Employees are nowadays faced with several problems that challenge their extreme flexibility, especially within the workplace, where they are often forced to work additional hours without receiving any form of compensation. In the first place, it is not only immoral for employees to be locked out of their wages earned in overtime work, but it goes against the basic principles of labor laws governing working conditions and employees’ remuneration.
However, the problem is that many employees do not know their rights or, at least, do not have the tools to struggle against employers. Here, an unpaid overtime lawyer can be of great help to the worker in question in terms of advice and assistance. In this piece, we will discuss why unpaid overtime claims remain a major issue, how legal aid can aid your case, and what you should do if you think that you’re entitled to this reimbursement.
The Legal Definition of Overtime
Overtime may be described as any additional hours worked over the standard 40 hours a week as legal by federal and state laws. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulates that eligible employees should be paid 1.5 times their normal wage for working overtime. However, not all employees are protected by this law and are entitled to receive overtime pay, as only sometimes job positions and industry can exempt someone from this law. Whether you are claiming that your position is exempt or non-exempt is an important starting point.
Common Signs of Unpaid Overtime
Verification of unpaid wages can sometimes be complicated if employers conceal wages calculated for their employees by refusing to compensate them for overtime work. Some of the familiar signs include being forced to work on ‘off-’duties,’ receiving the same pay as a salary but more often working extra hours, or when the overtime working hours are assigned equivalent to normal working hours.
Even workers, who temporarily undertake activities outside their contractual responsibilities, can become victims of unpaid overtime regulation. Suppose you notice that the hours worked by one employee are not equivalent to what was paid to another employee; then it might be time to investigate further.
How an Unpaid Overtime Lawyer Can Help
The issue of unpaid overtime claims is best described as delicate and often daunting mostly if one is face-to-face with major corporations or unreasonably hostile employers. An unpaid overtime lawyer focuses on employment law and can assess your case, collect proof, and negotiate on your behalf. They can discuss with your employer or agree to take legal action if needed. Also, lawyers help stick to legal time frames, including the time limit for filing a lawsuit, which increases your chances of success.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Wage Violations
If you think you have been unfairly paid or that you have not been paid overtime then there are several measures you have to take. The first step would be to record the number of hours worked, activities performed, and any communication with the employer regarding wages and salaries. Some of the things that can be expected include; checking your employment contract and employee handbooks to know your rights and responsibilities.
It is wise to consult an unpaid overtime lawyer at the initial stage of the process since it provides an understanding of the available legal actions and the legal capacity of the claim. Do not confront your employer without the counsel of your attorney to safeguard yourself from any acts of revenge.
