Article Source: Scott & Winters Law Firm, OH
Getting paid for the hours you have worked should be simple. Unfortunately, for many Ohio workers, this is not the reality. Whether it is unpaid overtime, missing a paycheck after quitting or being dismissed, wage theft is more common than people realize. Statistics show that 217,000 workers in Ohio undergo wage theft every year.
An experienced employment attorney in Ohio can assist you in recovering what you are owed, plus penalties and legal fees. Keep reading to discover how an attorney can assist your case.
What Counts as Unpaid Wages?
In Ohio, full-time employment is considered 40 hours a week and not less than 30 hours. The minimum wage is $10.70 per hour for employees not receiving tips and $5.35 per hour for tipped employees.
Unpaid wages in Ohio can take several forms. It could be as simple as not receiving your paycheck, being denied overtime, or being incorrectly classified at work. Some employers might even delay paychecks or withhold bonuses that you are owed. Ohio law and the federal law under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) protect employees from such practices.
The Role of an Experienced Employment Attorney
Evaluating Your Case
An experienced employment attorney will start by evaluating your case. This is done by determining whether your employer’s actions violated Ohio or federal wage laws. Many workers are surprised to learn they have a valid claim, even if they initially thought otherwise.
Gathering Evidence
Your attorney will also help you collect and organize evidence. This includes timecards, pay stubs, emails, texts, and other documents that prove the hours you worked and what you should have earned. This step is important if your employer tries to deny the claims.
Negotiating Payment and Filing a Complaint
In many cases, your lawyer will try to resolve the matter directly with your employer. Sending a demand letter outlining the legal violations and potential penalties can lead to a quicker resolution without going to court.
If that does not work, your attorney can file a formal complaint with the Ohio Department of Commerce or even take the case to court. They will make sure everything is done on time and follow the right legal process.
Why Hiring a Local Ohio Attorney Matters
Employment laws vary by state, and Ohio has its own set of rules. A local attorney understands how courts in the state interpret the wage laws and what kind of tactics local employers might use to avoid paying. This experience can help in building your case.
Additionally, local Ohio attorneys are very familiar with the timelines required for filing claims and local agencies that handle employment disputes. This local knowledge helps speed up the process and increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
Conclusion
No one should fight just to get paid for their work. However, if you ever find yourself in such a position, do not try to handle the situation alone. Reach out to an experienced attorney for a consultation and take the first step toward getting what you deserve.
