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Unpaid Wages / Overtime in hospitality: What Are My Options?

I publish illustrative scenarios prepared by my practice. All participants and conversations are fictional. The fictional posts are not posts by real users, accounts of client experiences, or reports of actual results.

Illustrative scenario prepared by my practice.

For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Hypothetical question

EDIT: added more context below. I'm dealing with a situation and need some guidance.

DOGE layoff with inadequate severance. I've been dealing with this for about 16 months now and the situation isn't improving.

I have worked at this company for 12 years. My position is exempt and I do have a written employment agreement beyond the standard offer letter.

What are the risks if I pursue this? What's the likely timeline?

Illustrative response

Check if your state has a "one-party consent" rule for recording conversations. If so, start documenting everything in writing — follow up verbal conversations with a summary email saying "per our conversation today..."

Illustrative response

Thanks for sharing. Dealing with something similar myself.

Illustrative response

In my experience, most employers settle once they realize you're serious about pursuing this.

Illustrative response

Following - dealing with a similar situation right now.

Unpaid Wages / Overtime in hospitality: What Are My Options?

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