Equal Pay Lawyers in New Jersey

Equal Work Deserves Equal Pay — No Exceptions

If you're doing the same job as someone else and getting paid less — especially because of your gender, race, or another protected trait — it's a violation of state and federal law.

Brandon J. Broderick New Jersey Equal Pay Act attorneys help employees uncover wage disparities and take action to correct them. If you've discovered a pay gap between you and a colleague or suspect long-term underpayment, we're here to help you understand your rights and pursue what you're owed.

What Counts as an Equal Pay Act Violation in New Jersey?

The Equal Pay Act (EPA) — and the New Jersey Equal Pay Act, one of the strongest in the country — make it illegal for employers to pay employees differently based on protected characteristics, including:

• Gender or gender identity
• Race or ethnicity
• Age
• Disability
• Religion
• National origin
• Sexual orientation

To violate the law, the employer must pay someone less for "substantially similar work" — meaning work that requires similar skill, effort, and responsibility — even if the job titles are different.

Common Examples of Equal Pay Violations

• Being paid less than male coworkers for the same responsibilities
• Discovering bonuses, raises, or promotions were given unequally
• Not receiving hazard pay or shift premiums offered to others in the same role
• A pattern of underpayment affecting employees of a particular gender, race, or age
• Being told "that's just how it is" when questioning a pay discrepancy
• Facing retaliation for asking about salaries or advocating for equal pay

If you've ever felt like you're doing the same — or more — for less, you may not be imagining it. And you may have legal grounds to act.

What to Do If You Suspect an Equal Pay Act Violation

1. Keep Records

Document your pay history, responsibilities, performance reviews, and any conversations you've had about compensation. If possible, gather information about coworkers in similar roles.

2. Understand "Substantially Similar Work"

You don't need to have the same job title to be protected. What matters is the work being done, not what it's called. Our team can help evaluate the details.

3. Talk to a New Jersey Equal Pay Attorney

We'll help you compare roles, assess pay gaps, and determine whether your employer violated the law. Even if you're unsure what's happening, we can help bring it into focus.

How Our New Jersey Equal Pay Lawyers Can Help

Unequal pay isn't always obvious — but when it is, you deserve someone who will take it seriously. Our lawyers will help you understand your rights, calculate what you may be owed, and fight for fair compensation.

You can expect:

• A detailed, confidential review of your situation
• Support comparing your role with others in your workplace
• A clear explanation of your legal options
• A legal team committed to communication, clarity, and results

What You May Be Entitled To

If your employer violated the Equal Pay Act, you may be entitled to:

• Back pay to cover wage differences
• Double damages under New Jersey law
• Compensation for emotional distress
• Attorney's fees and costs
• Policy changes or transparency requirements in the workplace

We'll walk you through what's possible — and fight to make it happen.

Frequently Asked Questions: Equal Pay Act in New Jersey

How do I know if I have an Equal Pay Act claim?

If you're being paid less than coworkers doing substantially similar work — and you suspect the difference is tied to gender, race, or another protected trait — you may have a valid claim.

What's the difference between federal and NJ Equal Pay laws?

The federal EPA focuses on gender, while New Jersey's Equal Pay Act covers all protected characteristics, not just gender. It also allows for triple the damages in some cases.

What does "substantially similar work" mean?

It refers to roles that require similar levels of skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions — not necessarily identical titles or tasks.

Can I be fired for asking about pay?

No. Retaliation for discussing wages or filing an Equal Pay complaint is illegal. If that happened to you, you may have a second legal claim.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Under NJ law, you generally have 6 years to file a claim for unequal pay — but the sooner you act, the easier it is to build a strong case.

If You're Doing the Same Work, You Deserve the Same Pay

Equal effort deserves equal compensation. If your employer isn't playing fair, we're here to help you push back — with support and a plan that puts you first.