Many workers put in extra hours each week, often expecting fair compensation for their efforts. However, some employers exploit their employees by denying them the overtime pay they’re legally entitled to. Employment lawyers, like the skilled professionals at Castronovo & McKinney, help employees fight for justice and recover unpaid wages, ensuring compliance with federal and state labor laws.
Understanding Overtime Laws
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Overtime must be compensated at a rate of at least 1.5 times the employee’s regular hourly rate. Common overtime violations include:
- Misclassifying employees as exempt to avoid paying overtime
- Failing to pay for time worked off the clock
- Not including bonuses or commissions in overtime calculations
- Requiring employees to work through meal or rest breaks without pay
These practices are illegal and can result in significant financial losses for employees.
How Employment Lawyers Address Overtime Violations
Employment lawyers play a crucial role in addressing overtime violations. Their expertise includes:
- Examining payroll records to identify discrepancies
- Determining whether employees have been misclassified as exempt
- Filing complaints with the Department of Labor or pursuing lawsuits
- Negotiating settlements to recover unpaid wages and damages
By working with an experienced attorney, employees can hold employers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
What to Do If You’re Denied Overtime Pay
If you suspect that your employer is violating overtime laws, take the following steps:
- Keep detailed records of your hours worked, pay received, and communications with your employer
- Request clarification about your pay or classification if discrepancies arise
- Consult an employment lawyer to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process
Acting quickly is essential to ensure compliance with statutes of limitations for wage claims.
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney?
Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, has a proven track record of successfully representing employees in unpaid overtime cases across New Jersey. Their team is dedicated to holding employers accountable and securing full compensation for their clients.
Don’t let unpaid overtime go unchallenged. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today to protect your rights and recover the wages you’ve earned.
