Glendale Employment Lawyer Shares If You Can Be Forced To Work Overtime

The team at D.Law often hears the question, “Can you be forced to work overtime?” Labor laws may be complex for different types of workers wondering about mandatory overtime, but an employment lawyer in Glendale, CA, can help you understand the legal guidelines.

D.Law’s experienced team of attorneys is here to break down the wage and hour laws pertaining to Glendale workers.

State and Federal Labor Laws Allow Mandatory Overtime for Glendale Workers

According to the Fair Labor Standards Act, employees may work more than 40 hours a week, which is considered overtime. California labor laws don’t set a limit on how many hours someone can work overtime. However, employers must remain compliant with the law if they have non-exempt workers on staff.

Those classified as exempt employees or independent contractors may work over 40 hours a week without receiving additional compensation. Such laborers have a fixed salary that is not based on the hours they work.

On the other hand, non-exempt employees are entitled to receive overtime pay. For any additional hours worked, they shall receive wages 1.5 times their standard hourly rate. If a non-exempt employee earns $20 an hour and their employer requires them to work overtime, they would then receive $30 for every hour worked beyond their standard schedule.

How Different Industries May Approach Overtime Work

Can you be forced to work overtime in any workplace? Not necessarily. Every employee has nuances based on their industry and normal work requirements, as D.Law explains.

For instance, healthcare workers may work up to 12 hours a day, whereas the standard workday for other industries is typically eight hours. These professionals are eligible for overtime pay if they work more than 12 hours in a given day and over 40 hours per week. When they do work overtime, their hourly wage is double their standard rate.

Mandated overtime may not be ethical if it makes for an unsafe working environment. A fatigued truck driver, for example, could make mistakes behind the wheel that put themself and others in harm’s way. Employers must keep this in mind and abide by California’s day of rest rule for non-exempt employees.

How To Address an Employer’s Labor Law Violations

Employers are usually able to mandate overtime. However, they may be violating labor laws if they don’t pay eligible employees the proper wages.

Consult an employment attorney about potential labor law violations. They may review the details of the case and assess potential strategies. Depending on the circumstances, employees may consider filing a formal complaint or pursuing legal action against their employer.

Speak With a Glendale Employment Attorney for More Information

Stop wondering, “Can you be forced to work overtime?” D.Law attorneys can provide clarity given their vast understanding of California labor laws. With offices throughout the state, including a location in Glendale, workers have access to experienced employment attorneys.

For more insight into the legality of overtime pay, employment contracts, and more, contact D.Law today at (818) 275-5799.