Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in St. Albert

About Wage & Hour Law in St. Albert, Canada

Wage & Hour law in St. Albert, Alberta, is governed primarily by the Alberta Employment Standards Code and Regulations. These laws set out minimum standards for pay rates, overtime, hours of work, breaks, holiday entitlements, and other workplace rights and responsibilities. While St. Albert follows Alberta’s provincial employment standards, there may also be federal regulations that apply to some workplaces. It is important for both employees and employers to understand these legal requirements to ensure fair workplace practices and to address any disputes that may arise.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal advice in Wage & Hour matters is common for a variety of reasons. Employees may need help if they believe they have been underpaid, denied overtime, not provided breaks, or wrongfully terminated over wage issues. Employers may seek advice to ensure compliance with the law or to respond to employee complaints. Other situations include disputes over regular or overtime wages, misclassification as a contractor instead of an employee, unpaid vacation pay, or difficulty collecting owed wages after leaving a job. Legal guidance can clarify rights, help recover unpaid wages, and protect against retaliation.

Local Laws Overview

St. Albert abides by Alberta's Employment Standards Code, which outlines key employment rights:

• Minimum Wage: As of June 2024, the general minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour.
• Hours of Work: The standard workday is 8 hours, and the work week is capped at 44 hours without overtime pay.
• Overtime: Overtime pay is 1.5 times the regular wage and applies after 8 hours per day or 44 hours per week, whichever is greater.
• Breaks: Employees are entitled to at least a 30-minute break (paid or unpaid) within every 5-hour period of work.
• Public Holidays: Employees may be entitled to holiday pay and premium pay for working on statutory holidays.
• Vacation: After one year, employees are entitled to at least two weeks of vacation with pay (3 weeks after five years).
• Equal Pay: Employers cannot discriminate in pay based on gender or protected grounds.
• Employment Records: Employers must keep payroll records for at least three years.

Some industries or occupations may have exemptions or special rules, so it is vital to confirm applicable laws for your role or workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in St. Albert, Alberta?

The current minimum wage in Alberta, which applies to St. Albert, is $15.00 per hour for most employees.

When do employers have to pay overtime?

Overtime is required when an employee works more than 8 hours in a day or 44 hours in a week, paid at 1.5 times their regular rate.

Are breaks required by law during a work shift?

Yes. Employees must receive at least a 30-minute rest (which can be split into two 15-minute breaks) for every shift longer than five hours.

How often should I be paid?

Employees must be paid at least once a month, and most employers pay bi-weekly or semi-monthly. Employers must provide a detailed pay statement.

Can I be paid less than minimum wage if I receive tips?

No. All employees, including those who receive tips (such as in the service industry), must be paid at least the minimum wage before tips.

Am I entitled to holiday pay or premium pay for working on a public holiday?

Yes. Employees who meet eligibility criteria are entitled to general holiday pay, and if they work on the holiday, they must be paid premium rates or receive another day off.

What can I do if my employer refuses to pay me properly?

You can file a complaint with the Alberta Employment Standards. If the issue remains unresolved, legal assistance may be necessary.

What are the rules about vacation pay in St. Albert?

Employees are entitled to at least 2 weeks of paid vacation after 1 year of employment (increasing to 3 weeks after 5 years) or vacation pay at 4% or 6% of earnings, depending on years of service.

If I am classified as a contractor, do wage laws still apply?

Generally, wage & hour laws apply to employees, not independent contractors. However, misclassification is common, and you may actually have employee status depending on your work relationship.

How long does my employer have to keep payroll records?

Employers are legally required to keep payroll and employment records for at least three years from the date they were made.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support regarding Wage & Hour issues, consider the following resources:

• Alberta Employment Standards: Provides official guidelines, complaint procedures, and resources for employees and employers.
• Alberta Human Rights Commission: Addresses matters related to pay discrimination and other protected rights.
• Legal Aid Alberta: Offers legal help for eligible individuals who cannot afford private legal representation.
• Community Legal Clinics: Provide free or low-cost legal advice and information.
• Canada Labour Code (for federally regulated workplaces): Sets standards for employees who work in federally regulated sectors such as banks, airlines, and telecommunications.

Next Steps

If you believe you have a wage & hour issue or require legal advice:

• Gather all relevant documentation—including pay stubs, employment contracts, and records of work hours.
• Review the Alberta Employment Standards online to understand your rights and obligations.
• Attempt to resolve the issue directly with your employer, if safe and possible.
• If the issue persists, file a formal complaint with Alberta Employment Standards or contact a local employment lawyer for advice.
• Contact local legal clinics or Legal Aid Alberta for assistance if you cannot afford private legal help.

Act promptly, as there may be time limits for filing complaints or taking legal action. Consulting a lawyer or legal resource early can help protect your rights and resolve disputes more effectively.