The average cost to hire an attorney in New Hampshire can be more than $400 an hour, and that clock starts ticking from the moment your concern is discussed, but not for NHADA members. Our members have access to employment experts at three NH law firms: Bernstein Shur, Devine Millimet and McLane Middleton. The attorneys you will reach have volunteered for this arrangement; because of this, the free calls are limited to 10 minutes.
If your employment law question isn’t covered in the NH Auto Dealer Law manual or one of our many online resources, these firms can provide some guidance on questions regarding the topics outlined in the list to the right.
Think quick-lube, not engine rebuilds: The calls are not meant to handle extensive, specific legal advice. Rather, the hotline is meant to be a quick resource for general guidelines to assist you when tackling more basic issues.
This program is not a substitute for thorough legal research and strategic development for a specific situation or claim. Remember, the call is enough for you to get a sense of the issue(s) and to provide you with an overview of the applicable laws, not to map out a detailed strategy for a difficult situation or to provide you with a thorough risk assessment.
If your situation calls for more detailed advice or the review of any written materials, the attorneys will gladly discuss their hourly rates and billing policies. Many members find that having established relationships with employment lawyers to provide advice on a proactive basis is beneficial, and hiring a lawyer is easier than you may think.
Don’t shoot the messenger: You may not hear the answer you want. The attorneys tell it like it is, and sometimes that means bad news for you. Please, don’t vent your frustration on them.
Be patient: The attorneys will try to return calls within a reasonable time, usually between 24 and 48 hours, but sometimes longer. It is very unlikely that you’ll speak to an attorney immediately as they have full caseloads and may be in court. If you have a pressing legal matter that needs immediate attention, hire an attorney.
Leave a detailed message after the beep: Provide specific details about the matter or question that you have when you leave a message.
Of course, we are here to answer your questions too. For questions on this matter, please contact me at dbennett@nhada.com or (603) 224-2369.
The Employment Law Hotlines will answer general questions about:
- Wage and hour;
- Overtime;
- Exempt and non-exempt status;
- How to hire, fire and discipline properly;
- Protecting intellectual property;
- Non-compete agreements;
- Employee documentation;
- Leave of absence issues;
- Disability and reasonable accommodation;
- Workplace harassment and discrimination;
- Employee vs. independent contractor;
- Personnel policies and practices;
- Drug testing;
- Workers’ compensation;
- Compliance;
- Background checks and more.
Hotlines
Bernstein Shur
603-665-8857
Devine Millimet
603-695-8582
McLane Middleton
603-628-1426
