Understanding Employment Law Class Action Lawsuits

An employment class action lawsuit refers to a legal action filed by a large group of employees who have suffered similar types of harm from their employers. Typically, one or several employees will sue on behalf of a group of employees known as ‘the class.’

Recent data shows an increase in the number of class action lawsuits against employers, prompting them to take action to prevent possible legal missteps.

This article will offer an understanding of the types of employment law class action lawsuits, their benefits, and practical tips for employers to avoid such legal actions.

Common Types of Employment Law Violations Leading to Class Action Lawsuits

• Workplace Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace occurs when a significant number of employees are treated differently based on factors such as their race, gender, religion, disability, and more. Workplace discrimination is a serious matter and can be a basis for a lawsuit.

• Workplace Harassment

Harassment in the workplace comes in many forms, such as demanding sexual favors in exchange for a promotion, threats of violence, and inappropriate behaviors. These activities are all grounds for a lawsuit.

• Wage and Hour Dispute

This pertains to disputes related to overtime and minimum wage. Employees who are not paid for the hours they worked, not paid the minimum wage, not compensated for their overtime work, or anything that violates the Fair Labor Standards Act may file an employment class action lawsuit against their employer.

• Wrongful Termination Allegations

Employees who are fired or laid off for unlawful reasons may be able to file a claim for wrongful termination against their employer. Wrongful termination claims encompass alleged violations of federal or state antidiscrimination laws, employment agreements, labor laws, and whistleblower laws.

Benefits of Pursuing an Employment Law Class Action Lawsuit

Potential benefits of an employment law class action lawsuit are as follows:

• Monetary compensation: Monetary compensation will be given to plaintiffs if they win the case, or a settlement is reached.
• Injunctive relief: The court can issue an injunction that requires employers to change their practices, benefiting the class action members and preventing similar violations in the future.
• Awareness of employment law: A class action lawsuit can make employers aware of employment law violations.
• Change in the workplace: Changes in workplace policies that benefit employees can result from employment law class action lawsuits.
• Access to justice: Class action lawsuits can provide a means for individual employees to seek justice for workplace violations that cannot be addressed individually.

Practical Steps for Employers to Avoid Class Action Lawsuits

• Be aware of any changes in the employment laws.
• Enforce policies in a fair and equal way.
• Train employees on wage and hour laws.
• Properly record the hours worked by nonexempt workers.
• Audit wage and time-keeping practices to flag potential problems.
• Have a fair and efficient workplace.

Gaining a comprehensive understanding of employment class action lawsuits is crucial for both employees and employers. Whether you’re an individual seeking justice or an employer aiming to foster a compliant and respectful workplace, knowledge of employment law class actions is a powerful tool.

Deepen your understanding of class action litigation in employment law at our webcast: Employment Law Class Action Update: Analyzing Recent Trends and Developments