Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in Johannesburg

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JMD ATTORNEYS

JMD ATTORNEYS

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
How we WorkJM De Villiers Attorney is a dynamic firm specialising in commercial law and criminal law with a track record of delivering practical solutions to the legal challenges that all our clientele face.We have an extended network of professionals that we work closely with, giving us access to...
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Kgomo Attorneys Inc

Kgomo Attorneys Inc

Johannesburg, South Africa

English
Kgomo Attorneys Inc, located in Mahikeng, North West Province, offers a comprehensive range of legal services to both individuals and businesses. The firm's practice areas include civil litigation, matrimonial and divorce disputes, urgent applications, insolvency proceedings, and general commercial...
Mukwani Attorneys

Mukwani Attorneys

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
About UsTrust us with your caseMukwani Attorneys is a law firm that provides services across a broad spectrum of subjectmatters. We strive to provide innovative and effective solutions no matter the complexity ofthe issue. We take pride in what we stand for Honesty, Integrity, Quality, Promptly...
MOLEFE DLEPU INCORPORATED

MOLEFE DLEPU INCORPORATED

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 1995
25 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Our greatest strengthSince it was founded in 1995 the firm was meant to be a unique space for determined and highly skilled young people aiming to build a career in law. Today our community is a force of excellence, empowerment and progress. Meet our fearless leaders and warriors of the law.OUR...

Angeléne Swart Attorneys

Johannesburg, South Africa

English
Angeléne Swart Attorneys, located in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is a distinguished law firm committed to delivering comprehensive legal services with integrity and professionalism. Founded by Angeléne Swart, an attorney and conveyancer admitted to the High Court of South Africa, the firm...
Maree & Pace, Mpulo - Attorneys & Conveyancers

Maree & Pace, Mpulo - Attorneys & Conveyancers

Johannesburg, South Africa

English
A professional law firm offering expert legal services.
Macgregor Erasmus Attorneys

Macgregor Erasmus Attorneys

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2007
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Macgregor Erasmus Attorneys Inc. is an innovative Law Firm that redefines the role that Lawyers ought to play by providing quick, pragmatic and robust legal solutions and representation which is bespoke to Multinational Corporations, Blue-chip companies, Large, Medium, Small, Micro-enterprises and...
SWVG Inc

SWVG Inc

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
SWVG Inc.Swartz Weil Van Der Merwe Greenberg Inc. Attorneys was formed in August 2017, following the dissolution of Phillip Silver Swartz Inc.SWVG Inc. is a unique law firm offering a basket of legal services, with all of its professionals being passionate about the law, focused on what they do and...
BDK ATTORNEYS

BDK ATTORNEYS

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 1960
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
What We Stand ForLAW WITH DIGNITY. YOU ARE A PERSON – NOT A CASE FILENever let a good fight pass byFair and compassion treatment towards our clientsNavigating our clients through the stormy waters of their legal issuesCollaborative work within our firm to provide the best possible...
SD Law

SD Law

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2011
10 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Attorney Simon Dippenaar has a BBusSc LLB degree and Professional Diploma in Legal Practice from the University of Cape Town, and is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. He is the founder and director of private legal practice, Simon Dippenaar & Associates, with offices in...
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About Wage & Hour Law in Johannesburg, South Africa

Wage and hour laws in Johannesburg, as in the rest of South Africa, are designed to protect workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Governed by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), these laws establish clear guidelines on minimum wages, working hours, overtime pay, and requisite breaks for employees. Employers are expected to adhere to these regulations to foster fair labor practices and to ensure the well-being of their workforce. These laws apply broadly across various sectors, although there are specific codes for industries within the city to address nuanced working conditions and economic variations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance in the field of Wage & Hour might be necessary in several scenarios, such as disputes over unpaid wages or overtime, discrepancies in work hours reporting, violations of minimum wage laws, or wrongful dismissal related to wage issues. Employers too might seek legal counsel to ensure compliance with the BCEA, draft compliant employment contracts, or handle grievances properly. Engaging a lawyer ensures that both employees and employers can navigate the complexities of labor laws effectively and resolve any issues that might arise in a fair and legal manner.

Local Laws Overview

In Johannesburg, the wage and hour regulations are primarily governed by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Key aspects include:

  • Minimum Wage: As of recent adjustments, there's a prescribed national minimum wage which employers must adhere to, with exemptions applicable in certain sectors.
  • Working Hours: The standard workweek is capped at 45 hours, distributed over up to six days, with overtime generally limited to 10 hours a week, compensated at a rate of 1.5 times the normal pay.
  • Leave Entitlements: Regulations specify minimum leave provisions, including annual leave, sick leave, and family responsibility leave.
  • Termination Procedures: Employers must follow legal procedures when terminating employment contracts, ensuring reasons are fair and justified.

These regulations aim to maintain fairness and protect the rights of all parties involved in employment relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current minimum wage in Johannesburg?

The minimum wage in Johannesburg aligns with the national standard set by the Department of Employment and Labour. It is important to consult the latest government publications or a local lawyer to get the most recent figure as it can be subject to annual review and changes.

How are overtime hours compensated?

Overtime work should be compensated at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate. For Sundays or public holidays, this rate may increase to double the normal hourly rate.

Can an employer insist on more than 45 hours a week?

No, the BCEA stipulates the maximum working hours at 45 per week, except under specific circumstances agreed upon by both employer and employee, and within legal limits.

Are there any exemptions to paying the minimum wage?

Certain sectors or individual businesses may apply for exemptions to the national minimum wage, subject to approval by relevant authorities. These often require proof of financial inability to comply.

What are the standard conditions for annual leave?

The Act specifies a minimum of 21 consecutive days per year of annual leave for full-time employees, commonly earned at a rate of 1 day for every 17 days worked.

What steps should I take if my employer doesn't pay my wages?

An employee should initially address the issue with their employer, followed by lodging a complaint with the Department of Employment and Labour if the issue remains unresolved.

Can an employee be forced to work on public holidays?

Work on public holidays is generally voluntary and must be agreed upon by both parties, with compensation set at double the normal rate unless an agreement specifies otherwise.

What protection is there against unfair dismissal related to wage disputes?

The Labour Relations Act provides protection against unfair dismissal, allowing employees to seek redress through the CCMA or Labour Court.

How does the law address meal breaks?

Employees are entitled to a 60-minute break after five consecutive hours of work unless otherwise agreed upon in writing for a shorter period of at least 30 minutes.

Is it legal for employers to deduct salary for poor performance?

No, salary can only be deducted under circumstances legally sanctioned, such as agreed-upon absences. Performance-related deductions are not permitted.

Additional Resources

For individuals seeking further information or assistance, the following organizations and resources might be helpful:

  • Department of Employment and Labour: Providing updated information and guidance on labor laws.
  • Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA): Offering dispute resolution services.
  • Legal Aid South Africa: Providing legal assistance to those who cannot afford private lawyers.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance pertaining to wage and hour concerns, begin by documenting all relevant information and communications related to your issue. Consult with a local attorney who specializes in employment law to guide you through the process and represent you if necessary. To find a qualified lawyer, you may contact local law societies, seek referrals from trusted sources, or use attorney directories available online.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Johannesburg 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. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Johannesburg, South Africa—quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.