Eesti Firma provides professional legal services in the field of labor law and resolution of labor disputes in Estonia. Our specialists have over 15 years of experience in this area and advise both employees and employers on all matters related to labor relations. We help protect our clients’ rights, ensure compliance with all legal formalities, and find the most effective conflict resolution.
Assistance for Employees and Employers in Labor Law
Our firm successfully represents the interests of both employees and employers. This means we have a deep understanding of both sides of labor relations and can offer balanced solutions. Employees turning to us receive protection of their rights—from wage payments to reinstatement—while employers get support in complex staffing situations. Such comprehensive experience allows us to see the situation from all angles and find optimal dispute resolutions.
Consultations on labor law are carried out considering the real working conditions in Estonia, recent changes in the Employment Contracts Act, and judicial practice. We promptly inform clients of their rights and obligations, help evaluate the prospects of their cases, and take all necessary measures to achieve a favorable outcome.
⚖️ Legal Assistance in Labor Disputes
Has your employer failed to pay your salary on time or dismissed you unlawfully? 💼⏳ Do you have questions about employment contracts or hiring foreign employees? 📑🌍
Our experienced lawyers specializing in Estonian labor law will help protect your rights and find the best solution both out-of-court and in court. 🧑⚖️✅
✨ Contact us and get professional support today! 🤝✨
We provide a comprehensive range of labor law services. Below are the main areas in which you can obtain qualified assistance from us:
- Recovery of unpaid salary – assistance to employees in collecting unpaid wages from employers, including preparing claims and contacting relevant authorities.
- Challenging unlawful dismissal – protection of employees’ rights in cases of unjustified dismissal or redundancy, assistance with reinstatement at work or obtaining compensation.
- Resolution of labor disputes – negotiations between employer and employee, pre-trial conflict settlement, representation of clients at the Labor Inspectorate (Labor Dispute Committee) or in court.
- Recovery of damages caused by an employee – legal support for employers in cases of material damage caused by employee actions or omissions; determining liability and compensation requirements, as well as defending employees from unjustified claims.
- Employment of foreign workers – support for employers hiring foreign workers for short-term employment, assistance with document preparation, and obtaining work visas (D-visas) for foreign nationals.
- Drafting employment contracts and related documents – development and expert analysis of employment contracts, job descriptions, non-disclosure agreements (NDA), liability agreements, and other documents governing relations between employer and employee.
Each of these areas requires a thoughtful approach and deep knowledge of legislation. Let’s examine more closely how exactly we can help you in each mentioned situation.
Recovery of Unpaid Wages
One of the most common issues is an employer’s failure to pay wages. If your salary is delayed or has not been paid at all, we can help recover the money owed to you. Estonian law supports the employee: in case of late payment, you have the right to claim not only the unpaid salary itself but also interest for each day of delay. You can request unpaid wages within three years from the date they were due. However, it is better not to wait until the last moment—the sooner you begin the process, the greater your chances for swift justice.
What Should You Do if Your Employer Fails to Pay Wages?
Our lawyers take all necessary steps for the forced recovery of unpaid wages. First, we negotiate with your employer—sometimes a legally sound letter is enough to resolve the issue amicably. If negotiations fail, we prepare a claim to the Labour Dispute Committee (Töövaidluskomisjon) demanding payment of unpaid wages. Filing a claim with the committee is free for employees (no state fee), and disputes there are resolved relatively quickly (usually within 45 days). The Committee’s decision is binding unless contested in court. If your employer disagrees with the Committee’s decision, we will help you file a lawsuit, where a final and legally binding decision will be made. We support clients at every step—from document preparation to representation at committee or court hearings.
A separate case worth mentioning is employer bankruptcy. If your employer becomes insolvent, we will advise you on how to receive compensation through the Unemployment Insurance Fund (Töötukassa). Estonian law provides compensation for employees in the event of employer bankruptcy—for example, unpaid wages may be compensated up to three months of an employee’s average salary. Our specialists will assist you in gathering the necessary documents and applying for the compensation you are entitled to.
Challenging an Unlawful Dismissal
An unlawful dismissal is a difficult situation for an employee, but the law provides opportunities to restore justice. If you’ve been dismissed without valid reasons or proper procedure, we will help you challenge the dismissal. Estonian labour law strictly regulates the procedure for terminating employment contracts, and any dismissal without legal grounds is considered invalid. Our task is to prove that the employer’s stated reason for dismissal is incorrect or violates legal requirements.
What Should You Do if You’ve Been Unlawfully Dismissed in Estonia?
