Most workplace problems can be handled with a simple conversation. Your hours get mixed up. You disagree with your manager about a project. Maybe you just have a bad day with a coworker. Either way, you discuss the issue and then you just… move on.
But some problems are much more serious. When an issue starts affecting certain aspects – such as your pay, your job, or your ability to feel safe and respected at work – it is time to get some outside advice.
Keep reading on to learn the issues that could require legal assistance.
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Wage Theft
You work for your paycheck, so finding out that you’re not being paid everything you’re owed can be incredibly frustrating.
Wage problems take different forms. You might be paid less than you agreed to. You might have overtime left off your paycheck. You might notice that some of the hours you’ve worked aren’t being counted. In other cases, an employer may make deductions that don’t seem right.
If you’ve raised the issue with your employer and the problem continues, don’t simply assume there’s nothing you can do. That’s often incorrect. So, keep your pay stubs, timesheets, employment agreement, and relevant messages. Such records will show what you were paid and what you believe you should have received.
For employees tackling wage claims in Oakland, get legal advice. This helps clarify whether the situation violated applicable wage laws and what steps are available.
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Unfair Dismissal
Losing your job is difficult – no matter the circumstances. It’s even more upsetting when you believe you were leg go for an improper reason.
An employer may have legitimate reasons for terminating someone. Not every unfair-feeling firing is necessarily unlawful, though. The circumstances around your dismissal matter here.
If you were fired after making a complaint or requesting a legally protected leave, take a closer look at what happened. The little details matter here, too. You need proof, so keep copies of termination notices, emails, performance reviews, and other documents related to your employment.
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Harassment
Everyone deserves to be treated with basic respect at work.
Harassment creates a hostile work environment. Unwanted comments. Offensive jokes. Intimidation. The details matter here. Whatever occurs, you need to keep note of the details – what was said or done, how often it happened, and who was involved, for example.
Consider documenting incidents as they happen if you are being harassed. This will be beneficial when following your workplace’s reporting procedure.
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Whistleblower Retaliation
Speaking up about wrongdoing at work is uncomfortable. Very few individuals enjoy confrontation, even those that are peaceful. This only worsens if you are worrying that you could be punished as a result. After all, this does happen – illegally.
Retaliation happens in many ways. Demotions. Cut hours. Even job loss! These events will typically occur after reporting certain misconduct. The timing and circumstances are crucial.
If you notice a major change in your treatment after making a complaint, keep a record of incidents. It is best to include what happened before and after speaking up, to provide context.
To conclude, don’t just wait for a workplace problem to become a full-blown legal dispute before asking questions. This is wasted time. Instead, get advice early on. As a result, you’ll understand where you stand and avoid making a decision you’ll regret later.
