Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in St. Petersburg

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Adams and Reese LLP

Adams and Reese LLP

St. Petersburg, United States

Founded in 1951
610 people in their team
Study our experience and credentials to understand why we belong on your short list. Get to know us as people, and you’ll recognize our dedication...
English

About Wage & Hour Law in St. Petersburg, United States

The Wage & Hour laws in St. Petersburg, United States, are governed by both the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the laws of the state of Florida. These laws establish minimum wage, overtime pay eligibility, recordkeeping, and child labor standards affecting full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in federal, state, and local governments.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People may need a Wage & Hour lawyer if they believe their employer is failing to pay them the legally mandated minimum wage or overtime, or if they're made to work under conditions that violate established standards such as exceedingly long work hours without ample breaks. Legal help can also be essential in cases where wage theft is suspected, for example, if tips are being allocated improperly, or if one's pay is regularly short of the agreed amount.

Local Laws Overview

In St. Petersburg, Florida, as of 2021, the minimum wage is $8.65 per hour, set to increase incrementally until it reaches $15.00 per hour in 2026. Employers are also required to pay "time-and-a-half" overtime to eligible employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek. FLSA requires that eligible workers be compensated at no less than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the maximum hours I can be made to work in a week without overtime pay?

Under both state and federal law, there is no limit to the number of hours you can be made to work in a week as an adult. The requirement is that if you work more than 40 hours, you must be paid overtime.

Am I eligible for the minimum wage if I receive tips?

Yes, tipped employees in Florida must be paid a direct hourly wage, but it can be lower than the standard minimum wage because tips are counted towards meeting the full minimum wage.

What can I do if I don’t receive overtime pay?

If you're eligible and don’t receive overtime pay, you should contact a Wage & Hour lawyer to help you understand your rights and potentially file a claim against your employer.

Can my employer make me work during breaks?

If your break is at least 20 minutes long, your employer cannot make you work during that time. This time must be completely uninterrupted for it to consider a break.

What if I am a minor?

If work interferes with a minor's schooling, an employer may be violating child labor laws. Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of hours they can work.

Additional Resources

The United States Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division (WHD) as well as the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) can provide further information and resources about wage and hour laws and enforcement.

Next Steps

If you believe your rights under Wage & Hour laws have been violated, it is recommended to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer in this field for legal guidance. Document the instances of potential violations as this will support your case. Remember, the initial consultation is normally at no charge, and many cases can be handled on a contingency basis.

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.