If I have worked for a security firm for 17 years but have had no cost of living raise in those years, is that legal?
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If I have worked for a security firm for 17 years but have had no cost of living raise in those years, is that legal?
Asked on February 25, 2015 under Employment Labor Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
It is regretable, and arguably immoral, and certainly unfair, but it is not illegal. There is no law requiring employers to *ever* give raises, cost of living or otherwise, unless there is a written employment contract (including a union or collective bargaining agreement) requiring raises. Otherwise, not only could you employer not give you raises, they could even reduce your pay if they wanted. That is part of what "employment at will" means--in the U.S., an employer may not only fire at will, but may change the terms and conditions, including pay, of employment at will.
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