How can I file a complaint against an employer in Massachusetts after he gave his illegal immigrant employee a bounced check?

Attorney answers (3)

1. Licensed in MA

   

   Christopher Fein

   Braintree Business Attorney

   Contributor Level 11

   1

   Lawyer agrees

   Answered August 29, 2011 12:04. Massachusetts law provides that employers must pay wages to employees or face mandatory triple damages, plus attorney's fees and costs. The law does not discriminate on the basis of citizenship. To collect multiple damages you must comply with MGL c. 149 section 148 et seq. A wage complaint must be filed with the Attorney General before any lawusit is filed.
   
   I strongly recommend hiring an attorney.
   
   Good luck.

   The content of this message does not constitute legal advice and is not intended to be relied upon by anyone. It... moreThe content of this message does not constitute legal advice and is not intended to be relied upon by anyone. It is highly recommended that the reader seek the opinion of a qualified attorney in his or her area for consultation and assistance. There are applicable statute of limitations and other considerations that only a qualified attorney can provide guidance on after being fully informed as to all of the circumstance of your particular case. less

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2. Licensed in MA

   

   Henry Lebensbaum

   Andover Criminal Defense Attorney

   Contributor Level 19

   Answered August 29, 2011 15:16. This is tough because there a few employers and others who want the advantage of hiring an undocumented person, and then abuse it by their failure to pay.
   
   You can also file a criminal complaint with the district court.
   
   Does this answer your question?

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   • henry lebensbaum. Esq. 978-749-3606

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3. Licensed in MA

   

   Jonathan Goldfield

   Haverhill Government Attorney

   Contributor Level 5

   Answered September 01, 2011 07:03. The attached brochure from the Mass. Office of the Attorney General identifies multiple rights that wage earners have and actions that can be brought on behalf of themselves and similarly situated employees. For example, the statute forbids the employer from retaliating against one employee for helping a co-worker pursue his or her workplace rights.

   Every situation is different, and there may be other factors that can affect outcomes, so it is important to... moreEvery situation is different, and there may be other factors that can affect outcomes, so it is important to consult with a qualified attorney with this kind of matter. less

   • Mass. Attorney General Workplace Rights Brochure

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