If you work in the private sector, you’re entitled to fair compensation under the law. But not every employer follows the rules. Some may cut corners, misclassify workers, or avoid paying overtime. Others may simply hope their employees won’t push back.
If your paycheck doesn’t reflect the hours you’ve worked or if you’re unsure whether your job duties meet the legal definition for overtime exemption, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Solomon Law Firm, PLLC, we help private sector employees understand their rights and take action when those rights are violated.
What Wage and Hour Laws Protect Private Sector Workers?
Several federal and state laws protect your right to fair pay. The main one is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This federal law applies to most private employers and sets the rules for minimum wage, overtime, and wage recordkeeping.
Under the FLSA, most non-exempt employees are entitled to:
- At least the federal minimum wage (currently $7.25 per hour, though many states set higher rates)
- Time-and-a-half pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek
- Accurate records of hours worked and wages paid
- Timely payment for all hours worked, including training time and certain travel
In addition to the FLSA, many states have their own wage and hour laws that offer even stronger protections. These laws may set a higher minimum wage, define stricter rules for when overtime must be paid, or impose penalties for late paychecks.
It’s important to understand that not all workers are treated the same. Some are legally exempt from overtime based on their job duties and salary level. However, employers often misclassify employees as exempt or treat workers as independent contractors when they should be on payroll. If you’re unsure whether you should be receiving overtime, we can help review your role and compensation.
Common Wage and Hour Violations in the Private Sector
Wage violations happen in all kinds of workplaces. Some are the result of intentional policies. Others happen because employers either don’t understand the law or intentionally choose not to follow it.
Here are some of the most common problems we see:
- Being paid a flat salary despite working more than 40 hours a week (without overtime)
- Being told to clock out but keep working
- Misclassification as an independent contractor
- Missing meal breaks or being required to stay on duty during breaks
- Unpaid training or mandatory prep time
- Tips or service charges being kept by the employer
- Deductions from paychecks that bring wages below minimum wage
Even if your job seems informal or temporary, you may still be entitled to protections under wage and hour laws. If you’ve raised concerns about your pay and been ignored—or worse, punished—you may also have a claim for retaliation.
How We Help You Stand Up for Your Rights
At Solomon Law Firm, PLLC, we represent private sector employees across many industries. Whether you work in hospitality, retail, construction, healthcare, or corporate services, we’re ready to help you understand your rights and pursue unpaid wages.
We handle wage and hour claims involving:
- Unpaid minimum wages
- Overtime violations
- Independent contractor misclassification
- Off-the-clock work
- Group and individual claims under FLSA and applicable state law
You don’t need to still work for the employer to file a claim. And you don’t need to go it alone. We’ll talk through your concerns, review your pay records, and help you understand what you may be owed. If your employer broke the law, we’ll help you build a strong case for back pay, penalties, and other damages.
Why Choose Solomon Law Firm, PLLC?
We have extensive experience helping private sector employees stand up to unlawful pay practices. Our team has handled wage and hour disputes against small businesses, large corporations, and everything in between.
We know how employers try to avoid liability, and we understand how to build strong, fact-based claims that get results. When you work with us, you can count on clear communication and steady support. We take the time to explain each step of the process so you know what to expect and where things stand. Our goal is to help you recover the wages you’re legally owed while minimizing stress and disruption to your daily life.
Contact an Experienced Wage and Hour Violation Attorney
There are strict time limits for filing wage and hour claims. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover unpaid wages. That’s why it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as you suspect a problem.
Even if you’re not sure whether your employer broke the law, we can help you get clarity. At Solomon Law Firm, PLLC, we offer confidential consultations and practical advice. If your employer has shortchanged you, we’re ready to help you take the next step. Call us today to schedule a consultation.