Wage and hour lawsuits are a type of lawsuit that alleges that an employer has violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) or other wage and hour laws. These laws protect workers’ rights to minimum wage, overtime pay, meal breaks, and rest breaks.
Wage and hour lawsuits can be settled out of court or go to trial. If a case goes to trial, a judge or jury will decide whether the employer violated the law and, if so, what damages the employee should be awarded.
Common Wage and Hour Violations
Some of the most common wage and hour violations include:
- Failing to pay minimum wage
- Failing to pay overtime pay
- Misclassifying employees as independent contractors
- Requiring employees to work off the clock
- Failing to provide meal breaks or rest breaks
Wage and Hour Lawsuit Settlements
Wage and hour lawsuit settlements can be large or small, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. However, they can be a significant source of compensation for workers who have been harmed by their employers.
In 2022, the top 10 private-plaintiff wage and hour class action lawsuits in the United States resulted in settlements totaling $449.05 million. This represents an increase from $253.5 million in 2018.
If you believe that you have been the victim of a wage and hour violation, you should contact an attorney to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you understand your rights and the potential value of your case.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the amount of a wage and hour lawsuit settlement:
- The severity of the violation
- The number of employees affected
- The amount of damages suffered by the employees
- The strength of the evidence against the employer
If you are considering filing a wage and hour lawsuit, it is important to keep in mind that the process can be complex and time-consuming. However, it may be worth it in the end if you are able to recover the compensation you deserve.
Here are some tips for finding an attorney to represent you in a wage and hour lawsuit:
- Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other workers.
- Search online for attorneys who specialize in wage and hour law.
- Contact your state’s bar association for a referral.
Once you have found a few potential attorneys, be sure to interview them carefully. Ask them about their experience with wage and hour law cases and their fee structure.
It is also important to choose an attorney who you feel comfortable with and who you believe will be a strong advocate for your rights.
