How Can You Ensure Your Employer Is Complying with Labor Laws?
Nov. 1, 2025
Whether you work in a small business or a large corporation, your employer has legal obligations to follow state and federal labor laws. These laws exist to protect workers’ rights, promise fair pay, and promote safe working conditions.
Unfortunately, not every employer follows the rules. Employees should be aware of their rights and make sure their employers comply with the law.
At Duwel Law, we’ve represented employees facing wage issues, overtime violations, and other workplace concerns. As experienced employment law attorneys, we believe that understanding these laws is key to achieving compliance. Located in Dayton, Ohio, our firm serves clients throughout Montgomery County, Miami County, Greene County, Darke County, and Warren County. Our experienced employment law attorneys have seen firsthand how empowering workers with knowledge leads to stronger, fairer workplaces. Contact us to take your first steps forward.
Key Ohio Labor Laws
Ohio labor laws address various employment matters, including minimum wage, overtime, workplace safety, and family leave, often complementing federal laws like the FLSA and FMLA.
Some of the most important labor protections in Ohio include:
Minimum wage: Ohio sets its own minimum wage, which is updated annually and may exceed the federal rate.
Overtime pay: Eligible employees must receive overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek.
Meal and rest breaks: While Ohio does not require breaks for adults, federal rules and company policies may apply.
Workplace safety: Employers must provide a safe work environment free from recognized hazards.
Anti-discrimination laws: Employees are protected from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, disability, and other protected characteristics.
Knowing these rules helps employees recognize potential violations early.
Why Compliance Matters
Labor law compliance isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits. It’s about treating employees fairly, fostering trust, and maintaining a productive work environment. When employers ignore legal requirements, they risk wage claims, government investigations, and damage to their reputation.
As employment law attorneys, we’ve seen how noncompliance can lead to serious financial consequences for businesses. We’ve also seen the toll it takes on employees, who may face lost income, unsafe conditions, or unfair treatment. Compliance is beneficial for everyone involved.
Check Your Pay and Hours
One of the most common labor law violations involves wages and overtime. Employees should regularly review their pay stubs to make sure they’re receiving the correct amount and that their hours are accurately recorded.
Common wage issues include:
Unpaid overtime: Employers may improperly classify workers as exempt or fail to pay for overtime hours.
Off-the-clock work: Some employers expect employees to work before or after shifts without pay.
Incorrect hourly rates: Mistakes or intentional underpayment can result in lost wages over time.
Improper deductions: Unlawful deductions can reduce take-home pay.
If you notice discrepancies, bring them to your employer’s attention in writing. Keeping detailed records of hours worked can make it easier to resolve issues or support legal action if necessary.
Know Your Classification
Employee classification plays a significant role in determining your rights under labor laws. Employers sometimes misclassify employees as independent contractors to avoid paying overtime, providing benefits, or withholding taxes.
Ohio uses specific tests to determine whether a worker is truly an independent contractor. Factors include the degree of control the employer has, how the worker is paid, and whether the worker provides services to other businesses.
We often advise employees to carefully review their job duties and payment arrangements. If the classification doesn’t match reality, it may be worth seeking legal guidance.
Know Your Rights Regarding Workplace Safety
Every employee has the right to a safe workplace. Employers must comply with state and federal safety regulations, provide proper training, and address hazards promptly.
Employees should report unsafe conditions to their supervisors or safety officers. If the problem isn’t resolved, they can contact the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.
We’ve represented clients who faced retaliation after raising safety concerns. It’s important to know that retaliation for reporting safety violations is illegal. Workers have legal protections if their employer punishes them for speaking up.
Review Leave and Benefits Policies
Leave and benefits are another area where employers must comply with labor laws. Employees may be entitled to leave under federal or state law for reasons such as family medical issues, military service, or jury duty.
Understanding your employer’s policies and the law helps make sure that you receive the benefits you may be entitled to. Employers who deny legitimate leave requests or improperly terminate employees for taking leave may face legal consequences.
Our employment law attorneys, Kyle and David Duwel, have handled cases in which misunderstandings or misapplications of leave laws led to wrongful terminations. Proactive communication and documentation are key to protecting your rights.
Watch for Discrimination and Retaliation
Employment discrimination remains a serious issue. Ohio and federal laws prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, national origin, and other protected characteristics. Examples of discriminatory behavior include:
Unequal treatment: Paying different wages for the same work or denying promotions for discriminatory reasons.
Hostile work environments: Allowing harassment to persist unchecked.
Retaliation: Punishing employees for reporting discrimination or participating in investigations.
Hiring or firing bias: Making employment decisions based on protected traits.
If you suspect discrimination, document incidents carefully and follow internal complaint procedures. Seeking legal advice early can help preserve your rights.
Keep Detailed Records
Accurate documentation is one of the most powerful tools employees have for achieving compliance. Keep copies of pay stubs, schedules, employment contracts, and any correspondence related to workplace concerns.
Written records strengthen your position if you need to file a complaint or pursue legal action. They also provide clarity in conversations with employers about potential issues. Thorough documentation can make the difference between a successful claim and a missed opportunity.
Utilize Government Resources
Several state and federal agencies oversee labor law compliance. In Ohio, employees can turn to:
The Ohio Department of Commerce: Oversees wage and hour laws.
The Ohio Civil Rights Commission: Handles discrimination claims.
The U.S. Department of Labor: Enforces federal wage and safety laws.
OSHA: Investigates workplace safety complaints.
These agencies can investigate violations, mediate disputes, and enforce penalties against noncompliant employers. Knowing which agency to contact can speed up resolution.
When to Seek Legal Assistance
While many labor law issues can be resolved internally or through government agencies, some require legal intervention. Detailed wage claims, widespread discrimination, or retaliatory firings often benefit from experienced legal representation.
As employment law attorneys, we help employees understand their rights, evaluate their options, and pursue appropriate remedies. We strive to hold employers accountable and protect workers from unlawful practices.
Taking Action Early Matters
Labor law violations often have strict deadlines for filing complaints or lawsuits. Acting quickly can preserve evidence and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
We encourage employees to speak up when they see potential violations. Whether it’s unpaid wages, unsafe conditions, or discriminatory treatment, addressing problems early prevents them from escalating further.
Contact Our Firm Today
At Duwel Law, we help workers make sure their employers comply with labor laws. As dedicated employment law attorneys, we believe that knowledge and timely action are essential for protecting workers’ rights. Our firm provides guidance and support to employees facing workplace challenges in Dayton, Ohio, and across Montgomery County, Miami County, Greene County, Darke County, and Warren County. Contact us today to learn more about your options.