Wage and hour disputes are among the most common legal conflicts in the workplace. Employees often face issues such as unpaid overtime, misclassification, minimum wage violations, improper deductions, and retaliation for wage-related complaints. Understanding the laws and procedures that govern wage and hour disputes empowers employees to protect their rights effectively.
This course provides an in-depth, structured approach to navigating wage and hour disputes from the employee’s perspective. It explores key federal and state labor laws, enforcement mechanisms, legal options available to employees, and practical steps for filing complaints and pursuing claims. By the end of this course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and strategies to handle wage disputes confidently, whether through administrative agencies or litigation.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
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Understand federal and state wage and hour laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
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Identify common wage violations and recognize when an employer is acting unlawfully.
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Differentiate between exempt and non-exempt employee classifications and their impact on wage rights.
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Understand overtime pay requirements and how to claim unpaid wages.
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Learn how to document wage violations effectively for legal and administrative purposes.
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Explore enforcement mechanisms through the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and state labor boards.
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Understand the steps to file a complaint and the legal protections against employer retaliation.
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Learn about options for settlement, arbitration, and litigation in wage disputes.
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Explore special wage and hour issues related to independent contractors, tipped workers, and gig economy employees.
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Develop strategies for negotiating settlements and securing compensation for lost wages.
