Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in Nigeria

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GAVEL & GREY LEGAL PRACTITIONERS

GAVEL & GREY LEGAL PRACTITIONERS

30 minutes Free Consultation
Osogbo, Nigeria

Founded in 2021
5 people in their team
English
About UsLocated in the heart of Nigeria, Gavel & Grey LP stands as a beacon of legal excellence and innovation. Our firm is renowned for its profound expertise in a comprehensive array of legal domains, including Commercial and Corporate Law, Entertainment Law, Intellectual Property, Property...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Understanding the convolutions that may be involved in doing business in Nigeria, we remain committed to proffering top-shelf and broad spectrum legal services to our Clients, to ensure that they have a better business experience. In providing the services, we maintain our INTEGRITY by...
Paddle Solicitors
Ibadan, Nigeria

Founded in 2021
10 people in their team
English
OUR FIRMPaddle Solicitors is a full-service litigation, commercial and dispute resolution law office with a physical office in Ibadan and a virtual office wherein clients are attended to all over the globe.To our clients, we are reliable and professional in handling our various transactions,...
Aelex Legal
Lagos, Nigeria

Founded in 2004
200 people in their team
English
ǼLEX | A Leading Commercial & Dispute Resolution Law FirmǼLEX is a leading Commercial & Dispute Resolution law firm. We are one of the largest full-service law firms in West Africa with offices in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja in Nigeria and Accra, Ghana.We...
Anyigbo Law Firm
Onitsha, Nigeria

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
English
Get To Know Us MoreAnyigbo Law Firm is a full-service firm of legal and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practitioners. As a litigation, commercial and ADR-based firm, we blend ADR and litigation experiences and expertise in achieving the needs of clients in a prompt, efficient and...
Y. C. MAIKYAU & CO.
Abuja, Nigeria

Founded in 2003
50 people in their team
English
Who We AreABOUT YC Maikyau and CoYC Maikyau & Co. is a full-service law firm dedicated to serving the legal needs of clients in both the Nigerian and International environments. With the objective of providing legal services on the platform of honesty, sincerity, and dedication. And these...
Wilcox Abereton & Co
Port Harcourt, Nigeria

English
Wilcox Abereton & Co is a Port Harcourt based full service law firm that delivers a wide spectrum of legal services across corporate and commercial law, real estate, debt recovery and restructuring, family law and personal injury. The firm provides transactional and advisory services for business...
Lakeshaw Attorneys
Ilorin, Nigeria

Founded in 2018
4 people in their team
Lakeshaw Attorneys is a firm of Legal Practitioners registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria. The firm was founded in the year 2018. The organisation is made up of three partners and a Managing Partner. At Lakeshaw Attorneys, we run training programmes for interns and young...
A A Abdullahi Law Firm
Kano, Nigeria

Founded in 2020
33 people in their team
Arabic
English
Hausa
Kano-Based Law Firm | A A Abdullahi Law Firm  Trusted Legal Solutions GloballyA A Abdullahi Law is a seasoned law firm based in Kano, Nigeria, renowned for its dedication to delivering ethical and professional legal solutions. Our team comprises highly skilled professionals equipped with...
Vantage Attorneys
Abuja, Nigeria

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
VANTAGE ATTORNEYS is a full-service commercial and litigation law firm that provides timely and solution-driven services to clients, both in Nigeria and key international markets.We have gained a reputation for handling complex legal issues and translating opportunities into reality for our...
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About Wage & Hour Law in Nigeria

Wage and hour laws in Nigeria are designed to regulate the compensation and working hours of employees to ensure fair treatment and prevent exploitation. These laws are encapsulated within various statutes, with the primary legislation being the Nigerian Labour Act. The Act prescribes the minimum wage, overtime, working conditions, and the legal framework for dispute resolution. These regulations aim to protect both employees and employers by promoting a balanced work environment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer specializing in wage and hour law can be crucial in several scenarios:

  • Disputes over unpaid wages or overtime compensation.
  • Unlawful deductions from wages.
  • Discrepancies in minimum wage compliance.
  • Wrongful termination related to wage issues.
  • Employment contract reviews to ensure alignment with current laws.
  • Resolving harassment or discrimination issues related to wage inequalities.

A lawyer can help navigate these complex issues, provide clarity on legal rights, and represent individuals or organizations in disputes or negotiations.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of Nigerian wage and hour laws include:

  • Minimum Wage: Nigeria has a national minimum wage set by the government, which employers must comply with.
  • Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with provisions for overtime compensation.
  • Overtime: Employees who work beyond the standard hours are entitled to overtime pay, usually calculated at a rate higher than the regular pay rate.
  • Leave Entitlements: The law stipulates entitlements for annual leave, maternity leave, and sick leave.
  • Contracts of Employment: Written contracts are necessary, outlining terms of employment, duties, and remuneration.
  • Dispute Resolution: Procedures for addressing disputes include mediation, arbitration, and recourse to the National Industrial Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the current minimum wage in Nigeria?

The national minimum wage is periodically updated by the government. The latest figure can be obtained from official government releases or labor union contacts.

2. Are employers required to provide overtime payment?

Yes, employers must pay overtime for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek, typically at a higher rate than regular wages.

3. How are disputes over unpaid wages resolved?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or by taking the matter to the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

4. What steps should be taken if an employee believes they are underpaid?

Employees can discuss with their employer, consult their union representative, or seek legal advice for potential claims.

5. Are all workers entitled to minimum wage?

Most workers are entitled, but there may be exceptions, such as apprentices or informal sector workers.

6. What is the standard maternity leave entitlement in Nigeria?

Nigerian law generally provides for at least 12 weeks of maternity leave, but this can vary depending on employment terms.

7. Can employees legally strike over wage disputes?

Yes, industrial action is permissible under specific conditions so long as it follows the due process as prescribed by law.

8. Is it mandatory to have a written employment contract?

Yes, employment contracts should be in writing and detail the job role, salary, and terms of engagement.

9. When should wages be paid?

Wages are typically paid monthly, but payment frequency can be stipulated in the employment contract.

10. Can wage agreements be altered unilaterally by an employer?

No, employers should not unilaterally change wage agreements without the consent of the employee or union where applicable.

Additional Resources

The following organizations and bodies can offer assistance and information on wage and hour concerns:

  • The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment
  • Trade and labour unions
  • National Industrial Court of Nigeria
  • Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC)
  • Local legal aid services

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with wage and hour issues, consider taking the following steps:

  • Document any discrepancies, including unpaid wages or unfair deductions.
  • Consult with your union, if applicable, for initial guidance.
  • Seek legal advice from a specialized wage and hour attorney.
  • Explore mediation or alternative dispute resolution options for an amicable settlement.
  • Proceed with legal action through appropriate channels like the National Industrial Court if necessary.

Securing professional legal counsel can ensure that your rights are protected and help efficiently resolve disputes related to wage and hour matters in Nigeria.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Nigeria through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Wage & Hour, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.