UNPAID WAGES
Explained by a Maryland wage theft lawyer
When your employer withholds pay you’ve rightfully earned, you need a skilled Maryland unpaid wages lawyer to enforce your rights.
At Fortis Employment Law, we help employees across Baltimore, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and beyond recover unpaid overtime, minimum wages, misclassification damages, and more under both federal and Maryland law.
3
years
statute of limitations
3-6
months
average case duration
3x
multiplier
for damages
UNDERSTANDING YOUR WAGE AND HOUR PROTECTIONS
Severe Penalties for Employers Who Withhold Wages
Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), most non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime at one-and-a-half times their regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, as well as a federal minimum wage.
But Maryland’s Wage Payment & Collection Law (MWPCL) goes further: it guarantees prompt payment of all wages, including commissions, tips, and bonuses, and allows for liquidated damages of up to triple your unpaid earnings.
When you combine FLSA claims with the MWPCL, you put real pressure on employers to comply—or pay dearly.
COMMON UNPAID WAGE CLAIMS
We've got a track record of obtaining triple damages under the MWPCL.
Time is of the essence in wage claims. Under the FLSA, you generally have two years to file a claim—or three years for willful violations. Maryland’s MWPCL gives you three years from the date the wages were due. Missing these deadlines can bar your right to recover. At Fortis Employment Law, we track every clock, calendar, and cutoff so your claim stays alive.
OVERTIME VIOLATIONS
It’s common for Maryland employers to miscalculate overtime or classify workers as salaried to avoid premium pay.
Whether you’re clocking extra hours on the job or working through lunch breaks, Fortis Employment Law will analyze your time records, pinpoint miscalculations, and demand full overtime compensation under both FLSA and Maryland law.
MINIMUM WAGE SHORTFALLS
Maryland’s minimum wage often exceeds the federal floor. If you’ve been paid below the state’s minimum—whether due to rounding errors, improper tip credits, or simple oversight—we hold employers accountable for every cent you’re owed, plus the potential for triple damages under the MWPCL.
MISCLASSIFICATION AND INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS
Many employers misclassify employees as independent contractors to dodge wage-and-hour rules. Misclassification can cost you thousands in unpaid overtime, benefits, and tax protections. We’ll evaluate your role, job duties, and company control factors to reclassify you correctly and recover all lost wages.
TESTIMONIALS*
More than just an employment lawyer—your steadfast advocate.
Joseph at Fortis Employment Law was extremely knowledgeable and understanding.
Lisa B.
Discrimination
Knowledgeable, communicative, trustworthy, and genuinely client-focused. I highly recommend Joseph Gibson at Fortis.
Mathew M.
Wrongful Termination
Professional and very helpful. Highly recommended!
Elena B.
Hostile Work Environment
1. Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation
Ready to talk? You’ll have a no-obligation, no-pressure 15-minute chat with Joseph Gibson, founder of Fortis Employment Law. Just share what happened at work, and we'll let you know right away whether you have a viable case—completely free, with no strings attached.
2. Receive a Complimentary In-Depth Case Review
If it sounds like you have a viable claim, we’ll move on to a free, in-depth case review. We'll analyze your documents, build a clear timeline of events, and help you understand potential damages. By the end, you’ll know exactly what options you have—and what to expect—before deciding whether to move forward.
3. Take the Next Step with Confidence
Whether you’re ready to file a claim or simply want more information, you’ll never feel pressured. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and a clear path forward.