Every employee deserves to be paid fairly for the work they perform—regardless of gender, race, age, or any other protected characteristic. Yet in Atlantic County and across the state, many workers still earn less than their peers for doing the same job. If you suspect that you’re being underpaid compared to coworkers with similar responsibilities, you may be a victim of an equal pay violation, and legal help is available.
What Is an Equal Pay Violation?
An equal pay violation occurs when an employer pays employees unequally for “substantially similar work,” unless the difference is based on factors like seniority, education, or performance. These disparities can exist in base salary, bonuses, stock options, and other forms of compensation.
Examples of Equal Pay Discrimination
- Paying women less than men for the same role
- Offering higher bonuses to younger workers for identical performance
- Compensating employees differently based on race or national origin
- Disguising unequal pay with inflated job titles for certain employees
New Jersey’s Equal Pay Act
The Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act is one of the most employee-friendly laws in the country. Under this law, employees performing “substantially similar” work must be paid equally—regardless of their race, gender, age, or other protected class.
In addition to closing wage gaps, the law also:
- Prohibits retaliation against employees who discuss compensation
- Allows workers to seek up to six years of back pay
- Provides for triple damages (three times the amount of underpayment)
Federal Protections
Employees are also protected under the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. These laws make it illegal to pay employees differently based on gender, race, or other protected characteristics.
How to Know If You’re Being Underpaid
- Compare your job responsibilities, not just your title
- Ask trusted coworkers about their compensation if they’re willing to share
- Review any documented pay scales or HR policies
- Consult an employment attorney for a compensation analysis
Legal Remedies for Equal Pay Violations
- Back pay to make up for underpayment
- Triple damages under New Jersey law
- Recalculation of future pay and benefits
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
- Possible reinstatement or promotion
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys have a proven track record of helping workers in Atlantic County recover what they’re owed. Their experienced legal team understands the intricacies of state and federal equal pay laws and will conduct a thorough investigation to build a strong case on your behalf.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
If you believe you’re earning less than coworkers for the same work, you don’t have to stay silent. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward fair and equal pay.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
