What Should I Do If My Employer Reduces My Hours Unfairly?

Facing a sudden, unfair reduction in your work hours can significantly impact your ability to make ends meet. You rely on your income, and having those hours cut down can cause stress and uncertainty about your financial future. If you suspect your employer is unfairly cutting your time, you’re likely wondering what rights you have and what steps you can take to fight back. Before making any rash decisions, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Gloucester County Wage and Hour Lawyer. 

Can an Employer Reduce Your Hours? 

New Jersey is an at-will employment state, meaning an employer can modify schedules for valid business purposes. However, the reduction in your hourly wages cannot violate state or federal employment laws. 

The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) makes it illegal for an employer to reduce an employee’s hours based on a protected characteristic, such as their race, gender, age, or disability. Additionally, hour cuts are prohbied if they breach an existing employment contract or agreement that guarantees a certain number of hours. Understanding these potential violations is key to determining if an employee’s action is unlawful. 

Is This Workplace Discrimination? 

An unlawful hour reduction may be based on discrimination. The NJLAD safeguards individuals from adverse employment actions, including reducing hours due to their protected status, which includes a wide array of traits like national origin, religion, and sexual orientation. Legal remedies are available for employees who can prove discrimination caused an unlawful cut in their work hours. 

Is This Retaliation? 

Retaliation presents another common basis for an illegal hour reduction, occurring when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in a legally shielded activity. Protected activities may include reporting workplace discrimination or harassment, filing a complaint with a government agency, or requesting proper wages and overtime. An employee is also safeguarded from retaliation for taking legally mandated time off or for reporting workplace safety issues. If a reduction in hours is related to an employee’s protection practices, it may be deemed unlawful retaliation. 

What Steps Should I Take If I Suspect My Employer Reduced My Hours Unfairly?

In the unfortunate event that your hours are cut unfairly, prompt action is crucial to protect your rights. You should document everything, maintain a thorough record of all modifications to your work schedule, and any reduction in hours you experience. You must retain copies of all pertinent correspondence, such as emails, text messages, and official notices. Furthermore, you must maintain records of your pay stubs and the actual hours you dedicated to your job.

From here, you should seek a formal explanation from your supervisor. Once you receive their response, ensure you document the reason behind the change in your working conditions. Next, you should consider filing an internal complaint in writing. 

If internal efforts are unsuccessful, you should consider filing a legal complaint. If you believe your rights have been violated, it’s advisable to seek guidance from an attorney at The Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. Our legal team is prepared to help you respond effectively and protect your employment rights. Connect with us today to schedule a consultation.