Employees trust their employers to compensate them fairly and in a timely manner. When an employer fails to meet those expectations, the employee-employer trust is broken. Employers who fail to follow wage and hour laws may not pay employees on schedule, ask them to work without pay, or change the agreed-upon compensation. When this happens, employees should consult an El Segundo wage and hour lawyer to explore their legal options. An employee rights attorney could protect your rights and fight for fair treatment.
Employees can report wage and hour violations to the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) by filing a claim outlining the violation. Employees should include any supporting documentation, such as work schedules, employer communications, and pay stubs.
After submitting a claim, an employee will be contacted regarding a mediation hearing to settle the dispute. Employees in El Segundo may represent themselves at these meetings, but hiring a wage and hour attorney is recommended to ensure the best possible outcome.
The DLSE will determine if an employer violated California’s labor laws. If found guilty, the employer must repay the employee’s wages with interest and may face potential fines. If the DLSE decides that the employer did not violate the law, employees or their legal counsel can appeal the ruling in civil court.
Employees are protected from employer retaliation for filing a claim. Employers cannot fire or demote employees, reduce their pay, or alter their work conditions. These actions violate whistleblower protections and can result in legal consequences.
Labor laws are complex, and the claims process can be overwhelming. With legal representation, employees do not have to face their employer alone. An experienced wage and hour lawyer in El Segundo could offer several benefits.
Labor laws governing wages, hours, and working conditions often include exceptions or refer to prior rulings for clarification. A seasoned attorney could help a person navigate the legal system and interpret existing law.
Workplace lawyers are knowledgeable about whistleblower laws that protect employees from employer retaliation. They could advocate for employees to ensure they do not work in a toxic environment.
While many wage and hour disputes never go to trial, some require litigation. Experienced legal counsel has the skills needed to effectively represent and advocate for employees in a courtroom.
Unpaid wages are theft. An attorney could help employees recover unpaid wages, such as unpaid overtime, missed breaks, or unpaid leave.
Upholding wage and hour laws is essential for a healthy work environment. It maintains the employer-employee contract that is fundamental to a robust economy. Employee Civil Rights Group is dedicated to helping employees receive fair treatment in the workplace.
A significant portion of a person’s life is typically spent in the workplace. It should be a safe environment where you are fairly compensated for your work. If employers delay payment or ask you to work extra hours without appropriate compensation, they break the trust between employees and employers.
This breach can create a growing gap in working relationships. Employees may begin to wonder if their employers are violating their rights in other ways. As trust declines, the work environment becomes toxic, taking a mental and emotional toll on employees.
If you or someone you know has experienced wage theft, speak with an El Segundo wage and hour lawyer to discuss your case and review your options. If you have filed a complaint and need representation, the Employee Civil Rights Group could assist you.
