If your employer has failed to pay you fair wages, denied overtime, or violated wage and hour laws, you have the right to take legal action. A Washington wage and hour lawyer can help you recover unpaid wages, fight against workplace exploitation, and ensure your rights as a worker are upheld. At Crosner Legal, we are dedicated to standing up for workers and holding employers accountable for wage violations.
Understanding Wage and Hour Laws in Washington
Wage and hour laws exist to protect employees from unfair pay practices, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work. These regulations govern several key aspects of employment:
Minimum Wage: Washington State has one of the highest minimum wages in the country, and employers are legally required to pay workers at least the state or local minimum wage. If you are being paid less than what is mandated, your employer is violating wage laws.
Overtime Pay: Employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate of pay. Some employers try to avoid paying overtime by misclassifying employees or pressuring them to work “off the clock.” If this has happened to you, you may be entitled to back pay.
Meal and Rest Breaks: Washington labor laws require that employees receive designated break periods. Workers must receive a paid 10-minute break for every four hours worked and an unpaid 30-minute meal break if working more than five hours. If your employer denies these legally mandated breaks, they are violating your rights.
Unpaid Wages: Employers may engage in wage theft by withholding wages, delaying payments, or misclassifying workers as independent contractors to avoid benefits and overtime pay. If your employer has failed to compensate you fully, legal action can help recover what you are owed.
Do You Need a Wage and Hour Lawyer?
Many workers face wage violations without realizing they have legal options. You should consult a wage and hour attorney if:
- Your employer refuses to pay you for all hours worked.
- You have been denied legally required overtime pay.
- You are misclassified as an independent contractor.
- You did not receive proper meal or rest breaks.
- You suspect your employer has engaged in wage theft.
What to Look for in a Lawyer?
Choosing the right lawyer is critical to your case. When searching for legal representation, consider the following factors:
Experience in Employment Law: Not all lawyers are well-versed in employment law, and wage and hour disputes require specialized knowledge. A lawyer with extensive experience in employment law will understand both state and federal labor laws, including Washington’s specific wage and hour regulations. This expertise ensures they can navigate the complexities of your case and develop a strong legal strategy to fight for your rights.
Proven Success in Wage Cases: A lawyer’s past success can be an indicator of their ability to handle your case effectively. Look for a legal professional or firm with a history of recovering unpaid wages, overtime pay, and other compensation for workers. Client testimonials, case results, and online reviews can provide insight into their track record. A successful lawyer will have experience negotiating settlements, winning court cases, and holding employers accountable for wage violations.
Commitment to Worker Rights: The best wage and hour lawyers are passionate about protecting employees from workplace exploitation. They should demonstrate a commitment to fighting for workers rather than representing big corporations. A lawyer who prioritizes worker advocacy will take a proactive approach, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that justice is served. They should also be willing to take on employers of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, to seek fair compensation for their clients.
Why Choose Crosner Legal?
At Crosner Legal, we have a long history of advocating for workers in Washington and beyond. Our team has recovered millions for employees who were victims of wage theft, unpaid overtime, and other workplace violations. We take pride in holding employers accountable and ensuring workers receive the wages they have rightfully earned.
Extensive Experience in Wage and Hour Litigation
Our attorneys possess deep expertise in handling complex wage and hour cases. We are well-versed in both state and federal labor laws, enabling us to effectively represent clients in various industries, including retail, food services, medical, insurance, banking, and securities. Our practice encompasses class actions and multi-plaintiff mass action cases involving:
- Overtime and minimum wage claims
- Misclassification of employees as “exempt” or “independent contractors”
- Unreimbursed business expenses
- Unpaid sales commissions
- Forfeiture of vacation or paid time off
- Denial of meal or rest breaks
- Improper wage deductions
Proven Track Record of Success
Our firm has achieved significant settlements on behalf of our clients. For instance, we secured a $5 million settlement for non-exempt agricultural workers who alleged wage and hour violations, including unpaid overtime and denied meal and rest breaks. These successes reflect our commitment to obtaining justice for employees who have been wronged by their employers.
Passionate and Client-Driven Advocacy
We are a team of passionate, talented, and knowledgeable attorneys and staff who are zealous advocates for our clients. We believe that skill and professionalism are just as important as the ability to connect on a personal level. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to advance employee, consumer, and privacy rights, ensuring that each client receives personalized attention and robust representation.
Commitment to Washington Workers
Recognizing the need for dedicated legal representation in Washington, Crosner Legal expanded its practice with a new office in Seattle in early 2024. This expansion allows us to provide exceptional legal services to employees and consumers throughout the state, focusing on wage and hour disputes, consumer protection, and privacy rights.
Leadership with a Vision
Our founding attorney, Zachary Crosner, established the firm with the goal of standing up for employees, consumers, and individuals whose rights have been violated. Under his leadership, Crosner Legal has helped tens of thousands of individuals obtain restitution and has driven meaningful changes in corporate policies and practices for the benefit of employees and consumers alike.
At Crosner Legal, we are not just your attorneys; we are your steadfast advocates, committed to ensuring that justice is served and that your rights as a worker are protected.
Speak with a Wage and Hour Lawyer Today
If you believe your employer has violated wage and hour laws, don’t wait. A Washington wage and hour attorney at Crosner Legal is ready to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward getting the pay you deserve.