Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida

Florida -- Wages withheld after termination

I worked for a law firm for all of 13.5 days & was terminated. I misplaced the first payroll check (have never, ever done that before), advised the employer I would pay a stop order fee and requested the check be replaced right away. Within an hour I was terminated and was told my pay (lost check and current period) would be paid; I even received a voicemail at home the same afternoon from the receptionist that my pay would be put in the mail --- I e-mailed them that I needed my money asap as I was now accumulating overdraft fees for automatic pymnts & needed 2 pay my mortgage & car pymnts. After several days I was e-mailed by the head attorney that my pay was being withheld pending investigation by them as to any attorney fees or malpractice that MIGHT happen due to my so-called negligence--give me a break---I demanded they pay me w/in 5 days to no avail. What are my options? I now have losses over and above overdraft fees (I was unemployed previous to starting there and behind in bills). I had an arrangement with GMAC to make a car payment and work on making up the backlog payments. Because the attorney has held my entire pay, my car was re-possessed two day before Thanksgiving --Help, Please!


Asked on 11/25/07, 9:14 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Andrew Frisch Morgan & Morgan, P.A.

Re: Florida -- Wages withheld after termination

Both Federal and Florida law generally ensure your right to be paid under the circumstances you describe. In addition to the money you've earned, under these facts, you may be entitled to liquidated (double) damages and to have your attorney's fees and costs paid by the employer who has refused you your pay. I regularly handle these types of cases on a contingency. If you'd like to speak further, feel free to call me at (877)456-WAGE for a free consultation.

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Answered on 11/26/07, 6:43 am
Stuart M. Address Law Offices of Stuart M. Address, P.A.

Re: Florida -- Wages withheld after termination

You are entitled to your wages. You may be entitled to other relief. You should contact a lawyer or at least sue for your wages in small claims court. If you would like to discuss further with my firm, please call me.

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Answered on 11/26/07, 11:13 am


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