All workers in Reston enjoy employment protections provided by state law, regardless of whether they are paid salary or hourly on a part-time or full-time basis. However, many employers are unaware of or choose to ignore these laws, which can result in a significant discrepancy in a worker’s income.
Employment protection violations can take many forms, such as wage theft, payment of unfair wages, workplace harassment, and discrimination. A skilled Reston employment lawyer could help you take action against illegal workplace practices. Whether your employer failed to pay proper wages or violated your workplace, a
dedicated attorney from the Spiggle Law Firm may be able to help.
Wage Discrepancies
Fair wages for fair work are an important part of Reston employment law. As a result, all employees who work for an hourly rate should be paid no less than the standard minimum wage.
Virginia Code §40.1-28.10 mandates local business owners to adhere to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. While this statute does not apply to some salaried workers, tipped employees, or those who work on commission, an employer who fails to provide a fair hourly wage may violate both federal and state law.
Another common wage dispute involves overtime. There is no state law concerning the payment of overtime, but federal standards still apply. Regardless of your hourly rate, the
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires business owners to provide compensation at a rate of one and a half times your normal wage for all hours worked in excess of 40 during a given week. The professional guidance of a well-versed Reston employment attorney could be substantially beneficial when determining whether your boss’s actions violate any of your workplace rights.
Protections Against Discrimination
Employment law also provides protection against workplace harassment and discrimination. Both
VA Code §2.2-3901 and federal anti-discrimination laws make it illegal for an employer to take adverse action against a worker or employment candidate on the basis of a protected factor. For example, a business owner could be held liable for discriminating against an employee or potential employee over the following:
- Race
- National origin
- Pregnancy status
- Religion
- Disability
- Gender
- Sexual Orientation
It may be necessary for you to initiate your case in a local courthouse. A seasoned employment lawyer in Reston could help you bring a claim against your employer for violating anti-discrimination or harassment laws and choose a legal path that best fits your needs.
Reach out to a Reston Employment Attorney Today
Facing discrimination or wage theft at your job can affect your finances and your work ethic. After you report any illegal employment practices, qualified legal counsel could help you pursue a claim for compensation.
An experienced Reston employment lawyer could investigate the details of your case, determine whether your employer violated your rights, and choose appropriate legal action to hold your boss accountable. An attorney at the Spiggle Law Firm could help you understand what to expect from the litigation process, so
call today to schedule a meeting.
