Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in Johannesburg

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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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Snaid & Morris inc
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2021
4 people in their team
English
We are a specialist legal firm based in Morningside Sandton. Our areas of expertise cover UK emigration and investment law, Insolvency Law, Litigation, Family Law, Mergers and acquisitions, contract law and debt collection. We also has a specialized labor law department which handles all matters...
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...
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...
HJW Attorneys
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2018
English
HJW Attorneys, established in 2018 by co-founders Megan Harrington-Johnson and Richard Wands, is a boutique law firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including commercial law, civil litigation, debt collection, employment law, family and...
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 1989
English
Established in 1989, Tate, Nolan & Knight Inc. is a dynamic, medium-sized law firm with offices in Durban North and Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The firm comprises a team of 12 professionals supported by 27 staff members, all dedicated to delivering specialized legal services across...
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...
Ndungu Attorneys Inc
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Ndungu Attorneys Inc is a boutique law firm situated in Johannesburg, close to the South Gauteng High Court (Johannesburg High Court) and various Magistrates’ Courts such as Jeppe, Hillbrow and Westgate.We have a rich and diverse history with our founder Kimani Ndung’u having worked or...
CEBO MATHENJWA INCORPORATED
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2021
English
Established in 2021, CEBO MATHENJWA INCORPORATED is a South African law firm dedicated to delivering professional and innovative legal solutions to a diverse clientele, including individuals, businesses, government departments, municipalities, and parastatals. The firm's mission emphasizes...
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2020
English
Robberts Attorneys, headquartered in Emalahleni, South Africa, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clientele. The firm's areas of expertise encompass criminal law, bail applications, commercial and contractual law, company law, debt collection,...
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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.