The Virginia wage payment act is a law that requires employers to pay employees all owed compensation in a timely manner. Essentially, it sets the parameters for how and when employees are paid. This act also allows employees to file suits in court if an employer does not pay wages in accordance with the law. So, if you are dealing with unpaid wages, not being paid on time, or wage theft, an attorney can help you file a suit.
The VWPA requires employers to establish regular pay period and rates of pay for employees. Salaried employees must be paid at least once a month and hourly employees must be paid at least once every two weeks, or twice per month. There are some exceptions to this rule.
Additionally, when an employee leaves the company, the employer must pay the employee all owed wages or salaries on or before the date the employee would have been paid while employed.
Another protection under the Virginia Wage Payment Act is against unlawful withholding. This means that the employer cannot withhold any part of an employee’s wages or salaries without written and signed authorization from the employee. This does not apply to withholding taxes in accordance with the law.
If you are facing issues with your wages, you can file a suit in court. This can be done as an individual or group. If you file a suit against your employer for unpaid wages, you can recover the payment of the wages owed, double damages (called “liquidated damages”) and attorney fees. If the court finds that your employer knowingly failed to pay wages, the court can award the employee an amount equal to triple the amount of wages due.
If you are experiencing issues with wages, you need to speak to an attorney ASAP. The sooner you file your case, the better.
If you are in need of an attorney’s advice, please contact Cook, Craig, and Francuzenko today. Our firm has attorneys who specialize in a variety of practice areas. With over 100 years of combined experience, we are seasoned professionals ready to help you.
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