The deadline for filing a complaint is critical. According to the law, an employee has 30 calendar days from receiving the dismissal notice to challenge it. This deadline begins from the day you received the written notice, not from the last working day. Missing the 30-day deadline automatically validates the dismissal. We act quickly to ensure you don’t miss the deadline: advising you on evidence collection, assisting in preparing your claim for court or a complaint to the Labour Dispute Committee (the specific body depends on the situation). Dismissal can be challenged in two ways: by filing a claim in civil court or submitting a complaint to the Labour Dispute Committee. We will suggest the optimal route and represent your interests in the chosen forum.
The goal of challenging a dismissal is to restore your labour rights. If dismissal is deemed unlawful, the employee can demand reinstatement and compensation for wages lost during forced absence from work. If returning to your previous position is impossible or undesirable, you can seek monetary compensation. By law, compensation for unlawful dismissal can reach up to three average monthly salaries of the employee. Our lawyers aim to secure the highest possible compensation or the best terms for an amicable settlement, depending on your priorities. We offer comprehensive support to protect your reputation and financial interests following an unjust dismissal.
Resolving Labour Disputes and Representation
Not all conflicts require court proceedings—often disputes can be settled through negotiations. Eesti Firma acts as mediator and representative in all types of labour disputes, seeking the most beneficial solution for the client. We conduct out-of-court negotiations between the employee and employer, helping the parties hear each other, presenting legally sound arguments, and working towards a compromise. Our goal is to resolve conflicts amicably whenever possible, saving your time, money, and nerves. However, if a peaceful solution proves impossible, we are ready to represent your interests in official proceedings.
From filing a complaint to court representation: comprehensive legal support
Our lawyers have extensive experience in handling cases before the Labour Inspectorate, Labour Dispute Committee, and Estonian courts. We thoroughly understand the procedures of these institutions and convincingly represent our client’s interests. For example, you can appeal to the Labour Dispute Committee without paying a state fee, and its decisions often provide quicker outcomes. However, the Committee does not handle all types of disputes—some complex cases (e.g., discrimination or moral damages) require immediate court action. We clearly explain potential solutions and perspectives to clients for each individual case. Representation in court for employment disputes is one of our key practice areas. We prepare all necessary procedural documents (claims, applications, responses to claims), collect evidence, and involve witnesses or experts when needed. Court proceedings require not only knowledge of the law but also the ability to build an effective defense strategy—our team successfully combines both.
It is important to remember that certain employment disputes have statutory time limits for filing claims. Besides the already mentioned 30-day deadline for contesting dismissal, there are other limitation periods: 3 years for salary claims, 4 months for other employment disputes not related to salary or dismissal, and 12 months for the employer’s compensation claims. We ensure all claims are filed timely to protect your legal rights from expiring.
Compensation for damages caused by employees
Employers often face situations where an employee causes damage to the company due to fault or negligence: property damage, loss of valuables, confidential information leaks, or other losses. We provide legal assistance to employers in holding employees accountable and recovering damages. According to Estonian labour law, employees are fully liable for intentionally caused damages. In cases of negligence or simple mistakes, liability may be limited, but in cases of gross negligence or intent, the employer may claim full compensation.
Recovering damages from employees: employer’s rights
We begin with a detailed analysis of the situation: determining whether a financial liability agreement was concluded with the employee, examining the circumstances of the damage, and evaluating evidence of employee fault. Properly documenting the damage and assessing its extent is crucial. Our lawyers help gather necessary documentation (reports, estimates, expert evaluations) and establish a causal link between employee actions and company losses. We then prepare a formal claim for voluntary damage compensation—often, a legally sound claim motivates employees to settle. If an agreement cannot be reached, we prepare and file a court claim.
Keep in mind that the employer’s claim for employee damages must be filed within 12 months from the discovery of damage. We strictly monitor this timeframe to ensure the employer retains their right to compensation. We also assist employers in properly drafting financial liability agreements with employees handling money, goods, or valuable assets. Such agreements allow employees to assume responsibility even if damage occurs without their fault, significantly enhancing the employer’s chance of recovery. Eesti Firma lawyers draft these agreements correctly, explain their implications to employees, and ensure compliance with § 75 of the Employment Contracts Act and other regulations. In damage compensation disputes, we represent the employer’s interests before the Labour Dispute Committee (note: the Committee does not handle claims related to workplace accidents or occupational diseases—these cases must be referred directly to court) or directly in court, ensuring a fair resolution.
For employers, it is important not only to recover lost funds but also to maintain the company’s reputation and workplace discipline. Our legal assistance enables civilized, legally compliant conflict resolution and helps prevent similar situations in the future.
Employment of foreign workforce
Estonia attracts many international specialists, and hiring foreign employees has its own particularities. We provide comprehensive legal support to employers wishing to hire foreign workers, as well as foreigners coming to Estonia to work. According to the Aliens Act, when a citizen from a non-EU country comes to Estonia for employment, their work must be pre-registered with the Police and Border Guard Board, and they must have a legal basis for residence (e.g., work visa or residence permit). We handle the entire registration process: accurately filling out and submitting documents, meeting required deadlines and conditions.
