Washington Employment Law Guide
Washington offers strong worker protections with comprehensive employment laws and progressive workplace policies.
Quick Washington Facts
Sexual Harassment Laws in Washington
Understanding your rights and protections against workplace sexual harassment.
Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) - RCW 49.60
Filing Deadline: 300 days to file with Washington State Human Rights Commission | Employer Size: 8 or more employees
Your Protections
- Covers employers with 8 or more employees
- Protects employees, interns, volunteers, and apprentices
- Covers harassment by anyone in the workplace
- Mandatory sexual harassment training in certain industries
- Broader protections than federal law
Available Remedies
- Unlimited compensatory damages
- Unlimited punitive damages
- Attorneys fees and costs
- Injunctive relief
- Back pay and front pay
- Reinstatement
Key Features of Washington Law
Lower employer threshold than federal law (8 vs 15 employees)
Covers broader range of workers including volunteers
Prohibits non-disclosure agreements for harassment settlements
Strong anti-retaliation protections
Covers harassment by customers and third parties
Progressive enforcement with significant penalties
Need Help with Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment cases require immediate action. Don't wait - the clock is ticking on your legal rights.
Washington Labor Codes & Legal Resources
Direct access to Washington employment laws and regulations.
Official Washington Labor Code
Access the complete, up-to-date Washington labor code directly from the official state website.
View Official Washington Labor Code →Wage & Hour Laws
Minimum wage, overtime, meal breaks, and pay requirements.
Code Section: RCW 49.46 - Minimum Wage Requirements and Labor Standards
Learn More →Discrimination Laws
Protection against workplace discrimination and harassment.
Code Section: RCW 49.60 - Discrimination—Human Rights Commission
Learn More →Sexual Harassment
Laws protecting against sexual harassment in the workplace.
Code Section: RCW 49.60.180
Learn More →Retaliation Protection
Protection for employees who report violations or exercise rights.
Code Section: RCW 49.60.210 - Retaliation Prohibited
Learn More →Wrongful Termination
Laws governing when and how employees can be terminated.
Code Section: RCW 49.60.180
Learn More →Download Resources
Checklists and guides to help build your employment case.
Key Employment Laws in Washington
Important legislation that protects workers in Washington.
Protection Laws
- Washington Law Against Discrimination
- Washington Family and Medical Leave Act
- Washington Workers' Compensation Act
- Washington Equal Pay and Opportunities Act
Important Limitations
- At-will employment with exceptions
- Complex compliance requirements
Employment Lawyers in Major Washington Cities
Find local employment attorneys in these major Washington metropolitan areas.
Seattle
Population: 750,000
Tech hub and major port city with aerospace, technology, and healthcare industries.
Spokane
Population: 230,000
Eastern Washington hub with healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries.
Tacoma
Population: 220,000
Port city with manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare industries.
Vancouver
Population: 185,000
Portland metro suburb with manufacturing, healthcare, and retail industries.
Bellevue
Population: 150,000
Affluent tech suburb with technology, healthcare, and professional services.
Common Employment Issues in Washington
These employment law issues frequently arise for workers in Washington.
Disability Discrimination
Facing disability discrimination? Know your rights and get the help you deserve.
Learn More →Age Discrimination
Over 40 and facing discrimination? We can help protect your rights in the workplace.
Learn More →Gender Discrimination
Experiencing gender discrimination? We can help you fight for equal treatment.
Learn More →Race Discrimination
Facing racial discrimination at work? Know your rights and get the justice you deserve.
Learn More →When to Contact a Washington Employment Attorney
Don't wait if you're experiencing workplace violations. Early action can protect your rights.
Discrimination or Harassment
If you're being treated unfairly due to protected characteristics like race, gender, age, or disability.
Wrongful Termination
If you believe you were fired for illegal reasons or in violation of Washington law.
Wage and Hour Violations
If your employer isn't paying proper wages, overtime, or following Washington wage laws.
Retaliation
If you're being punished for reporting violations or exercising your legal rights.
Family or Medical Leave Issues
If your employer is denying legally protected leave under Washington or federal law.
Workplace Safety Concerns
If your employer is creating unsafe working conditions or retaliating for safety complaints.
Protect Your Rights in Washington
Our employment attorneys understand Washington law and can help you navigate workplace issues. Get a free consultation today.