Must I Hire An Attorney To Represent Me At The Hearing?

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Must I Hire An Attorney To Represent Me At The Hearing?

You have the right to be represented by an attorney, but you do not have to hire one as long as you are diligent in gathering the necessary evidence. The Claimant's Guide to the Appeals Process will provide assistance in preparing you for the hearing.

If you plan to get representation, do so as soon as possible, so that your representative will have time to prepare. Notify the Appeals Division of the name and address of your representative so that he or she will be informed of hearings or proceedings. You must decide before the hearing whether you need representation. Start immediately to gather any papers that relate to the issue such as correspondence from your employer, union contracts, warning notices or medical statements. Also, be certain that any witnesses who have direct knowledge of the events in question are available to attend the hearing.

The hearing before the Referee is the only chance you will have to tell your story. Be prepared to tell the Referee everything you think is important and to present all witnesses and evidence at the hearing. You will not be allowed another hearing to present evidence that you failed to offer the first time unless you had good cause for your failure.

Other Connecticut Labor and Employment FAQs

Q: What is the minimum wage in Connecticut?
A: The minimum wage for adults working in the State of Connecticut is currently $8.00 per hour (as of January 1, 2002). Minors may be paid 85% of the minimum wage for … More
Q: When Must An Employer Pay Overtime?
A: According to law, overtime at one and onehalf times the employee's regular rate of pay is due after 40 hours of actual work in the workweek. More
Q: Does Paying An Employee By Salary Exempt Them From Overtime?
A: No, paying an employee a salary does not make exempt them from overtime. The employee must meet the definition of an executive, administrative, or professional … More
Q: Am I Entitled To Lunch And Rest Breaks?
A: There is no state law requiring a break be provided. The law does state that, with exceptions, an employee shall not be required to work for seven and a half or more … More
Q: Must An Employer Provide Sick Pay, Vacation Pay Or Holiday Pay?
A: An employer is not required by law to pay for sick time, vacation time or holidays. More
Q: If I Am Fired From My Job, How Soon Must My Employer Pay Me?
A: If you are terminated from your job, your employer must pay you all earnings owed by the next business day. If you are laid off or quit your job, your employer must … More
Q: What Can I Do If My Employer Owes Me Wages?
A: If you have a wage complaint, you can file a Statement of Claim for Wages Form . More
Q: Is There A Law Regarding Required Paydays?
A: State law requires a weekly payday within 8 days of the end of the pay period; however, an employer may write the Regulation of Wages Division for a waiver of this, … More
Q: What Are The Criteria To Be Considered An Independent Contractor?
A: The Unemployment Compensation Law defines employment as any service performed under any expressed or implied contract of hire creating the employer and employee … More
Q: How Do I Know If I Am Eligible To Receive Unemployment Benefits?
A: To be eligible for benefits, you must meet the following criteria:Be fully or partially unemployed; Be unemployed through no fault of your own [the law imposes … More