How to employ a foreign worker in Estonia?
A key step is the registration of short-term employment. For specialists from third countries (outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland), Estonian law allows work under a short-term permit: the employer submits a notification to the police about hiring the foreigner, after which the foreigner can apply for a short-term category D work visa. Our team assists in obtaining necessary permits and visas quickly. We advise on required documents from the employer (e.g., Unemployment Insurance Fund approval, employment contract, proof of employee qualification) and from the employee (passport, photo, insurance, etc.). We also clarify if the position falls under the annual immigration quota and how to account for it. With extensive experience in dealing with migration authorities, we know all the intricacies of the process and guarantee the legality of employing foreign nationals.
In addition to hiring new employees, we assist with extending work permits, obtaining long-term residence permits for employees, and acquiring the EU Blue Card for highly qualified specialists. Estonia plans to ease regulations on hiring foreigners in 2025 to simplify talent acquisition. Our lawyers stay updated on all legislative changes in advance, ensuring your consultation reflects the latest regulations. With Eesti Firma, hiring foreign workers will become a transparent and straightforward process, eliminating the risks of legal violations or refusals due to incorrectly prepared documents.
Drafting Employment Contracts and Documents
Correctly drafted employment contracts and related documents are essential for successful and secure employment relationships. We provide services for drafting, reviewing, and auditing all documents between employers and employees. Our lawyers ensure every contract term complies with Estonian law and serves the client’s interests. Here are some examples of documents we handle:
- Employment Contract – We draft new contracts or review existing ones to comprehensively outline work conditions, parties’ rights and obligations, probation periods, work schedules, salary, holidays, termination conditions, and more. We consider all nuances of the Employment Contracts Act and the latest legislative changes (e.g., introduction of more flexible work arrangements by 2025).
- Job Description – We assist in preparing clear descriptions of employees’ duties. This document protects the employer if an employee fails to perform duties properly and provides employees with clarity on their responsibilities.
- Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) – We ensure the protection of your company’s trade secrets. The NDA specifies the employee’s obligation not to disclose confidential information during and after employment, and defines liability for violations.
- Material Liability Agreement – We prepare contracts establishing employees’ responsibility for the preservation of the employer’s property or funds entrusted to them. This is particularly important for employees handling inventory, cash, or expensive equipment. According to Section 75 of the Employment Contracts Act, an employee may voluntarily accept liability for entrusted property regardless of fault; we draft this agreement accurately to ensure its legal validity.
- Supplementary Agreements – We draft various other agreements between employees and employers, including part-time work, remote work, non-compete clauses (restrictions on working for competitors after termination), training obligations, repayment of study leave, etc. These documents help regulate specific cooperation conditions and prevent future disputes.
Before signing any document, we thoroughly explain each condition to our clients, ensuring clarity for both employees and employers. If you’re an employer, Eesti Firma helps you prepare a complete set of employee documents tailored to your business specifics. If you’re an employee, we review the offered contract or agreement, highlight potential risks, and protect your interests in negotiations with the employer. Properly drafted documents prevent labor disputes—we ensure your paperwork is impeccable.
Why Choose Eesti Firma?
Eesti Firma has established itself as a reliable partner for businesses and individuals in Estonia. Our professionalism is backed by extensive experience and the trust of hundreds of clients. When seeking legal assistance in employment law, you receive:
- Expertise and Experience: Over 10 years of handling Estonian law, profound knowledge of labor legislation and all related procedures. We’ve successfully resolved numerous labor disputes, securing wage payments, job reinstatements, and compensations for our clients.
- Individual Approach: Each situation is unique. We thoroughly analyze your case details and craft a strategy aligned with your objectives—whether it’s a peaceful settlement or a principled court battle. You always understand the steps taken and why.
- Promptness and Clarity: In labor matters, timing is often critical. We quickly respond to inquiries, promptly prepare necessary documents, and represent your interests, adhering strictly to procedural deadlines.
- Comprehensive Service: No need to seek different specialists for related issues. In addition to labor law, Eesti Firma provides services in commercial law, civil law, tax consulting, and migration assistance. For example, if a labor dispute involves company liquidation or tax issues, we have relevant experts on our team.
- Confidentiality and Ethics: We value your trust. All consultations are strictly confidential. Our lawyers adhere to ethical standards and always act in the client’s best interests.
We take pride in our reputation built on responsible handling of every case. Our goal isn’t just to resolve your current issue, but to help you avoid similar situations in the future. By protecting your rights, we strengthen your confidence in tomorrow.
Your Rights and Interests – a Priority for Eesti Firma Lawyers
Contact us for consultation or to request legal assistance in employment matters. We’ll prove why Eesti Firma is your best choice for solving any employment disputes and labor law issues in Estonia. Your peace of mind and fairness in work relationships is our job!
