Federal, state, and class action efforts have resulted in the recovery of over $1.5billion in stolen wages from 2021 to 2023. The Opportunity Institute website says that, unfortunately, wage theft is the most profitable form of theft in the United States.
Diligent workers still face withheld wages, unpaid overtime, and missed meals and breaks. Being in this kind of situation can be despairing and stressful, not to mention costly.
According to San Diego unpaid wages attorney Marisol Jimenez, you need an unpaid wages attorney who can advocate for your rights and facilitate the processing of unpaid wages.
Let’s learn more about pay rights, how to build a strong case, and how to receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Unpaid Wages and Your Rights
Most employees deal with unpaid wages throughout their careers. Some employees remain unaware that their employers are underpaying them.
Knowledge of unpaid wages empowers you to fight for your rights. Your employer should pay you per hour, including overtime, in compliance with local labor laws. If you don’t receive payment for a pay period, you are entitled to request it from your company.
Keep your pay stubs and hours to support your claim. It is advised to familiarize yourself with labor laws since they vary.
The Role of an Unpaid Wages Attorney
A wage dispute attorney can assist you in understanding your legal rights. His or her extensive experience in handling employment issues allows them to properly evaluate your case. Your attorney can also look at any corresponding violations and claims. With their help, you can collect relevant documents and evidence, like pay stubs and employment records.
Legal professionals can help you settle disputes with your employer to avoid a lengthy court battle. If necessary, they can represent you in court to fight for your rights and argue for fair compensation.
A lack of legal representation may make it difficult to recover unpaid wages.
Common Types of Wage Violations
Knowing the types of wage violations allows you to recognize any incident that violates your pay rights.
- Unpaid overtime happens when the average employer does not pay employees for hours worked beyond normal working hours.
- Misclassification refers to the incorrect classification of workers by employers. In misclassification cases, employees are wrongly classified as independent contractors, denying them rights that are given to regular workers.
- Unpaid wages refer to salaries that employees do not receive for various reasons. Under the Fair Labor Standard Act (FLSA) and other state labor laws, withholding wages is usually prohibited.
- Improper paycheck deductions can violate and reduce your earnings.
Don’t hesitate to report these kinds of situations to your local labor department or wage enforcement agency. Keep in mind that employment laws prohibit employer retaliation, allowing you to report unfair labor practices without concern for your employment status.
How an Attorney Can Help You Recover Lost Wages
When it comes to unpaid wages, attorneys are well-versed in the law and can offer valuable advice. They will use the evidence and documents you have collected to support your claim.
Your case may be filed with a labor agency or litigated. Understanding labor laws simplifies maximizing your benefits.
Choosing the Right Unpaid Wages Attorney for Your Case
With thousands of lawyers specializing in employment law, you might find it difficult to choose the best attorney for your case.
The first thing you need to look for are the ones with proven track records in similar cases. You can find reviews from clients and testimonials easily to assess their reputation.
You can meet with several candidates to discuss their experience, strategy, and fees.
Communication is also vital when you are fighting for your rights. Find someone who has genuine interest in your case and can immediately attend to your concerns.
Don’t forget to inquire about payment structures and lawyer fees. On a contingency basis that is common for most lawyers, they will only be paid if they win your case. Being aware of costs first can help you plan a budget to avoid any financial surprises in the future.
