The modern economy is defined by the relationship between the worker and the employer. Due to the importance of this relationship, the law affords rights to both of these parties, and these rights must be followed without exception. Unfortunately, there are times when a worker's rights may be infringed upon, and when this happens, they may have no other choice but to file a labor law complaint against the employer. Many workers will be fortunate enough to have avoided the need for these attorneys, but if you are in a position where you need legal guidance, understanding the following couple of questions may help you better understand what needs to be done.
Is It Worth It To Challenge Overtime Pay Violations?
Employers finding ways to avoid paying employees the overtime they have earned is a remarkably common problem. Sadly, there are many employees that will never attempt to fight these transgressions because they assume it will simply not be worth it once attorney fees and courts costs are considered.
Luckily, this does not have to be the case, because many jurisdictions allow you to include legal costs in your claim. You will need to speak with an attorney, however, because some communities have strict rules governing the circumstances under which legal costs may be recovered.
What If You Are Laid Off Before The End Of Your Contract?
There are many employees that work under a contract, but there may come a time when a company will need to make layoffs. Sadly, there may be times when a contractual employee is laid off before the end of their contract, and when this happens, it is not unusual for the employer to resist paying the rest of the contract.
However, it should be noted that in most cases the employee is guaranteed the value of the contract even if they are laid off. As a result, you may be able to recover the money that you were shorted through this type of infringement. While most people want to avoid a lawsuit at all costs, there may be times when stubborn employers will simply refuse any other attempt to right the wrong.
Employees have historically been a relatively vulnerable population, but legal reforms have helped solidify the rights people have while they are at work. Yet, many people are unaware of the various rights that they have while employed, and this may make it difficult for them to protect their rights. By knowing that you may be able to include legal costs in your claim and that contractual employees are owed the full value of the contract when laid off, you will be better positioned to defend yourself against incompetent or unethical employers.
For more information, contact a lawyer in your area like Alterman & Associates LLC.
