year or more, depending on the complexity and whether the case reaches trial.

What if my employer retaliates against me for filing a complaint?

Retaliation is illegal under federal and state law. If your employer takes adverse action, demotion, pay cut, schedule change, termination, after you filed a complaint or participated in an investigation, you may have a separate retaliation claim. This applies whether you reported discrimination internally or to an outside agency.

Can I negotiate my severance agreement?

Absolutely. Many employees sign severance agreements without realizing they may be giving up valuable legal claims. An employment attorney can review the terms, identify what you may be waiving, and negotiate for better compensation or modified provisions before you sign.

Does Hoyer Law Group, PLLC handle federal employee cases?

Yes. Senior Associate Neil Ognibene leads our federal employment practice, handling matters involving the Whistleblower Protection Act, Merit Systems Protection Board appeals, and other federal workplace issues. We serve federal employees across Sarasota and statewide.

Local Information for Sarasota Employment Law Cases

Sarasota Courthouses and Employment Law Resources

Employment law cases in Sarasota are heard in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, covering Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto Counties. The Silvertooth Judicial Center at 2002 Ringling Boulevard serves as the primary courthouse. Federal claims under Title VII or the ADA are filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division.

Employees in Sarasota, FL, who need to file a discrimination charge will interact with the EEOC Tampa Field Office. The Florida Commission on Human Relations also accepts complaints under the Florida Civil Rights Act with different filing deadlines.

What Are Important Local Resources for Sarasota Employment Law

If you are dealing with a workplace dispute in Sarasota County, the following agencies may be useful.

• EEOC Tampa Field Office — 501 E. Polk Street, Suite 1000, Tampa, FL 33602 — (800) 669-4000
• Florida Commission on Human Relations — 4075 Esplanade Way, Room 110, Tallahassee, FL 32399 — (850) 488-7082
• Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court — 2002 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34237 — (941) 861-7800
• U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division — Tampa District Office, 4905 W. Laurel Street, Suite 300, Tampa, FL 33607 — (866) 487-9243
• United States District Court, Middle District of Florida — Sam M. Gibbons Courthouse, 801 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33602

Hoyer Law Group, PLLC provides this list as a convenience and does not endorse any of these organizations. Listing a resource does not imply affiliation, partnership, or recommendation.

About the Attorney

Dave Scher is a founding member of Hoyer Law Group, PLLC, operating from the firm’s Washington, D.C. office while serving clients throughout Florida and nationwide. He is frequently cited as a legal commentator by ABC News, Forbes, Politico, and MarketWatch, and his litigation results include a $466,000 Equal Pay Act jury verdict and a $57 million False Claims Act settlement.

What Our Clients Say

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I had the pleasure of working with David Scher as our attorney, and I cannot recommend him highly enough! From our very first meeting, David impressed me with his extensive knowledge of the law and his genuine commitment to our legal matter. He took the time to listen to my concerns and provided clear, actionable advice every step of the way. David’s professionalism and attention to detail were evident throughout the process. He kept me informed and updated, making sure I understood each phase of my case. What truly stood out was his ability to navigate complex legal matters with ease, demonstrating not only his expertise but also his strategic thinking. Going through a challenging time, David’s support made a challenging situation less anxious. If you’re looking for a lawyer who is not only skilled but also compassionate and trustworthy, look no further than David Scher. He’s a true advocate for his clients, and I am incredibly grateful for his support! Five stars without a doubt!”

— Jim Kelly

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Contact Hoyer Law Group, PLLC

If you are facing a workplace dispute in Sarasota, Hoyer Law Group, PLLC is here to help. Whether you’re an employee dealing with discrimination, retaliation, or unfair termination, or an employer navigating a personnel issue, we handle employment law cases on an hourly or flat fee basis. Consultations are $450, and we offer 24/7 live call answering. Contact us today to schedule your confidential case evaluation.