Wage & Hour Violation Attorneys Albany NY 

 You work hard, and your paycheck should reflect that. But when your employer plays games with your wages, it’s frustrating. It’s unfair. You shouldn’t have to fight just to get paid what you’re owed. That’s where we come in. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, our team of employment lawyers will stand up for you and make sure you get every dollar you deserve. 

Is Your Paycheck Disappearing? Let’s Put a Stop to It 

Ever looked at your paycheck and thought, “Wait, where did my money go?” Those sneaky deductions can add up fast. In New York, employers can only deduct certain things—like health insurance or union dues—and only if you’ve agreed to it in writing. If they’re taking money for broken equipment, shortages, or “mistakes,” that’s illegal. You don’t have to put up with it. 

Here’s what you can do: 

• Check Your Pay Stubs: Look for any deductions you don’t recognize. Every paycheck should have a breakdown—make sure it adds up. 
• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to demand an explanation. Your employer is legally required to tell you why money is missing. 
• Know Your Rights: New York Labor Law § 193 protects you from unfair wage deductions. Employers can’t just take your money because they feel like it. 
• Get Legal Help: If something feels off, it probably is. You can challenge illegal deductions and get your money back with the help of wage and hour dispute attorneys who know how to fight for your rights. 

Your paycheck is yours. Don’t let your employer take what you’ve rightfully earned. The labor lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, are ready to fight back against wage theft and protect your rights. 

Working Off the Clock? That’s Wage Theft—Here’s How to Fight Back 

You clock out, but your boss asks you to “just finish up one last thing.” Maybe you’re answering emails during lunch, or setting up before your shift even starts. It might seem small, but it adds up. And guess what? It’s illegal. If you’re working, you should be getting paid. Period. 

Here’s how to make sure you get paid for every minute: 

• Keep Track of Your Time: Write down every minute you spend working—before, during, and after your shift. 
• Speak Up: Tell your boss you expect to be paid for all your time. If they push back, remind them of the law. 
• File a Complaint: The New York State Department of Labor takes wage theft seriously. You can file a claim and get back what you’re owed. 

If your employer is violating wage laws, you may also have a Fair Labor Standards Act claim, which allows you to recover unpaid wages and additional damages. 

Your time is valuable. Don’t work for free. 

Scared to Speak Up? Retaliation Is Illegal—You’re Protected 

Worried about losing your job if you report a wage violation? You’re not alone. But here’s the thing: New York law protects you from retaliation. If your boss tries to punish you for standing up for yourself, they’re breaking the law. That means firing you, cutting your hours, or even making your job miserable could get them in serious trouble. 

What to do if you’re facing retaliation: 

• Document Everything: Keep a record of any threats, schedule changes, or unfair treatment after you speak up. 
• Report It: File a complaint with the New York State Department of Labor. Retaliation claims need to be filed within two years. 
• Get Legal Help: If your employer is trying to push you out, you have legal options. You could be entitled to back pay, job reinstatement, and even additional compensation. 

You shouldn’t have to choose between fair pay and job security. The law is on your side. 

No Breaks? No Way—Your Boss Can’t Treat You Like a Machine 

You work hard. You need time to breathe. New York law requires your boss to give you meal breaks, but some employers act like they don’t care. If you’re working through lunch or being told to “just eat while you work,” that’s a problem. You’re entitled to your break—no excuses. Our Albany lawyers are ready to fight back against employers who don’t follow the rules. 

How to make sure you get your breaks: 

• Know Your Rights: New York Labor Law § 162 states that if you work more than six hours, you get at least a 30-minute unpaid meal break. 
• Keep Track: If you’re constantly missing breaks, write it down. A pattern of skipped breaks can prove a violation. 
• Call It Out: Tell your boss you need your break. If they refuse, remind them they’re violating labor laws. 
• Take Action: Employers who don’t provide breaks can face penalties. You can report them and get justice. 

Your time is yours. Take your break—you’ve earned it. 

Confused About New York Wage Laws? We’ll Make It Simple 

Wage laws can feel overwhelming. But here’s what you really need to know: 

• Minimum Wage: It changes based on location and employer size. Make sure you’re getting the right amount. 
• Overtime Pay: If you work over 40 hours a week, you should be making time and a half—no exceptions. 
• Deductions: Your boss can’t just take money from your paycheck unless it directly benefits you and you’ve agreed to it. 
• Record Keeping: New York Labor Law § 195 requires employers to track your hours and wages. If they aren’t, that’s a huge red flag. 

If something doesn’t seem right, trust your gut. You deserve to be paid fairly. And if you’re dealing with wage violations, wage and hour dispute attorneys can help you take action. 

Your Boss Is Shortchanging You—Let’s Get Your Money Back 

You work hard. You deserve every penny you’ve earned. If your employer is cutting corners, breaking the rules, or straight-up stealing from you, you don’t have to accept it. You have legal rights, and we’ll fight to enforce them. 

Horn Wright, LLP, has helped countless workers in Albany and beyond recover their wages. We know the system, and we know how to hold employers accountable. If you’ve been underpaid, denied overtime, or faced retaliation, we’re ready to take action. We specialize in helping workers fight back against unfair pay practices. it's one of the reasons we’ve been recognized as one of the best law firms in America. 

Let’s get you the paycheck you deserve. Contact our Albany law office today for a FREE consultation and let’s fight for what’s yours.