Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that deciding to initiate litigation can be one of the most stressful decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. We guide you through the process and help you understand the law as it relates to your situation. These are some of the questions we get asked most.
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How much will litigation cost?
We represent most individuals pursuing employment and/or consumer protection claims on a contingent-fee basis. This means that litigation will cost nothing unless/until you recover.
For individuals pursuing business litigation, we’re sensitive to the burdens that attorneys’ fees can pose. We endeavor to work with you to set a budget for your litigation needs and to provide the highest-caliber representation at reasonable rates.
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How much do you charge for initial consultations?
Nothing. Initial consultations are always free at Regan Strom
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If my employer classified me as an independent contractor, am I still entitled to protection under the wage laws?
Quite possibly. Employers frequently misclassify employees as independent contractors. The wage laws may still apply, and you may still be entitled to relief (including three times unpaid wages) if you were misclassified as an independent contractor.
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My entire company/industry is paid the same way, so it must be legal, right?
No. Just because one large company, or even an entire industry, pays a certain way does not make the practice legal – many illegal pay practices have become commonplace and widely accepted. Just because it’s the “norm” does not mean it’s legal.
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If I’m paid a salary, is my employer still required to pay me overtime?
Quite possibly. Please don’t assume that you’re not entitled to overtime simply because you’re a salaried employee. This is one of the most common misconceptions in all of employment law. Frankly, many employers misunderstand this and convince their employees that they’re not entitled to overtime simply because they’re paid a salary. Whether salaried employees are entitled to overtime depends entirely on their job duties.
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If I’m paid an hourly rate, can my employer refuse to pay me overtime?
No. Almost all employees paid an hourly rate must be paid overtime.
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If I am paid on a commission and/or draw basis, am I also entitled to overtime?
Yes – unless you’re a sales employee who doesn’t regularly report to your employer’s office. This is true even if your commissions and/or draws meet or exceed the amount(s) you would receive as overtime compensation. In other words, your employer cannot use your commission and/or draw payments to cover your overtime wages.
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Will I face adverse treatment at work if I file a claim?
While we can’t guarantee that your employer won’t retaliate against you, the laws provide strict protections for employees exercising their rights. We’ll develop a strategy tailored to your individual needs, including minimizing the risk of retaliation. And, if you are retaliated against, we’ll help you vigorously pursue your rights.
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Do I need to worry about my reputation with future employers?
While we can’t guarantee absolute anonymity, your privacy and reputation are of utmost importance. We’ll develop a litigation strategy tailored to your individual needs.
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Have you helped others in similar situations?
Regan Strom is committed to protecting employees and consumers against big corporations. We focus on getting results and our lawyers have successfully recovered tens of millions of dollars on behalf of our clients. We look forward to helping you, too.