Pasadena Salary & Independent Contractor Misclassification Lawyer
Each employer is required to follow state and federal laws when it comes to paying those who work for them. While many companies hire independent contractors to perform work for them, some do not treat these workers accordingly. In fact, many workers are not paid fairly due to a misclassification of their role. In cases like these, a Pasadena salary and independent contractor misclassification lawyer can help.
Gig workers, IT professionals, healthcare staff, sales reps, construction workers, writers, and others may be at high risk for misclassification. At LNN, our lawyers have a solid understanding of employment law. If you believe that you are a victim of an employee misclassification, it may be time to get help from an employment attorney.
What Is an Independent Contractor Misclassification?
Unfortunately, misclassifications of workers are extremely common, in spite of the fact that the Fair Labor Standards Act and state laws govern classifications of workers clearly. In most cases, misclassification occurs when a company declares that somebody is a 1099 contractor rather than a W-2 employee. This leaves many workers vulnerable and paid unfairly.
There are a couple of reasons why companies may misclassify companies. For example, companies can ask for overtime hours without actually having to pay the workers for that time. They can also get away with not paying for health insurance and not having to offer sick leave. These companies can also pay less than minimum wage. They are also not subject to the same discrimination laws. An attorney in Pasadena can help a worker determine whether they were misclassified as an independent contractor instead of a salaried employee.
Why Worker Misclassification Matters
Workers who are misclassified do not get minimum wage or overtime pay. Additionally, they often find themselves paying higher taxes for being self-employed. If you are classified as an independent contractor, you miss out on the protections offered by federal and state laws.
This is a type of wage theft, and it also prevents workers from having the full protection of the law. Employers that misclassify workers are not only breaking the law but also harming those who work for them.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Misclassification
Workers who believe they have been misclassified as independent contractors can determine if they have legal recourse by speaking with our lawyers in Los Angeles. Our attorney will first assess the classification and determine if the worker has a case. If our attorney determines that a misclassification has occurred, we can fight to secure entitlements, including overtime pay, unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation, and minimum wage if eligible.
Additionally, our attorneys can help recover damages from the past. We can go back several years to determine how much money the misclassification has cost an attorney. Not only can our attorneys do this for individuals, but they can also do this for larger groups.
Contact a Los Angeles Attorney To Discuss Misclassification Matters
When it comes to protecting yourself as an employee, it is crucial to hire an experienced legal advocate. Workplace issues are complex and require skilled guidance. Even if you have filed a complaint regarding wage violations with the applicable government, you can work with a lawyer. In fact, hiring a misclassification lawyer could be the key to securing your rights as a worker.
Do you have concerns about worker misclassification in your workplace? Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with our legal team. A Pasadena salary and independent contractor misclassification lawyer can help you with the next steps.