When employers violate workers’ rights, they rarely harm just one person. Many employees face the same illegal workplace practices, whether unpaid wages, discrimination, or a toxic work environment. Class and collective action lawsuits allow employees to stand together and hold employers accountable. 

At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we help employees fight back, securing fair compensation and justice through these powerful legal tools. If you suspect your employer has violated your rights and coworkers are in a similar situation, we want to hear from you. Contact our office today to discuss your case with a seasoned class action attorney.

Class Actions vs. Collective Actions: What’s the Difference?

Both class and collective actions allow a group of employees to sue their employer, but there are key differences.

  • Class Actions: Employees are automatically included in the case unless they opt-out. Courts must certify the class before the lawsuit moves forward.
  • Collective Actions: Employees must “opt in” to participate: fill out a form that gets filed with the court. These cases typically arise in wage and hour disputes under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Each type of lawsuit has strategic advantages, and our firm takes the best approach based on the specifics of your case.

Common Workplace Violations in Class & Collective Actions

At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we handle a wide range of employment disputes that impact multiple workers. Some of the most common issues include:

Wage and Hour Violations

Employers frequently violate wage laws by:

  • Failing to pay overtime wages.
  • Misclassifying employees as independent contractors.
  • Making unlawful paycheck deductions.

A collective action allows employees to recover unpaid wages and hold employers accountable for illegal pay practices.

Employment Discrimination

Workplace discrimination can take many forms, including:

  • Racial or gender bias in promotions and hiring.
  • Unequal pay for equal work.
  • Policies that disproportionately impact certain groups.

If discrimination affects a large number of employees, a class action may be the best way to seek justice.

Hostile Work Environments & Harassment

A toxic workplace culture affects everyone. Employees may face:

  • Repeated harassment from managers or coworkers.
  • Retaliation for reporting misconduct.
  • Company-wide policies that encourage or ignore unlawful behavior.

A class action lawsuit can force employers to make systemic changes while providing compensation to affected employees.

Why File a Class or Collective Action Lawsuit?

Standing up to an employer can feel overwhelming, but taking legal action as a group has several advantages:

  • Strength in Numbers: A group lawsuit puts more pressure on employers to settle or change their policies.
  • Efficiency: Instead of multiple lawsuits, one case can address everyone’s claims simultaneously.
  • Cost-Effective: Plaintiffs share legal fees, making it easier to pursue justice.
  • Legal Consistency: A single ruling applies to all affected employees, ensuring fair outcomes.
  • Workplace Change: Holding employers accountable can lead to policy improvements that benefit all workers.
  • Helping Others. Not only will you be fighting for yourself, you will be fighting for your current or former coworkers who were also harmed..

The Legal Process: What to Expect

Filing a class or collective action follows a structured legal process:

  1. Case Evaluation – Our attorneys assess the claims and determine the best legal strategy.
  2. Filing the Lawsuit – We initiate legal action against the employer.
  3. Class Certification or Opt-In Period – The court certifies a class action or allows employees to opt into a collective action.
  4. Discovery & Evidence Gathering – Both sides present evidence and arguments.
  5. Settlement or Trial – Many cases settle, but we are always prepared to go to court if needed.

Lipsky Lowe guides employees through the process, protecting their rights ar every step.

How Lipsky Lowe LLP Can Help

At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we believe that every worker deserves a fair and just workplace. Our team is dedicated to helping employees challenge unlawful practices through class and collective actions, ensuring that those affected by wage theft, discrimination, or harassment have the legal support they need. 

Knowing that coming forward can be intimidating, we work closely with our clients, providing clear guidance and aggressive representation while keeping them informed at every stage of the process.

Our firm has successfully handled complex employment cases, securing significant settlements and holding employers accountable for their actions. We take a strategic and compassionate approach, balancing strong legal advocacy with a commitment to your well-being. If you believe your workplace rights have been violated, trust us to fight for you and the justice you deserve.

Representing Employees in Class and Collective Actions

If you and your coworkers have experienced wage violations, discrimination, or other unlawful workplace practices, don’t wait. You may have a limited time to act. Contact Lipsky Lowe LLP today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.