Non-Payment of Wages – Criminal Liability

In this economic downturn, we are increasingly being consulted by individuals who complain that their employer has not paid them the wages that they are due, causing a considerable financial burden on them and their families.

Statutory protection is given in the Employment Ordinance which imposes criminal penalties on employers who fail to promptly pay wages and other monies that are due to their employees or former employees.  

However, are these criminal penalties effective?