Retaliated Against For Asking Your Employer For Fair Wages? I Can Help.
When your employer underpays you or otherwise violates Ohio’s wage and hour laws, you have every legal right to file a dispute. Both federal and state laws protect you from retaliation – but not every employer gets the message. If you suddenly lost your job or experienced other adverse actions after initiating a wage and hour dispute, you may be the victim of workplace retaliation.
I am attorney Michael W. DeWitt, and I have been advocating for the rights of Ohio workers throughout the Columbus metro area for more than 24 years. As a former employer defense lawyer, I have unique insights into the way that companies react to retaliation claims. I know how to leverage that knowledge to your advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retaliation Over Wage And Hour Disputes
When your world has been abruptly turned upside down, it is only normal to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions I hear.
What laws in Ohio protect employees from retaliation for filing a wage and hour dispute?
The primary federal law addressing this issue is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which makes it illegal to retaliate against employees who assert their rights to minimum wages and overtime. Ohio workers enjoy additional protections under the Ohio Minimum Fair Wage Standards Act. Asserting a claim for fair wages is considered a protected activity for which you cannot be punished by your employer.
How do I prove retaliation in a wage and hour dispute in Ohio?
A successful retaliation claim requires establishing a clear connection between your wage and hour claim and the adverse employment action that was taken.
What evidence do I need to establish a case of retaliation?
Evidence can include the timing of the action and a clear contrast between how you were treated and how your work performance was judged before and after you made your wage claim. Witness statements, performance reviews, write-ups and written communications with your employer may all prove valuable.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a retaliation claim in Ohio?
You only have two years from the date of the retaliation to file your claim. If you wait too long to act, you lose the right to bring your claim forever.
What kinds of actions are considered retaliatory by an employer?
If you were not fired for the wage and hour dispute, retaliation can take several other forms, including demotions, reductions in hours, changes to undesirable shifts, unwanted transfers, harassment and other adverse actions.
What are the potential remedies or outcomes if I win a retaliation case?
The remedies available to you will depend on your specific situation, but they can include reinstatement to your position, back pay, front pay, compensatory damages for your pain and suffering and punitive damages.
Talk To Me About Your Options
At DeWitt Law, I keep your goals in mind and work hard to get the results you want. Call my Columbus office today at 614-762-9641 to schedule your free initial consultation, or reach out to my office by email. Let me fight this battle for you.