Labor law
RB Jurist is a specialized labor law legal advisor with extensive experience in labor law, providing you with unique expertise and in depth knowledge of both individual and collective labor law.
We offer advice and support that is legally sound and commercially advantageous—always with the client's best interests at the center.
What is labor law?
Labor law regulates the relationship between employers and employees and covers issues such as employment, termination, working environment, and collective bargaining agreements. Knowledge of labor law serves as a tool for managing conflicts, ensuring legal compliance, and protecting the rights of both employers and employees.
If knowledge of labor law is lacking, the consequences can be serious for both employers and employees. Employers risk invalid dismissals, claims for damages, disputes with trade unions, and a damaged work environment. It is important for an employee to be aware of labor law and regulations to understand their rights and obligations, so that you avoid mistakes that can lead to warnings, conflicts, or in the worst case, termination.
Areas of labor law
Employment / Employment Agreement
Get a grip on what applies, whether you are hiring or being hired. The law always stands behind a clear agreement. A written employment contract clarifies the terms, reduces the risk of misunderstandings, serves as important evidence if something is questioned, and also fulfills the legal information requirements..
Collective agreements
A collective agreement is a powerful tool that creates clarity and security in your business. It regulates everything from wages and working hours to how conflicts are handled, giving you better control. Clear terms reduce the risk of mistakes and save both time and money. With proper management, a collective agreement becomes a strategic advantage.
Parental leave
Parental leave provides both employees and employers with clear frameworks for leave related to the birth and upbringing of children. The law regulates full and partial leave, including VAB (temporary parental leave for sick child), and protects against discrimination. With good planning, employers can smoothly manage absences and the need for temporary staff.
Vacation
The Annual Leave Act secures the right to vacation and recovery for all employees. It provides at least 25 vacation days per year, including vacation pay and carried-over days. Employers plan vacation in consultation with employees to ensure smooth business operations.
Work environment
The Work Environment Act sets fundamental requirements for the work environment. The act aims to prevent ill-health and accidents, and to create a safe and well-functioning work environment. The employer has the primary responsibility and must conduct systematic work environment management, while the employee is expected to participate by following instructions and noticing risks.
Illness and rehabilitation
The employer's rehabilitation responsibilities are regulated by the Work Environment Act, the Social Insurance Code, and case law from the Labor Court. This means identifying needs early, assessing work capacity, implementing adjustments, and planning a return to work in collaboration with the Swedish Social Insurance Agency and the employee. The employee is expected to actively participate, and if participation is lacking, the employer's rehabilitation responsibility may be considered fulfilled.
Working hours
The provisions of the Working Hours Act can be replaced by collective agreements. Adaptations can be made according to the industry's needs, for example, in the case of shift work or seasonal variations, provided that the EU's minimum requirements are followed. Common deviations concern weekly working hours, daily and weekly rest, overtime, night work, on-call duty, and additional hours, with compensation to the employee.
Termination
Terminating an employee is governed by the Employment Protection Act (LAS) and always requires objective reasons, such as a shortage of work or personal circumstances. The employer must consider reassignment, document actions, and follow order of seniority rules according to the collective agreement. Correct handling according to the Labour Court's practice reduces the risk of disputes, damages, and invalid terminations..
Dismissal
According to the Employment Protection Act (LAS), dismissal may only occur in cases of misconduct and means that employment terminates immediately. The employer must act within two months of becoming aware of the incident. Incorrect dismissal can lead to disputes, damages, or invalidation, making legal advice important.
More areas within labor law
RB Jurist also provides support in the following areas of employment law;
Co-determination in work place
The Co-determination Act (MBL) is central to everyday labor law and integrated into company decision-making processes. Understanding and adhering to the regulatory framework is crucial, as incorrect application or disregard of the MBL can lead to significant damages for the employer.
Reorganization
In times of staff shortages and reorganization, accurate knowledge is crucial for a secure process. The right guidance ensures that reassignments and dismissals are handled correctly from start to finish, minimizing the risk of disputes and creating clarity for both employers and employees.
Study leave
Study leave grants employees the right to professional development without a general time limit. The leave can be taken full-time or part-time, but the employer may, in certain cases, postpone it for operational reasons. Learn more about the rules regarding the right to study and the employer's obligations.
Relocation
Both in cases of redundancy and for personal reasons, the employer must first explore the possibility of reassignment before termination can occur. A thorough reassignment investigation ensures that all alternatives have been considered and reduces the risk of disputes.
Remote work
Remote work is not governed by law but is determined by the employer, company policy, or employment contract. Guidelines usually cover responsibilities, working hours, and the work environment, even when working remotely.
Discrimination
The Discrimination Act protects employees and job seekers, but only when the treatment is related to one of the seven grounds for discrimination. Perceived unfairness is not enough for the act to apply.
Employment Law for Employers and Managers
Employers and managers support in, for example:
- Create correct employment contracts or policies
- Handle dismissals for personal reasons
- Assess whether you as an employer can dismiss
- Manage conflicts or reorganizations
Employment law for employees
Employees can receive guidance on, for example:
- Employment conditions
- Leave and vacation
- Work environment
- Termination and rehabilitation
Frequently Asked Questions about Labor Law
What is labor law?
Rules and laws governing the relationship between employers and employees.
When should we as an organization seek legal assistance with labor law?
As soon as questions arise regarding contracts, termination, or disputes. Early advice reduces risks.
Labor law for managers – what should be considered?
Understanding labor law regulations and responsibilities is crucial for the proper management of personnel and processes.
Employment Law for Employees – What Rights Exist?
Employment rights, leave, work environment, and protection in conflicts.