Equal Pay
The Equal Pay Act is a law that obligates employers to pay the same wage for the same level of work and responsibility. It was designed to protect workers from discriminatory behavior by employers where some people were paid more than others for the same job. Oftentimes, this type of discrimination happened along gender lines although other parameters exist. If you feel that you are the victim of this kind of discrimination, you can file a claim under the Equal Pay Act. Come talk to us at Carcich O’Shea, LLC for a confidential review of your case.
Understanding Equal Pay Claims
The Equal Pay Act was passed by the United States Congress in 1963. Under it, it requires employees to get the same pay for the same work and responsibilities. Under this law, the employee must prove that the work he or she is doing is exactly the same (skills, responsibilities, etc.) as another higher-paying job in the same organization. The employee does not need to prove that the discrimination was along gender lines for the suit to be successful.
Why Should You Hire Attorneys for Equal Pay Claims?
Given the nuanced nature of equal pay claims, it is important to engage a lawyer the minute you know that there is a problem with the pay structure. A lawyer will immediately start to guide you on what kind of evidence is required to prove the claims. This makes it more likely that your case will be a success. The other important reason to bring a lawyer on board is the fact that your employer is likely to fight back with his or her lawyers. Without an experienced attorney by your side, you are likely to lose your case.
Common FAQs about Equal Pay Claims
The law requires you to prove that you are doing the same job, with the same responsibilities and working conditions for less pay. The act, however, recognizes exemptions to this rule such as under a merit or seniority system.
This differs from case to case but generally, the law may demand that you be promoted to your rightful position. The court may also order the payment of the differential amounts owed to you. If the employer is found to have willfully conducted such a discriminatory policy, the court may add more punitive measures against him or her.
Given that there are legitimate reasons why two employees can have different pay, it is best to talk to a lawyer first. This way, you get a professional review of your case and whether you qualify to file a claim under the Equal Pay Act.
No. Your employer would be breaking the law if he or she fired you for bringing such a claim. If you feel that you are being punished for demanding equal pay, talk to an experienced employment attorney for advice.
Yes. Even though a large number of claims under this law involve women being discriminated in the workplace, there are instances where men are paid less for equal work. In such cases, the aggrieved employees are free to file claims under this act.
Choose Carcich O'Shea, LLC for Experienced Employment Law Attorneys
At Carcich O’Shea, LLC, we understand that the law can sometimes sound complicated and even self-contradictory. This is why we ensure that we give you all your legal options as clearly as possible. We also guarantee that any communication we have with you is confidential and will never get back to your employer unless you authorize us. You need not worry about your budget as our fees and rates are very competitive. We also offer excellent customer service and will keep you updated about your case every step of the way.
If you have more questions about our legal expertise in equal pay claims, please contact us today. Alternatively, you may call us at 201-988-1308 or send an email to carcichoshea@gmail.com.
