Attorneys

What to look for when selecting an ethical Employment Law Attorney:

Remember, when you hire an attorney you are paying for a service and you should be satisfied with the quality of that service. They should return your phone calls promptly, communicate with you personally and keep you updated on the status of your case. The attorney should also discuss the terms of your contract, including fees, up front. If you believe your attorney's performance is less than stellar, realize that you can replace them at your own discretion.

Interview them to decide which attorney you would like to handle your case. This interview takes place at an initial consultation. Don't expect your case to be solved during this visit. Consultations usually last 30 minutes so be prepared. Here are a few tips to get you ready.

• Write down your story, in your own words before your meeting to organize all of your thoughts;

• Make sure to bring copies of any documents that may affect your case;

• Give your attorney any names or dates that affect your case so the attorney has an idea of who is involved;

• Be prepared to answer all the attorney's questions; the attorney knows which questions to ask to help you;

• Always tell the truth even if you think some details may hurt your case.

• Don't lie or exaggerate the facts;

• Avoid becoming too emotional;

• Make sure you feel comfortable before leaving the attorney office. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Questions to ask when selecting a company in this industry:

1. How long have you been in business?

2. Do I need legal representation for my problem?

3. Have you handled cases like mine in the past?

4. What have results been on my type of case?

5. Will you be handling my case personally? If not, what kind of work will you be doing and who will be doing the rest of the work?

6. How available are you for meetings and phone calls?

7. How do you handle fees? Get a written retainer including:

   • Charges: Do you charge by the hour, a flat rate or contingency?

   • Services that are included

   • Extra fees that will be assessed

   • How you will be billed

8. What are the possible outcomes in cases such as this?

9. How long do you expect this matter to take?

10. What are my alternatives?

11. Do you recommend arbitration or mediation?

PANTAS LAW TIPS EMPLOYMENT LAW

The vast majority of all employees are entitled to overtime pay even if they are paid a salary, by the day, by the piece, by the load, by the job, or by commission. If you are not being paid time and a half for all hours worked over 40 per week, it is best to make a 5 minute free telephone call to a qualified overtime attorney and find out if you are entitled to overtime pay for up to the last 3 years and possibly double damages. It does not matter if you:

1. Did not keep track of your overtime hours.

2. Agreed not to be paid overtime.

3. Labeled as an "independent contractor."

4. Do not currently work for that employer.

5. Don't remember exactly how much you may be owed.

6. Can't afford to hire an attorney (the employer must pay all fees and costs).

7. Were paid "comp-time" in lieu of overtime pay.

Jobs that are generally entitled to overtime pay, but typically are not paid overtime include: Mortgage Originators & Salespersons, Plumbers, Construction Superintendents, Customer Service Representatives, Warranty Servicepersons, Construction Supervisors, Builders, Paralegals, Secretaries, Salaried Office Workers, Cashiers, Electricians, Electrician's Helpers, Journeymen, A/C Installers & Servicepersons, Local (within Florida) Delivery Drivers, Cement Truck Drivers & Helpers, Trash Truck Drivers & Helpers, Tow Truck Drivers & Helpers, Pizza Delivery Drivers, Newspaper Route Drivers, Supply Delivery Drivers, Drivers of Vehicles under 10,001 Lbs., Draftsmen, Detailers & Designers, Cable & Satellite Installers, Computer/IT Employees, Call Center Employees, Assistant Managers/Shift Supervisors, Field Service Technicians, Mechanics & Service Writers (not part of a Dealership), Route Drivers, Delivery Drivers, Repairpersons, School Bus Drivers, and many other jobs.

Pantas Law Firm, P.A.

We are a full service Overtime & Unpaid Wages law firm. We are not “occasional” filers of overtime cases like most other firms. Our firm files literally hundreds of overtime cases each year for our clients.

We accept all cases on a pure contingency fee and costs basis regardless of the amount of the claim. We represent Employees, not Employers. We offer potential Wage & Hour clients free consultations either over the telephone or at our office.

If you’re being paid by salary, commission, by the day, or by the job, and are not receiving overtime pay, call us or visit www.PantasLaw.com and use our online Overtime Case Screener & Damages Calculator to find out if you should be getting overtime pay.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.  Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

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