Washington’s Wage Payment Act of 2006 has made it easier for employees to collect unpaid wages via the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). The law gives L&I the authority to collect wages — with interest, mind you — on behalf of workers. In effect, the Wage Payment Act strengthened state oversight of Washington employers, ensuring their compliance with wage and hour laws.
If your employer intentionally withheld wages, you may be entitled to double the amount withheld. Keep in mind, however, that L&I isn’t interested in seeing you walk away with punitive damages. The Wage Payment Act does not say, however, that you can’t still pursue a traditional course of action. Only by working with an experienced employment attorney can you ensure your right to sue a negligent employer
If you are currently grappling with a wage and/or hour dispute, you must take action as soon as possible. For example, if you obtain a citation against your employer but fail to file suit within 10 days, you’ll be prohibited from doing so in the future. Don’t gamble with your financial security — schedule your appointment with Stanley A. Kempner Jr. Attorney at Law now.
Contact us today if you have a potential Wage Disputes case.
Stanley A. Kempner Jr. Attorney at Law assists Spokane County residents with cases involving family law, including divorce, child custody, visitation and parenting plans, child support, modifications, paternity, and spousal support, as well as those involving employment law, including discrimination, unemployment benefits, sexual harassment, wage/hour disputes, whistleblower actions, severance agreements, wrongful termination, employment agreements, and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
