Employees in Japanese companies are covered by a variety of legal standards. The working week is legally described as eight hours a day, up to a maximum of 40 hours a week. However, employers must pay overtime for any extra hours worked, and must provide holidays to all employees who have been with the company for more than six months. Sick leave is not guaranteed and many Japanese firms expect employees to take sick leave out of their holiday entitlement. Maternity leave entitlement is up to one year. Commuting costs are also covered. If you become involved in a dispute with your employer, they must provide at least 30 days’ notice of dismissal. If you need advice or assistance, there are several options. Unions are common and are present in nearly all workplaces. They may be able to help you if you are a member or if you are prepared to become one. However, some may not allow contractors to join and the language barrier will be a problem if you don’t speak Japanese. If you need legal advice, the Tokyo Bar Association (www.toben.or.jp) can provide advice in English at low cost, or for free if you can show you are facing financial hardship. The metropolitan government’s Labor Consultation Center (03 5211 2346) also offers advice in English for limited periods in the afternoon. For general advice on employment matters, and an overview of Japanese labour laws, contact the Foreigners Employment Service Center in Roppongi (03 3588 8369, www.tfemploy.go.jp).