Employee misclassification is a pervasive issue that directly impacts the rights, wages, and benefits of workers across various industries. Employees misclassified as independent contractors or as overtime-exempt may be deprived of critical protections, such as overtime pay, unemployment benefits, or health coverage. Addressing these issues with an employee misclassification lawyer in New York is crucial to maintaining a compliant workplace and safeguarding workers’ legal rights. Miller Shah offers professional guidance regarding these and other employment matters.
Employee misclassification occurs when an employer inaccurately labels a worker as an independent contractor or as an overtime-exempt employee, rather than as a non-exempt employee entitled to specific protections. This often happens because employers benefit financially by avoiding costs associated with employees, such payroll taxes, overtime compensation, or adhering to workers’ compensation laws.Â
While it might seem like little more than a technical oversight, misclassification can result in substantial losses for workers. It cheats employees out of fair pay, essential benefits, and workplace protections. As a result, it can leave individuals financially vulnerable, with fewer resources available when they need them most.Â
For workers, being misclassified can have severe consequences. The financial toll includes lost minimum wage protections, unpaid overtime, and lack of access to benefits such as paid leave or healthcare. Beyond monetary implications, misclassification often saddles workers with decreased job security and excludes them from important legal protections such as anti-discrimination laws or safety regulations.Â
The issue also ripples into the broader economy. Misclassification costs states and federal agencies billions of dollars annually in unpaid taxes and reduces contributions to programs like unemployment insurance or Social Security. For employers, misclassification can result in hefty fines, contentious litigation, and damaged goodwill.
Navigating the complexities of misclassification laws requires a thorough understanding of federal and state regulations, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and New York labor laws. Hiring a knowledgeable employee misclassification lawyer in New York can make all the difference. An experienced employment attorney, like those at Miller Shah, can help workers understand their rights and determine whether their employment classification complies with applicable laws. If the attorney believes you may be facing misclassification, she can help you file a claim and take the necessary actions to vindicate your rights as an employee. She can also help you maximize your compensation, assisting in advocating for damages to make up for your unpaid overtime, wages, and benefits. Â
At Miller Shah, we are proud to help workers protect their employee status. Our New York misclassification lawyers have a proven track record of successfully representing workers in misclassification cases, recovering meaningful monetary settlements for our clients and creating lasting positive changes to employment practices across industries.Â
We are also experienced in handling class action lawsuits, which can be particularly impactful when misclassification affects large groups of employees within a company. We are equipped to handle even the most complex cases and are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.Â
When you partner with Miller Shah, you gain a trusted legal advocate who prioritizes your best interests. We understand the high stakes involved and are committed to delivering results, providing clear communication and compassionate guidance throughout every step of your case.Â
If you believe you’ve been misclassified, don’t wait to seek legal counsel. Contact an employee misclassification lawyer in New York today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights and recover what you are owed.