Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in Belleville

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Lashly & Baer

Lashly & Baer

Belleville, United States

Founded in 1972
86 people in their team
We Have A History Of Making HistoryLashly & Baer, P.C., has its roots from Jacob M. Lashly, one of Missouri’s outstanding trial lawyers and a...
English

About Wage & Hour Law in Belleville, United States:

Wage and Hour law in Belleville, United States, falls under the wider umbrella of both federal and Illinois state law. These laws regulate the minimum wage an employer can pay an employee, the hours an employee works, overtime pay, child labor standards, and recordkeeping obligations. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) dictates federal laws, while Illinois Minimum Wage Law and the One Day Rest in Seven Act set out the state regulations. Employers in Belleville must abide by these laws to ensure fair and equitable payment and working conditions for their employees.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer if you believe your employer is not adhering to the wage and hour laws. This could include things like not receiving the correct minimum wage, not being paid for overtime, wage deductions, classification as an independent contractor rather than an employee, or not receiving mandatory rest breaks. An experienced wage and hour lawyer can help you understand your rights, explore your potential claim, and in some cases, recover unpaid wages, along with possible penalties and attorney's fees.

Local Laws Overview:

Belleville employers must comply with Illinois state laws, which, in many cases, offer more employee protections than federal laws. As of 2021, the minimum wage in Illinois is $11.00 per hour for businesses with 20 or fewer workers and $14.00 for businesses with more than 20 workers. Overtime is required for any hours worked over 40 in a week at a rate of one and a half times the regular rate of pay. Illinois law also requires that employees receive a minutely rest break during shifts of 7.5 hours or more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the minimum wage in Belleville, Illinois?

As of 2021, the minimum wage in Belleville for businesses with 20 or fewer workers is $11.00 per hour, and for businesses with more than 20 workers, the minimum wage is $14.00 per hour.

2. When am I supposed to get overtime pay?

Illinois law requires your employer to pay you overtime if you work more than 40 hours in a work week. The overtime rate is one and a half times your regular pay rate.

3. What can I do if my employer does not pay me overtime?

If you believe your employer has not paid you required overtime, you can consult with a wage and hour lawyer. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include filing a claim with the Illinois Department of Labor or filing a lawsuit in court.

4. Can my employer deduct from my wages?

Employers can only make certain deductions from your wages, such as taxes or other mandatory fees. Any other deduction requires your express written consent and cannot bring your wages below the minimum wage.

5. Are salaried employees exempt from overtime pay?

Not necessarily. The fact that an employee is paid on a "salaried" rather than "hourly" basis does not automatically exclude them from overtime pay. Whether or not a salaried employee is entitled to overtime depends on their job duties and salary.

Additional Resources:

The Illinois Department of Labor provides guidance on the state's wage and hour laws and can mediate disputes between employees and employers. The U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division also provides resources on federal wage and hour laws. Employee rights organizations, such as the National Employment Law Project and the Economic Policy Institute, can provide assistance and resources as well.

Next Steps:

If you believe your wage and hour rights have been violated, you should document instances of potential violations and consult with a lawyer who specializes in wage and hour law. They can guide you through the process of filing a complaint or lawsuit. Keep in mind, wage and hour law can be complex and it's important to seek professional advice to ensure your rights are protected.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.