Employees rely on their employers to pay them a fair salary. When companies refuse to pay employees what they are legally entitled to, a lawyer has the knowledge and experience in employment law to recover outstanding wages.

Companies frequently fail to pay employees for overtime, commissions, and other sorts of unpaid wages. They compromise their employees’ rights to increase their profits, which is not only unethical but also criminal. Because federal and state employment laws are complicated, it is critical to contact an Ontario workplace lawyer to get the best possible outcome. 

Recovering unpaid wages 

Recovering unpaid pay from your employer might be as simple as having an employment lawyer contact the company on your behalf. This is frequently sufficient to persuade an employer to comply with their commitments.

However, there are times when an employer refuses to pay unpaid wages, necessitating additional action. In such instances, an employee seeking compensation can sue their employer in court or file an Employment Standards lawsuit with the Ministry of Labour. Employees must select one or the other since they cannot pursue both possibilities.

Different regulations apply to unionized personnel (who should consult with their union representative about their alternatives), government employees, and independent contractors.

It is critical to consult with an employment lawyer as quickly as possible if your employer owes you money. A lawyer can initiate the conversation with the employer and, in the meanwhile, can assist you in evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a lawsuit or an Employment Standards claim.

Understanding unpaid overtime pay 

What constitutes unpaid overtime? It occurs when a worker works more hours than are specified under the appropriate legislation safeguarding workers’ rights (in this example, the Ontario Employment Standards Act). In Ontario, if you work more than 44 hours a week, you are likely entitled to overtime.

Is unpaid overtime illegal or legal?

Let us start with the basics: is unpaid overtime legal or illegal? Or, more specifically, when is unpaid overtime prohibited?

If you are a non-unionized salaried or hourly employee who works more than 44 hours a week, you may be eligible for overtime pay. There are certain industry-specific exclusions, but if this matches you, contact a lawyer for a consultation. They will hear about your case and help you find alternatives.

Remember, when calculating overtime, the threshold is 44 hours. In summary, the threshold is 44 working hours of paid time; if you work more than 44 hours, you are entitled to overtime compensation at a higher rate.

Seek legal help today. 

If your employer is withholding your salary, do not just sit back and suffer alone. Schedule a consultation with an experienced workplace lawyer today.