Fortis Employment law represents Maryland workers with discrimination, wrongful termination, and hostile work environment cases on full or partial contingency.
Start today with a free consultation.
Fortis' Joseph Gibson is 'among the most influential and respected' employment attorneys in Maryland.
influential and respected
Maryland Daily Record (2024) (Employment Law Powerlist)



About
The Maryland employment lawyer
I’ve built my career on a simple principle—you deserve dignity and respect in the workplace.
When an employer fires you unfairly, harasses you, or discriminates against you, it doesn’t just threaten your career—it affects your livelihood, your family, and your future. That’s why I’ve dedicated my practice to standing up for Maryland employees and holding employers accountable.
As an experienced employment lawyer, I use every tool available to fight for justice, whether through demand letters, EEOC complaints, or litigation in Maryland’s state and federal courts. My work has earned recognition, including Employment Lawyer of the Year (Finance Monthly, 2023) and one of Maryland’s “most influential and respected” employment attorneys (Maryland Daily Record, 2024).
Joseph was more than understanding, sympathetic, and caring—he listened and actually heard me.
Kathi C.
Wrongful Termination
He's phenomenal. He gave me the information and confidence necessary to achieve a satisfactory outcome.
Austin W.
Unpaid Wages
Joseph guided me with expertise and was willing to advocate for me in ways I was afraid to. Highly recommend!
Gaby R.
Wrongful Termination
My experience with him was amazing. I could not have asked for a better person to represent me.
Vayron M.
Discrimination
He's the very best in the business. I could tell he genuinely cared about me and the success of my case.
the best in the business
Kayla P. (Wrongful Termination)
Expertise at every stage of an employment lawsuit
Employment cases generally follow a three-stage process: demand, administrative, and court. At each step, I provide strategic guidance to maximize your chances of success.
I start by crafting strong demand letters to push for an early resolution. If that doesn’t work, I handle EEOC and MCCR complaints, ensuring your case is properly filed and argued.
If litigation becomes necessary, I take your fight to state or federal court, aggressively advocating for your rights. No matter where you are in the process, I’m here to help you hold your employer accountable.
Demand
Many cases start with a demand letter, which notifies your employer of the legal violations and seeks a resolution before filing a formal complaint. A strong demand letter can lead to a settlement, avoiding a lengthy legal process.
Administrative
If a demand doesn’t resolve the issue, the next step is filing a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR). These agencies investigate workplace discrimination, retaliation, and harassment claims. Filing with the EEOC or MCCR is often a required step before taking your case to court.
Court
If the agency process doesn’t result in a resolution, you may have the right to sue in state or federal court. Litigation involves filing a lawsuit, gathering evidence, and presenting your case in front of a judge or jury. While most cases settle before trial, some go all the way to a verdict.
Fees
The contingency employment lawyer
Hiring an employment attorney shouldn’t mean draining your savings or taking on enormous financial risk. That’s why I created Fortis Flex™, a contingency-based fee structure designed to make high-quality legal representation accessible and predictable. Unlike traditional firms that require large retainers and bill by the hour, Fortis Flex™ combines a flat monthly fee with a success-based contingency, so you get dedicated legal advocacy without surprise costs.
This model ensures I’m fully invested in winning your case, whether through negotiation, administrative action, or litigation. You get a clear, upfront pricing structure while I take on the risk alongside you.
If you’re facing workplace injustice and need a lawyer who’s both aggressive and affordable, Fortis Flex™ is designed for you. Start with a free consultation.
Resources
Employment law insight







Your job. Your rights.
Our fight.
Welcome to Fortis Employment Law. As an experienced Maryland employment attorney, I represent workers facing wrongful termination or workplace harassment on my Fortis Flex™ contingency plan.
Contact me today for a free consultation.
Practice Areas
For workplace justice
Being unfairly fired can leave lasting financial, professional, and emotional scars. As a wrongful termination lawyer, I’m here to guide you through the legal process—from filing an EEOC complaint to presenting your case before a jury—fighting for the workplace justice you deserve.
Unpaid Wages
You deserve to be paid for the work you’ve done—let me help you recover what you’re owed.
Defamation
False statements that harm your reputation can have serious consequences—I’m here to protect your name.
Accommodations
You're entitled to reasonable accommodations for disabilities—know your rights.
Severance
I’ll help you negotiate a fair severance agreement that protects your interests.