Unpaid Overtime Needs Dedicated Representation
Unless you fall into an exempted class, federal law requires employees who have worked over 40 hours a week to receive one and a half times their normal pay rate. This is outlined in the Fair Labor Standard Act (FLSA) and can protect you during wage and hour disputes with your employer. Employers often misunderstand or misapply rules to save money at the employee's expense. To learn more about your employee rights, speak with a lawyer who has extensive experience handling unpaid overtime cases.
At the Keogh Law, Ltd., in Chicago, Illinois, we represent employees who have been wrongfully denied overtime pay by their employer. We understand the regulations outlined in the FLSA and related Illinois laws that can be used to protect your rights.
Am I Exempt From Overtime Requirements?
Certain classes of white-collar employees are exempt from receiving overtime pay. Generally speaking, the exempt or non-exempt status is based on the responsibilities of the employee. Many people incorrectly believe that salaried employees are exempt from receiving overtime, however, salaried employees, as well as hourly employees, may be eligible for overtime pay regardless of whether the employer has classified them as exempt employees, even if they are classified as "management."
We will examine all the details surrounding your case to determine the most effective strategies for recovery the pay you deserve. We welcome individual and class action lawsuits and have been recognized throughout Cook County for our effective representation.
Helping You Get What You Deserve
Employers are not allowed to exchange overtime pay for personal days and other benefits. Employers are not allowed to have meetings on "off-the-clock" time. You're entitled to receive overtime pay for the extra hours you put in. If your employer has not paid you overtime to which you're legally entitled, at Keogh Law, Ltd., we can help you enforce your overtime rights.
Under federal law, if your employer knowingly and willingly refuses to pay you overtime wages, you are entitled not only to the amount owed to you. You may also be entitled to an additional equal amount as liquidated damages, plus attorneys' fees.
Under Illinois law, an employer who willfully withholds overtime pay may be liable to pay the employee a penalty of 2% of the amount of monthly overtime pay arrearage.
Are You Being Paid Minimum Wage?
The Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007 required a minimum wage of $5.85 effective July 24, 2007 and $6.55 effective July 24, 2008. The rate increased to $7.25 effective July 24, 2009. If the state minimum wage law is higher, the employer must follow the state minimum. The minimum wage in Illinois as of July 1, 2007, was $7.50. It was increased to $7.75 for 2008 and $8.00 effective July 2009. In July 2010, it will increase to $8.25. To learn more about your rights, speak with a lawyer who is familiar with the overtime law and how it applies. In northern Illinois, contact Keogh Law, Ltd.
Contact Our Firm Today
To schedule a free consultation with one of our consumer protection lawyers, please call 312-265-3258 or send us an e-mail now. We handle a majority of our cases on a contingency basis.
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