The cost of filing a wage claim is a common concern when you have already lost out on your hard earned money due to wage disputes. You work hard for your money, and it is only fair that you get paid what you are legally owed. Most employment attorneys work on a contingency basis. This means they don’t get paid until you do and front all case expenses.
The Cost of Filing a Wage Claim with the DOL is Generally Minimal
The average cost of filing a wage claim varies depending on your state, the jurisdiction where you file the claim and the complexity of your case. In general, filing a wage claim does not involve upfront fees or costs for you.
Many state labor agencies or departments allow you to file wage claims without charging a fee. These agencies enforce state labor laws, and handle wage and hour complaints. They often provide resources and processes for you to file claims without any direct costs.
The Cost of Filing a Wage Claim with Employment Lawyers
Employment lawyers representing employees in unpaid wages cases often work on a contingency basis. This means they do not require upfront fees from you; instead, they agree to be paid a percentage of the amount recovered if they successfully win the case or secure a settlement on your behalf.
The specific percentage or fee arrangement varies depending on the lawyer and in which court your case is filed. Discussing the fee structure and any potential expenses or costs with the attorney before you engage their services is essential.
Working on a contingency basis can be beneficial if you don’t have the financial means to pay for legal representation up front. Instead, it allows you to pursue your unpaid wage claims without significant costs. However, it’s essential to clarify the terms of the contingency arrangement with your lawyer and ensure that you understand the agreed-upon fee structure.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA) generally states that employers are responsible for paying employees the wages they are owed. The FLSA also provides that employees who successfully pursue their wage claims are entitled to recover their reasonable legal fees and costs from the employer. The court decides the amount of reasonable legal fees and expenses to award employees who win their case. The court is not required to follow any fee agreement when the court awards employees their attorney’s fees and costs.
We will assess your claim during a free case evaluation and explain the process and costs involved so you know what to expect.
A Class Action Claim May Be More Cost Effective
Combining your wage claim with the claims of other employees may make it more cost-effective to pursue legal action. You can share the associated costs by joining forces with other employees in a collective or class action. This can include attorney fees, court filing fees, and expert witness fees. Employers may also be more inclined to engage in meaningful discussions and settle the claims collectively.
Rowdy Meeks Legal Group LLC: Assessing Unpaid Wage Claims Nationwide
At Rowdy Meeks Legal Group LLC, we want you to receive the money you are legally owed for work done.
We offer a free case evaluation and will discuss your wage claim and explain the process of further legal action. So, if you want to find out more about the cost of filing a wage claim, contact us today to talk about how we can help you recover the money your employer owes you.