When you work hard to support yourself and your family, you deserve to be paid fairly and on time. Unfortunately, many employers fail to meet these legal obligations, leaving employees struggling to recover the wages they are owed. If you’re facing this situation, you’re not alone. Our dedicated employment law attorneys are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you’ve earned, and to which you are entitled.

We understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be when your employer withholds your pay. That’s why our aggressive legal team is committed to holding employers accountable. Our experience as employment lawyers recovering unpaid wages allows us to take swift and decisive action on your behalf.

Unpaid wages occur when an employer fails to compensate an employee for all the time they’ve worked. This can happen in several ways, including:

  • Failure to Pay Overtime: If you work more than 40 hours a week, federal and state laws often require employers to pay you overtime. Some employers try to avoid these payments by misclassifying employees or “forgetting” to pay overtime rates.
  • Withholding Final Paychecks: When you leave a job, either voluntarily or involuntarily, you’re entitled to receive your final paycheck. Some employers unlawfully delay or withhold these payments.
  • Failure to Pay Minimum Wage: Employers are required to pay at least the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. If you’re being paid less, you’re legally entitled to pursue the difference.
  • Unpaid Commissions or Bonuses: If your employment contract or company policies promise commissions or bonuses, your employer must honor them. Refusing to pay these amounts could be a violation of wage laws.
  • Off-the-Clock Work: If your employer requires you to work before or after your scheduled shift (like setting up equipment, cleaning, or attending meetings), you’re entitled to be paid for that time.

These are just a few examples of wage violations. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as unpaid wages, our employment law attorneys can provide a clear assessment of your case.

Experienced Legal Support for Unpaid Wages

Dealing with unpaid wages can be emotionally and financially draining. The good news is you don’t have to fight alone. Our experienced legal team is ready to stand up for you. Here’s how we can help:

  1. Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We’ll review your situation, listen to your story, and identify any wage violations that have occurred. This first step is critical to building a strong legal strategy.
  2. Demand Letters and Negotiation: Sometimes, a strongly worded demand letter from an attorney is enough to compel an employer to pay. We’ll leverage our legal expertise to demand payment and seek a resolution without unnecessary delays.
  3. Filing a Wage Claim: If negotiations fail, we’ll help you file a claim with the appropriate state labor agency or federal Department of Labor. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure every form is properly completed and submitted.
  4. Litigation and Lawsuits: If your employer refuses to pay, we’re not afraid to file a lawsuit. Our aggressive approach sends a clear message that we won’t back down until justice is served.

With every step of the process, we’ll keep you informed and empowered. Our goal is to relieve your stress, protect your rights, and secure the unpaid wages you’re entitled to receive.

Employers use a variety of tactics to avoid paying workers the wages they’ve earned. Recognizing these tactics can help you protect yourself and seek timely legal assistance. Here are some of the most common employer strategies:

  • Misclassification of Employees: Employers may classify workers as “independent contractors” to avoid paying overtime, benefits, and certain wages.
  • Timekeeping Manipulation: Some employers alter time records to show fewer hours worked, thereby reducing the amount of pay.
  • Withholding Final Paychecks: Employers may claim you’re ineligible for your final paycheck due to “unresolved issues” or “company property” that hasn’t been returned.
  • Misleading Policies: Employers may claim you’re “salaried” and, therefore, ineligible for overtime, even if your role qualifies for overtime pay under the law.
  • Threats and Retaliation: Some employers attempt to intimidate workers by threatening to fire them or take other adverse actions if they ask about unpaid wages.

If your employer is using any of these tactics, you need to act quickly. Delays could affect your ability to recover your wages. Our employment law attorneys know how to recognize these schemes and will not let your employer take advantage of you.

Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in employment law and have a proven track record of handling complex discrimination cases. We offer support in the following areas:

  • Case Evaluation: We analyze your situation to determine if discrimination has occurred and identify the best legal approach.
  • Filing Complaints: Assistance in filing complaints with relevant bodies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or state agencies.
  • Litigation Support: If needed, we’ll represent you in court to fight for justice and compensation.
  • Negotiations: Advocating on your behalf during mediation or settlement discussions.

Choosing the right legal team to represent you in an unpaid wages claim is crucial. Here’s why so many employees trust our firm to fight for their rights:

  • Aggressive Legal Representation: We don’t back down from employers, large corporations, or their legal teams. We’ll fight relentlessly to ensure you get every dollar you’re owed.
  • Personalized Approach: Your story matters to us. We’ll take the time to understand your situation, develop a tailored strategy, and keep you informed every step of the way.
  • Contingency Fee Representation: You’ll never have to pay upfront fees for our services. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case through settlement or trial.

Don’t let your employer’s misconduct go unchecked. Our attorneys are ready to fight for your unpaid wages and hold your employer accountable.

What does employment law cover?

Employment law regulates the complex employer-employee relationship, covering rights and responsibilities such as wage regulations, discrimination protections, workplace safety, wrongful termination, and worker rights like rest and meal breaks, wage an hour issues, and overtime. Employment lawyers, with their experience in this field, navigate these issues to ensure compliance and uphold the rights and obligations of both employers and employees in the workplace.

Do I need an attorney for my employment law claim?

While some individuals  resolve disputes through negotiation, situations where agreements aren’t reached often necessitate hiring an employment lawyer. Usually, an employer will bring in legal counsel as soon as there is a potential employment law claim. Individuals may seek legal representation from organizations like the California Civil Rights Department if unable to settle disputes independently. Employment lawyers specialize in handling these issues, safeguarding claimants’ rights and pursuing fair compensation when needed.  A contingent fee attorney will not charge you anything unless and until there is a recovery of money.

How do I choose the right attorney for my employment law claim?

Navigating employment law can be challenging due to the discrepancy in resources between individuals and their employers. Finding an employment lawyer willing to take on your case despite these odds is vital. When seeking the right employment law attorney, prioritize those with a track record of representing workers, who will listen to your story, and who you feel you can trust. Additionally, choose employment lawyers who demonstrate a client-centric approach, ensuring they prioritize your needs, listen to your perspective and story, and advocate fiercely on your behalf.

How long do I have to bring an employment law claim?

Time is of the essence. Depending on the basis for your claim, there may be steps you need to take in as little as a year. Certain claims must be brought before a state agency before they can be brought in court. Once a statute of limitations has passed, you will not be able to bring your case in court. So reach out to an employment lawyer as soon as possible to ensure the deadline to bring your case does not pass.