Employment discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of characteristics like race, religion, age, gender, or disability. Discrimination often affects hiring decisions, pay, promotions, benefits, or termination.

Employees could sue for wrongful termination if they were fired based on discrimination, in retaliation for whistleblowing, or in violation of employment contracts or public policy. At-will workers usually cannot sue for wrongful termination.

A legally binding contract typically requires an offer, acceptance of terms, consideration or payment, capacity to contract, legal purpose, and mutual assent and intent to be bound.

Labor laws apply to most employees, full- or part-time, and cover issues like overtime pay, medical leave, age discrimination, and workplace safety. Some exempt employees, like managers or educated professionals, are not subject to certain labor laws.

The most common legal structures for small businesses are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or LLC. Each has different rules around taxes, liability, and management.

If a business partner is excluded from major decisions about the company’s operations, finances, policies, or other managing issues typically requiring co-approval, they may be able to legally compel their involvement.

Options include filing for an injunction to require joint decision-making or suing for breach of fiduciary duty if the managing partner is acting negligently or self-serving without regard for the other’s rights and interests. Renegotiating the partnership agreement is best, but legal action may be needed if attempted resolutions remain unsuccessful.