Employment Attorney Cleveland, Ohio

While employers and employees generally strive for a harmonious working relationship, there are instances where discrepancies arise. If you suspect that your employer is violating labor laws, The Friedmann Firm stands ready to assist. Our seasoned employment attorneys in Cleveland are committed to ensuring your rights are upheld and you receive equitable treatment.

What is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)?

The FLSA is a federal U.S. law designed to shield workers. It mandates a minimum wage, requires overtime pay (at one and a half times the regular rate) for hours exceeding 40 in a week, regulates record-keeping, and curtails child labor. This applies to both part-time and full-time workers, irrespective of whether they are in the private sector or working for government entities at various levels.

Employers are required to pay employees at least the federal minimum wage. Exceptions are made for tipped employees, and the FSLA makes special rules for how these employees are paid. In Ohio, as of January 1, 2018, non-exempt workers are entitled to a minimum wage of not less than $8.30 per hour. Further, employers are not allowed to make deductions for cash or merchandise shortages, tools, or uniforms to the extent that the deductions reduce wages below the minimum required rate or reduce the amount of overtime pay due under the FLSA. Employers are also prohibited from sex-based wage differentials between men and women who perform jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility, under similar working conditions.

Tipped Employee

A tipped employee is one who consistently receives more than $30 per month in tips and is entitled to at least $2.13 per hour in direct wages ($4.15 in the state of Ohio). If an employee’s tips combined with the employer’s direct wages do not equal the hourly minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference. If your employer is not properly compensating you as a tipped employee, it is crucial that you contact our Cleveland employment attorneys immediately as this is a serious violation of your rights.

Exemptions to the FLSA

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employee protections are delineated based on whether they are classified as “non-exempt” or “exempt.” Non-exempt employees are safeguarded by the FLSA, ensuring they receive minimum wage, overtime pay, and other provisions. In contrast, exempt employees are not entitled to certain protections such as overtime pay.

However, it’s essential to note that exemptions within the FLSA are specifically defined, making the issue of “misclassification” particularly significant. Misclassification arises when an employer incorrectly labels an employee as exempt, even though they should be non-exempt under the FLSA. Such errors can deprive employees of their rightful benefits and protections.

If you are uncertain about your status or believe you might have been misclassified, it is advisable to seek guidance from a employment attorney based in Cleveland, Ohio.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Employment Lawyer?

The Friedmann Firm, LLC, provides invaluable counsel to employees facing workplace challenges, from misclassification to discrimination. By partnering with an employment lawyer, you gain:

• Expert insight and advice on your employment rights
• Knowledge of your entitled rights and benefits
• Efficient case handling and communications, including negotiations.
• A staunch advocate throughout any legal proceedings

If you are dealing with wage disputes, harassment, or a hostile work environment, an employment lawyer can assist you in addressing your concerns.

Even if you are uncertain as to whether assistance of an employment lawyer for your particular issue is necessary, it is beneficial to schedule a consultation with one of our team members. We offer free and confidential consultations that can be scheduled online or over the phone.

Types of Employment Cases We Handle in Cleveland, Ohio

Since our founding in 2012, The Friedmann Firm, LLC has been fully dedicated to the practice of employment and labor law. We understand exactly how stressful encountering issues in the workplace can be, whether that is feeling like you are being treated unfairly or not being paid properly.

Some common types of employment cases that our team of employment attorneys regularly handle include:

• Wrongful termination
• Age discrimination
• National origin discrimination
• Pregnancy discrimination
• Racial discrimination
• Sexual harassment
• Hostile work environments
• Workplace retaliation

We offer representation to individual employees and class action lawsuits involving a group of employees.

How Do I Report Unfair Treatment at Work?

If you encounter workplace mistreatment, it is important to do the following:

1. Begin documenting the unfair treatment as soon as you notice it. This includes all forms of communication such as emails, texts, and direct messages. You can also keep a record of your own notes as well.
2. Report the treatment internally to your supervisor or HR department.
3. You can also file a complaint with the Department of Labor or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission – depending on the situation.
4. Consult with an employment attorney. You have the right to seek legal advice and counsel before filing a complaint with your employer or with a federal agency.

If you report unfair treatment to your employer it is imperative to remember that they cannot retaliate against you for reporting the treatment. If your employer retaliates against you, they may face legal consequences.

Have your rights been violated? Contact our Employment Attorneys

An informed worker is less susceptible to employer exploitation. If your rights have been compromised, our dedicated employment attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, will stand by your side. Acquainted with labor laws and workplace challenges, we are prepared to represent your claims. You work hard and deserve fair compensation. The caring and experienced Cleveland Ohio employment attorneys at The Friedmann Firm will fight for your rights. We know labor and employment laws and are well-versed in dealing with workplace issues. We always offer free consultations, call our office today at (440) 703-8550 to schedule an appointment with an Ohio employment attorney.