Chicago Wage & Hour Attorneys

When an employer fails to pay you fairly, it’s not just frustrating—they may be breakng. At 1818 Litigation Attorneys, our Chicago wage and hour lawyers help employees stand up for their rights under Illinois and federal law.

Whether you’re dealing with unpaid overtime, withheld wages, misclassification, or illegal deductions, we are here to fight for you.

Know Your Rights Under Illinois Wage & Hour Laws

Both federal and state laws protect employees from wage theft and unfair pay practices. In Illinois, the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, the Illinois Minimum Wage Law, and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) set strict rules for how and when you must be paid.

Employers are required to:

• Pay at least the minimum wage for every hour worked
• Pay overtime (1.5x your regular rate) for hours over 40 in a week (unless properly exempt)
• Provide accurate wage statements
• Pay earned wages on time, including bonuses, commissions, and unused vacation when required
• Comply with meal and rest break requirements under state law

If your paycheck doesn’t reflect the hours you’ve worked, you may be a victim of wage and hour violations—and you have legal options.

Common Wage & Hour Violations We See in Chicago

Our firm handles a wide range of wage and hour cases. Some of the most common issues include:

Unpaid Overtime

If you’re a non‑exempt employee and you’ve worked over 40 hours in a week, you’re entitled to overtime pay, even if you’re paid a salary. Some employers misclassify employees as “exempt” to avoid paying overtime. We know how to challenge that.

Misclassification as Independent Contractors

Employers sometimes label workers as “independent contractors” when they actually function as employees. misclassification or forcing you to be an independent contractor can illegally deny you overtime, benefits, and other protections.

Withholding or Deducting Pay

It’s unlawful for employers to withhold earned wages or deduct pay for items like uniforms or equipment unless very specific rules are followed.

Unpaid Final Paychecks

Illinois law requires timely payment of all earned wages after termination or resignation. Failure to provide a final paycheck can lead to penalties.

Off-the-Clock Work

If you’re pressured to work before clocking in, after clocking out, or through meal breaks without pay, you may be entitled to compensation.

These practices are illegal, and you don’t have to tolerate them.

What Can You Recover in a Wage & Hour Claim?

Employees who prove wage and hour violations can recover far more than the missing pay itself. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:

• Unpaid wages and overtime pay you were denied
• Liquidated damages (often doubling the amount owed)
• Interest on unpaid wages
• Attorneys’ fees and litigation costs
• Statutory penalties for violations of Illinois wage laws

Example: If your employer owes you $5,000 in unpaid overtime, you may be eligible for double that amount in damages plus attorneys’ fees.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Wage Theft

Protecting your claim starts with a few important steps:

1. Gather Evidence

Keep detailed records of your hours worked, paystubs, schedules, and any emails or texts about your pay. Your notes and documents can be critical evidence.

2. Report Concerns Internally

Follow your company’s procedures to raise concerns with HR or management. Document those communications.  Try and resolve the problem before contacting an attorney.

3. Contact a Wage & Hour Attorney

Illinois law has strict filing deadlines for wage claims. Speaking with a lawyer early can preserve your rights and strengthen your case.

How 1818 Litigation Attorneys Can Help

At 1818, we know how to hold employers accountable. Our Chicago wage and hour attorneys bring together decades of legal and regulatory experience to help employees fight back against wage theft and pay violations.

When you work with us, you get:

• Thorough Case Evaluation: We analyze your pay records and job duties to identify violations.
• Strategic Legal Action: We file complaints with the Illinois Department of Labor or U.S. Department of Labor and pursue litigation if necessary.
• Aggressive Representation: We negotiate settlements or take your case to court to secure every dollar you’re owed.
• Compassionate Support: We guide you through the process, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Your hard work deserves fair pay. We’re here to make sure you get it.

Why Choose 1818 Litigation Attorneys?

Founded by Jordan Matyas, a lawyer with nearly 30 years of experience working within and alongside government agencies, 1818 brings unique insight into how Illinois regulatory bodies and courts operate. We don’t just understand the law—we know how to use it to protect employees like you.

What sets us apart:

• Extensive Wage & Hour Experience: We’ve helped employees recover unpaid wages and overtime across a wide range of industries.
• Local Knowledge: Based in Chicago, we know the city’s employers, labor agencies, and courts.
• Proven Results: Our team has a track record of securing significant recoveries for wronged employees.
• Full-Service Advocacy: From litigation to strategic communication, we go beyond the basics to safeguard your career and reputation.

At 1818 Litigation Attorneys, we fight as hard for your paycheck as you do.

FAQs About Wage & Hour Violations in Chicago

My employer says I’m “salaried,” so I don’t get overtime. Is that true?

Not necessarily. Being paid a salary does not automatically make you exempt from overtime. We can review your duties to see if you’ve been misclassified.

What if I agreed to work for less than minimum wage?

That agreement is not enforceable. Employers must pay at least the minimum wage, no matter what you agreed to.

How far back can I claim unpaid wages?

Generally, you can recover up to 10 years of unpaid wages under Illinois law.

Can I be fired for filing a wage claim?

No. Retaliation for asserting your wage and hour rights is illegal.

Do I have to pay upfront to hire you?

No. Many wage and hour cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if we recover money for you.

Resources for Illinois Employees

These organizations can also help you understand and assert your wage and hour rights:

• Illinois Department of Labor – Wage claim forms and guidance (312‑793‑2800)
• U.S. Department of Labor – Wage and Hour Division – Federal wage law enforcement (866‑487‑9243)

Speak With a Chicago Wage & Hour Attorney Today

You put in the hours. You deserve the pay. If your employer has denied you wages, overtime, or benefits, don’t wait another day. 1818 Litigation Attorneys will fight to recover what you’re owed and hold your employer accountable.

Call or request a confidential consultation online today.

Let us help you take the next step toward justice and fair compensation.