Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in New Hampshire

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Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP.
Manchester, United States

Founded in 1974
1,688 people in their team
English
As the only law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, we deliver maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a full-service national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. Featuring more than 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and...
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About Wage & Hour Law in New Hampshire, United States

Wage and hour laws in New Hampshire are designed to ensure employees are paid fairly for their work and receive the benefits and protections to which they are entitled. These laws cover aspects such as minimum wage, overtime pay, payday requirements, recordkeeping, youth employment, and more. Both federal laws and New Hampshire state laws apply in this area, and often the law that provides greater protection to employees will prevail.

Understanding your rights and obligations under wage and hour laws can be challenging, as they are detailed and subject to change. Employees, as well as employers, must comply with all relevant regulations to avoid penalties and to foster a fair workplace.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may require legal assistance with wage and hour matters for a variety of reasons. Some common situations include:

  • Unpaid wages for hours worked or overtime
  • Misclassification of employment status (such as being wrongly labeled as an independent contractor or exempt from overtime)
  • Withheld tips or improper tip pooling
  • Issues with minimum wage requirements
  • Denial of meal or rest breaks
  • Retaliation after filing a wage complaint
  • Incorrect paycheck deductions or late payments

A lawyer specializing in wage and hour law can help you navigate claims, communicate with your employer, file complaints with government agencies, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

New Hampshire wage and hour laws have some unique features. Below are key aspects relevant for employees and employers to understand:

  • Minimum Wage: New Hampshire’s minimum wage is tied to the federal minimum wage, which is currently seven dollars and twenty-five cents per hour. If federal law increases, New Hampshire will follow the new rate.
  • Overtime: Overtime is required after forty hours of work in one week at a rate of one and one-half times the regular pay rate, as per federal law. Some employees are exempt from overtime, depending on their job duties and salary.
  • Pay Frequency: New Hampshire employers must pay employees weekly, except for certain exempted positions approved by the New Hampshire Department of Labor.
  • Deductions: Employers can only make authorized deductions from paychecks, such as for taxes or with written employee consent for specific other items.
  • Meal Periods: Employees working more than five consecutive hours are entitled to a thirty-minute unpaid meal break, unless it is possible to eat while working and the employer and employee agree.
  • Youth Employment: Workers under sixteen have restrictions on hours and types of work. Youth employment certificates may be required for those under eighteen.
  • Tip Credits: Employers may use a tip credit system, but tipped employees must receive at least the minimum wage when base pay plus tips are combined.
  • Final Paychecks: Upon separation, including termination, employers must pay all wages due within seventy-two hours.

Many federal laws, like the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), also apply in New Hampshire, and sometimes provide greater protections than state law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire follows the federal minimum wage, which is currently seven dollars and twenty-five cents per hour.

Am I entitled to overtime pay in New Hampshire?

Most non-exempt employees must receive overtime pay at one and one-half times their regular rate for all hours worked over forty in a workweek.

How often must my employer pay me?

Employees must generally be paid on a weekly basis in New Hampshire, with a few exceptions for certain salaried employees and written agreements.

What can my employer legally deduct from my paycheck?

Employers can only deduct amounts required by law, such as taxes or court orders, and only with written authorization for other deductions like insurance or retirement plans.

Is my employer required to give me breaks?

If you work more than five consecutive hours, you are entitled to a thirty-minute meal break. Short rest breaks are not required by law in New Hampshire.

Do tips count toward my minimum wage?

Yes, for tipped employees, employers may count tips toward the minimum wage, but if your total earnings (wage plus tips) do not equal at least the minimum wage, your employer must make up the difference.

What should I do if I believe my employer is not paying me properly?

Contact your employer to try to resolve the issue. If unresolved, you can file a wage claim with the New Hampshire Department of Labor or consult an attorney.

How soon must I be paid after leaving a job?

All wages owed must be paid within seventy-two hours after separation.

Are all workers entitled to overtime?

No, some salaried or executive, administrative, and professional employees may be exempt from overtime depending on their job duties and pay.

Do wage and hour laws apply to independent contractors?

Generally, wage and hour protections apply only to employees. If you are misclassified as an independent contractor, you may still have rights and should seek legal advice.

Additional Resources

  • New Hampshire Department of Labor - the primary state agency for wage and hour complaints and information
  • United States Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division - federal wage and hour guidance and complaint handling
  • New Hampshire Legal Assistance - provides free legal help to eligible low-income workers
  • Local bar associations with lawyer referral programs and resources for finding experienced employment attorneys

Next Steps

If you believe your rights have been violated or you have questions about wage and hour law, you should start by gathering all relevant documents, such as pay stubs, work schedules, employment agreements, and any communications with your employer. Try to resolve the matter with your employer first, as many wage disputes can be remedied quickly.

If the issue is not resolved, you may file a complaint with the New Hampshire Department of Labor or seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your specific situation, and determine the best course of action.

Taking prompt action is important, as there are time limits for filing wage claims. Use the resources above and consult with a qualified professional to ensure your rights are protected.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire, United States - 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.