Overtime pay is one of the most misunderstood—and most violated—worker protections in Pennsylvania. Many employees still believe that being paid a salary automatically disqualifies them from overtime. Others assume small amounts of extra time do not matter, or that employers can simply refuse to pay overtime if it was not approved in advance. In 2026,…
Unpaid overtime is one of the most common—and often overlooked—violations of employee rights in the workplace. Many New Jersey workers clock in extra hours every week, unaware they’re entitled to time-and-a-half for the effort. Others know their rights but fear retaliation if they speak up. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This legal guide…
Introduction: Don’t Just Sign—Negotiate You’ve just been let go. You’re feeling stunned, maybe even relieved, and now you’re staring at a severance agreement on your desk. It promises a few weeks of pay if you sign—and quickly. But before you pick up that pen, stop. What many workers don’t realize is that severance agreements are…
Introduction: When Does a Microaggression Become More Than Just a Comment? Imagine this: You’re in a meeting, confidently sharing your ideas, when a colleague chuckles and says, “Wow, you’re really articulate for someone like you.” You pause, unsure how to respond. It wasn’t an outright insult, but it felt off—uncomfortable, dismissive, and subtly undermining.…
Have you ever wondered if you’re being paid fairly for your hard work? Or maybe you’re concerned that your employer might be skirting the rules when it comes to overtime or breaks. Understanding your rights as an employee in New Jersey is the first step to ensuring you’re treated fairly—and knowing when to take action…
The economic challenges of 2024 have led to a surge in layoffs across New Jersey, leaving many workers unsure of their rights and options. If you’ve been laid off—or fear you might be—understanding your severance rights is critical to securing your financial future. Swartz Swidler, a trusted name in employment law, has helped countless workers…
Receiving a late paycheck can be incredibly stressful, especially if you rely on timely payments to cover bills and expenses. Unfortunately, many employees face this issue at some point in their careers. However, it’s essential to know your legal rights and the steps you can take to address this situation. Swartz Swidler is here to…
Just received notice of your layoff? Congratulations on your upcoming severance package… but hold on! A severance agreement might be included, and it’s critical to understand its contents before signing anything. This seemingly simple document can have significant legal and financial implications for your future. Taking a moment to carefully review the severance agreement with…
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, most workers in the U.S. are entitled to receive the federal minimum wage, which is currently set at $7.25 per hour. They are also entitled to receive overtime pay of time and one-half for each hour that is worked during a workweek beyond 40 hours. The law defines work…
In some cases in New Jersey, people who lose their jobs are eligible to receive unemployment benefits for a certain duration of time. The New Jersey Unemployment Compensation Law works as a safety net for workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. If you have lost your job, you might…