Wage and Hour Attorney in Smith County

Facing Unfair Wages or Unpaid Overtime? Call (903) 412-3788.

If your paycheck does not reflect the hours you have worked or you feel unsure about receiving unpaid overtime, you are not alone. Many employees in Smith County face similar uncertainty and frustration, but fear of retaliation or losing a job often keeps workers from speaking up. As a wage and hour attorney, I am here to help you claim what you are owed, safely and confidentially.

At Hommel Law Firm, I understand the hesitation and concern surrounding wage and hour claims. Whether you experienced unpaid wages, off-the-clock work, or questionable pay practices, you deserve clear answers and effective support. My practice is dedicated to helping employees throughout Smith County regain control and protect their rights.

With board certification in Labor and Employment Law, and as one of only two firms in Texas with three related board certifications, I focus entirely on representing employees. You will not pay any upfront fees for most cases, and my goal is to make trusted, experienced legal support accessible to every worker in our community.

Take the first step toward resolving your case with a skilled wages lawyer in Smith County. Reach out or call (903) 412-3788 now to set up your consultation.

Why Trust the Hommel Law Firm to Protect Your Rights?

It is important to have a legal advocate who truly understands the complexities of wage and hour law. For over 35 years, I have committed my practice to employment law, always on the side of employees. You will not find my firm representing employers. I believe workers deserve a dedicated voice for fairness and accountability in Smith County.

My board certification in Labor and Employment Law signifies that I have deep, continually updated knowledge of Texas and federal laws impacting wage and hour cases. This helps ensure your claim benefits from recent legal developments and the most effective strategies, here in Smith County and throughout our region.

Hommel Law Firm handles most wage and hour claims on a contingent fee basis, so you typically do not owe any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained for you. This allows you to pursue justice with confidence and no financial risk. I also bring direct experience managing cases before Smith County District Court and working with regional employers, which gives you a practical advantage at every stage.

Common Wage & Hour Violations in Smith County Workplaces

Wage and hour law violations occur in a wide range of industries across Smith County—sometimes blatantly, sometimes subtly. These issues are especially common in healthcare, retail, hospitality, construction, and manufacturing but can affect any employee in our local economy.

Common examples of wage and hour violations include:

• Not paying overtime for work performed beyond 40 hours per week
• Failure to pay for all required work, including preparation or cleanup outside regular shifts
• Misclassifying employees as exempt or labeling them as independent contractors
• Unlawful deductions from pay or refusals to provide final paychecks after termination
• Requiring employees to clock out and then continue working

Both Texas and federal law protect you from these types of violations, and Smith County District Court has jurisdiction to handle many wage disputes. If you notice any of these signs or have concerns, it is important to have someone review your situation and advise you on the best possible approach for your case.

How I Help Smith County Workers Recover Unpaid Wages

Taking on a wage or hour claim might seem overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. I am dedicated to guiding employees in Smith County through each step, offering clear explanations, regular updates, and actionable solutions.

My Process for Wage & Hour Claims

This is how I approach your wage claim from start to finish:

• Private Consultation: Our process begins with a confidential, no-charge consultation where you share your work experience and we review whether your employer’s actions may have violated wage laws.
• Document Review: I assist you in gathering and analyzing pay stubs, schedules, and communication to build a strong foundation for your claim.
• Negotiation: In many cases, I will first seek a prompt resolution directly with your employer, often avoiding drawn-out court proceedings in Smith County District Court when possible.
• Filing Legal Action: If negotiation does not resolve your claim, I can file a complaint in the appropriate Smith County court or with the Texas Workforce Commission or U.S. Department of Labor, depending on the nature of the violation.
• Ongoing Support: You receive timely updates and full transparency during every stage, so you always know what to expect and how your case is progressing.

My goal is to make sure you feel supported and empowered throughout, always prioritizing your needs and addressing the unique wage and hour climate here in Smith County.

What To Do If You Think Your Employer Broke Wage Laws

If you worry your employer is not paying you correctly or is requiring off-the-clock work, early action helps strengthen your case. It is essential to know your rights and take key steps to protect yourself while minimizing any risk at your current job.

To protect yourself, start with these steps:

• Document hours worked, pay received, breaks, and any relevant communications. Written notes, calendar entries, or photos of schedules can be helpful.
• Safeguard any wage-related emails, pay stubs, or text messages from your employer about your hours or wages.
• Contact Hommel Law Firm for a free and confidential review before you raise concerns with your employer. I can guide you based on your unique situation.
• Do not sign anything from your employer regarding pay disputes or waiving rights without legal review first.
• Reach out as soon as you can, because deadlines apply to wage and hour claims in Texas. Starting early improves your chances for a favorable outcome.

Remember, your consultation is private and at no cost. My priority is making sure you feel safe, supported, and fully informed about your options from the first conversation.

Contact (903) 412-3788 to request your free consultation with a qualified wage and hour lawyer in Smith County and let me help you protect your rights today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my employer broke wage laws in Smith County?

The best way to find out is to have a knowledgeable lawyer review your case details. Red flags include unpaid overtime, requests for off-the-clock work, late paychecks, missing wages, or unusual paycheck deductions. I can review your situation confidentially and explain your options under Texas and federal law. Even if you are unsure, a no-cost consultation clarifies whether you may have a claim.

Will I risk losing my job if I file a claim about unpaid wages?

Both Texas and federal law make it illegal for an employer to retaliate against workers who file a wage claim. While it is understandable to worry, protections exist to deter and penalize employers who retaliate. I take confidentiality seriously and share options to protect you from workplace retaliation, drawing on real experience assisting Smith County employees in similar situations.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to get help with my wage claim?

No, there are no upfront attorney's fees for most wage cases with Hommel Law Firm. You only pay for legal services if I secure a financial recovery for your case. This approach makes legal support available regardless of your income or current situation.

What types of wage and hour cases do you handle in Smith County?

I handle wage and hour violations including unpaid overtime, minimum wage claims, improper paycheck deductions, work misclassification, and demands for off-the-clock work. Every case receives personal, focused attention, and if you have questions about whether your situation qualifies, a consultation can provide clarity without obligation.

How long does a wage and hour claim usually take in Smith County?

Timelines depend on case specifics, such as the complexity of issues, available documentation, and whether a resolution can be reached outside of court. Some claims are settled in weeks, but others may require court filings and take longer. I explain what to expect based on local courts and keep you informed from start to finish.

What should I bring to a consultation with a wage and hour attorney?

Bring anything related to your employment and pay: time records, pay stubs, work schedules, written notes, or communication from your employer. These records help me review your case fully and give you accurate advice. If you need help getting records, I can guide you on what matters most for your specific case in Smith County.

For dedicated legal assistance, connect with our qualified wages attorney in Smith County. Contact (903) 412-3788 to arrange your consultation right away.