Labor Lawyer in New York City, NY

A labor lawyer in New York City represents workers and unions in disputes involving wages, working conditions, collective bargaining, and unfair labor practices. An experienced New York City labor attorney handles cases before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), negotiates union contracts, fights wage theft, and challenges labor law violations by employers.

Wage and hour violations (FLSA claims)
Unpaid overtime and minimum wage claims
Union organizing and representation
Collective bargaining agreement disputes
Unfair labor practice charges (NLRB)
Worker misclassification (employee vs. contractor)
Workplace safety violations (OSHA)

How Much Does a Labor Lawyer Cost in New York City?

Labor lawyers typically charge hourly rates of $200–$500/hr for union and collective bargaining matters. Wage and hour cases are often handled on contingency (33–40%). Under federal law, prevailing employees may recover attorney fees from the employer.

Typical fee structure: Hourly ($200–$500/hr) or contingency for wage claims

Average settlement/outcome: $5,000 – $250,000+

⚠️ Filing Deadlines Apply: NLRB unfair labor practice charges must be filed within 6 months. Wage claims under the FLSA have a 2–3 year statute of limitations. In New York, state wage claims may have different deadlines. Contact a labor attorney promptly.

New York City Area Courts — Labor Lawyer Cases

Cases in New York City are typically heard in the following courts. Your attorney will advise on the correct venue for your case.

📍 New York Supreme Court

60 Centre St, New York, NY 10007 · 📞 (646) 386-3600 · Mon–Fri 9am–5pm

📍 US District Court — SDNY

500 Pearl St, New York, NY 10007 · 📞 (212) 805-0136 · Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm

Frequently Asked Questions — Labor Lawyer in New York City

❓ How much does a labor lawyer cost?

Hourly: $200–$500/hr for union matters. Wage and hour cases: often contingency (33–40%). Prevailing employees may recover attorney fees from the employer.

❓ What is an unfair labor practice?

Actions by employers or unions that violate the National Labor Relations Act — such as interfering with union organizing, retaliating against union activity, or refusing to bargain in good faith.

❓ Can my employer fire me for union activity?

No — firing or retaliating against employees for protected union activity is an unfair labor practice. File a charge with the NLRB within 6 months.

❓ How do I recover unpaid wages?

File a complaint with the Department of Labor or sue under the FLSA. You may recover back pay, liquidated damages (double back pay), and attorney fees.

❓ Am I an employee or independent contractor?

Misclassification is common. Courts look at factors like control over work, tools provided, schedule flexibility, and economic dependence. Misclassified workers can recover wages and benefits.

❓ What is collective bargaining?

The process of negotiating employment terms — wages, hours, benefits, and working conditions — between an employer and a union. A labor attorney advises on strategy and rights.

Serving All New York City Areas

We connect clients throughout New York City with top-rated labor lawyers, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island, Harlem, and surrounding communities.

Serving ZIP codes: 10001 · 10002 · 10003 · 10004 · 10007 · 10014 · 10019 · 10036 · 11201 · 11215 · 11355 · 10451

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens The Bronx Staten Island Harlem Midtown Lower East Side

Labor Lawyers in New York City, NY

Top Labor Lawyers Near New York City, NY

What Does a Labor Lawyer in New York City Do?