St. Petersburg Wage Disputes Lawyer
Are you being paid the right amount and on time every pay period? Are you permitted to take your scheduled breaks and lunch? Are you being properly compensated for overtime? If not, you may have the grounds for a valid wage and/or hours dispute lawsuit. Attorney Craig Berman has more than 25 years of legal experience and can help you fight for your rights as afforded under state and federal employment laws.
Fair Labor Standards Act
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) was passed as a federal law in 1938 to protect the basic rights of American workers. Statutes pertaining to the minimum wage, overtime pay and record-keeping are addressed by the FLSA, and all employers are required to adhere to them.
Overtime Compensation Disputes
Some employers will try everything they can to avoid paying their employees overtime wages, which is wrong and illegal. If you feel you have been shorted or manipulated out of receiving overtime pay, attorney Berman can help you file a formal complaint with the right employment agency and take your employer to court in order to secure the overtime wages you have earned.
Unpaid Wages
It is never acceptable for an employee to be denied the wages they have worked hard to earn. Even if the company is struggling financially, your employer must always pay your wages. If you are grappling with an employment law issue pertaining to unpaid wages, contact experienced employment lawyer Craig Berman today.
Severance Issues
If you are laid off or resign, your employer may offer you a severance package. Severances are typically spelled out during termination discussions with concrete terms for both parties. If you are experiencing issues relative to a severance package, attorney Berman can help you navigate your legal options and proceed with the best plan of action for resolving the matter.
Wage And Hour Disputes FAQs In St. Petersburg
If you are dealing with unpaid wages, overtime issues or pay disputes in St. Petersburg or the surrounding Tampa Bay area, you likely have questions about your rights. Below are answers to common concerns employees raise when facing wage and hour violations.
How long do I have to file a claim for unpaid wages or overtime in Florida?
Under federal law, most wage and hour claims fall under the FLSA. You generally have two years to file a claim or up to three years if the violation is found to be willful. Acting quickly allows an attorney to preserve records and strengthen your case.
Can my employer avoid paying overtime by classifying me as an “independent contractor” or putting me on a salary?
No. Simply labeling a worker as an independent contractor or paying a salary does not remove overtime obligations. The law looks at the actual nature of the work relationship. Misclassification is a common issue, and a lawyer can review your role to determine whether you should receive overtime pay.
Is it legal for my employer to require me to perform tasks “off-the-clock” before or after my shift starts?
No. Employers must compensate employees for all hours worked, including tasks performed before clocking in or after clocking out. This can include setting up equipment, completing paperwork or attending required meetings. Failing to pay for this time may violate federal wage laws.
What can I do if my employer makes illegal deductions from my paycheck for uniforms, tools or cash register shortages?
Certain deductions are unlawful if they reduce your pay below minimum wage or cut into overtime compensation. Employers cannot shift normal business expenses onto employees in a way that violates wage laws. If you notice unexplained or improper deductions, you should document them and speak with an attorney.
How is my overtime pay calculated if I am a tipped employee or earn commissions as part of my wages?
Overtime for tipped or commission-based employees is calculated using your regular rate of pay, which may include tips or commissions. Employers must properly calculate this rate and apply the correct overtime multiplier. Errors in these calculations can lead to underpayment.
Working with a skilled lawyer to help understand your rights is the first step toward recovering the wages you have earned.
Find The Resolution You Deserve – Schedule A Free Consultation Now
Attorney Berman has been practicing law for over 25 years and is highly respected in the legal community for the work he has done for Florida clients. If you are experiencing a wage and hours dispute, he is pleased to offer his services. He will personally handle every aspect of your case from start to finish. Don’t delay any longer, call Mr. Berman now.
Berman Law Firm, P.A., provides trustworthy and effective representation to clients in Tampa and St. Petersburg facing wage and hours disputes. Contact the office today at 727-547-3316 to schedule a free consultation with an accomplished employment and labor law attorney.