Tampa Employment Lawyer
Protecting Workers’ Rights in Tampa
Employment law in Florida is designed to protect employees from unfair treatment, wage theft, and wrongful termination while also ensuring businesses comply with labor regulations. Tampa’s workforce includes professionals across industries such as healthcare, hospitality, and finance, all of whom are entitled to fair treatment in the workplace. When issues such as discrimination, unpaid wages, retaliation, or contractual disputes arise, a Tampa employment lawyer can provide legal guidance. Scott Law Team advocates for employees facing workplace injustices, ensuring they receive the compensation and protections they deserve.
Workplace Discrimination and Harassment
Employees in Tampa have legal protections against workplace discrimination under both federal and state laws. Discrimination can occur in hiring, promotions, pay rates, or termination based on:
- Race, ethnicity, or national origin
- Gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity
- Age (40 and older under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act)
- Disability or medical conditions
- Pregnancy or family status
- Religious beliefs
Employers must create a workplace free of harassment, including sexual harassment, which can involve inappropriate remarks, physical advances, or a hostile work environment. Employees who experience discrimination or harassment can file complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR). Scott Law Team assists workers through these legal processes to hold employers accountable.
Employee Rights and Florida Labor Laws
Workers in Tampa are entitled to several rights under employment laws, including:
- A minimum wage of $12.00 per hour as of 2024, with scheduled increases.
- Overtime pay for employees working more than 40 hours per week, unless exempt.
- Safe workplace conditions under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA).
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections for eligible employees needing medical or family-related leave.
Employers who fail to meet these requirements may face legal penalties. Scott Law Team represents employees in wage disputes, workplace safety violations, and FMLA claims to ensure they receive the benefits and pay they are entitled to.
Wage and Overtime Violations
Many Tampa employees experience wage violations, including failure to pay overtime wages, misclassification as independent contractors, or illegal paycheck deductions. Employers must comply with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which guarantees workers the right to minimum wage and overtime pay.
If an employee suspects they are being underpaid, they should:
- Review their pay stubs for missing wages or improper deductions.
- Request payroll records to confirm hours worked.
- Consult an employment attorney to explore legal options for recovering unpaid wages.
Scott Law Team aggressively pursues wage claims on behalf of employees to recover lost earnings.
Retaliation and Whistleblower Protections
Workers who report illegal or unethical workplace practices are protected under Florida’s Whistleblower Act. Retaliation can include:
- Termination or demotion
- Pay reductions or loss of benefits
- Negative performance reviews in response to complaints
Additionally, employees reporting fraud in government contracts, Medicaid, or Medicare may be eligible for compensation under the False Claims Act. Scott Law Team provides legal protection for whistleblowers facing retaliation, ensuring they receive the compensation and legal safeguards they deserve.
Non-Compete Agreements and Employment Contracts
Many Tampa employees sign non-compete agreements, which restrict them from working with competitors after leaving a company. Florida courts enforce non-compete clauses only if they:
- Have a reasonable time limit (typically no more than two years).
- Are limited in geographic scope and do not prevent an employee from working entirely.
- Protect legitimate business interests, such as confidential information or trade secrets.
Employment contracts should be carefully reviewed before signing, as they often include terms regarding job duties, termination policies, benefits, and pay structure. Scott Law Team assists employees in negotiating fair employment agreements and challenging overly restrictive non-compete clauses.
Wrongful Termination in Florida
Although Florida follows an at-will employment policy, meaning an employer can fire an employee without notice, there are exceptions. Employers cannot terminate employees for:
- Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or age.
- Retaliation for reporting workplace violations or participating in investigations.
- Violations of employment contracts that specify termination conditions.
If an employee believes they have been wrongfully terminated, they should document all communications with their employer and seek legal counsel. Filing a complaint with the EEOC or FCHR may be necessary before pursuing a lawsuit. Scott Law Team represents employees in wrongful termination cases, helping them recover lost wages and seek justice.
EEOC Complaints and Workplace Investigations
Filing a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is often the first step in a workplace discrimination or retaliation claim. The process involves:
- Filing the complaint with the EEOC or FCHR within 180–300 days of the incident.
- Investigation by the agency, which may involve interviews and employer responses.
- Potential mediation or legal action, depending on the EEOC’s findings.
Employees who successfully prove their case may receive compensation for lost wages, reinstatement, or punitive damages. Scott Law Team provides legal representation throughout the EEOC investigation process and litigation if necessary.
Payroll Audits and Compliance for Employers
Tampa businesses must ensure compliance with federal and state payroll laws, which govern:
- Employee classification (exempt vs. non-exempt)
- Proper calculation of wages and overtime pay
- Legal tax reporting and payroll practices
Payroll audits help businesses avoid penalties and legal disputes while ensuring fair employee compensation. Scott Law Team provides legal assistance in payroll compliance, helping businesses and employees resolve wage-related disputes.
Employment Lawyers Serving Throughout Tampa
- Downtown Tampa
- Hyde Park
- Westshore
- Ybor City
- Seminole Heights
- Carrollwood
- New Tampa
- South Tampa
- Westchase
- Davis Islands
- Palma Ceia
- Brandon
- Temple Terrace
- Channelside
- Riverview
Speak with a Tampa Employment Attorney
If you are experiencing workplace discrimination, unpaid wages, wrongful termination, or retaliation, a Tampa employment attorney at Scott Law Team can help. Our firm is dedicated to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
