Skip to main content
Legal news

Employer paying less than minimum wage is prosecuted

Jonathan Winston Jonathan Winston
1 min read

An optician has been fined over £3,000 after paying staff up to 40% less than they were entitled to under the minimum wage. Had staff realised they could have seeked employment legal advice and forced the issue earlier.

Benjamin Gains, who owns two optician premises in Liverpool pleaded guilty to failing to pay four workers the National Minimum Wage (NMW). He tried to hide this by falsifying employee information and not giving the appropriate documents to HM Revenue & Customs. He offered to pay the staff the money he owned them if HMRC dropped its case against him.

Mike O’Grady of HMRC Criminal Investigations said: “This sentencing sends a clear message to employers large or small, that HMRC will actively pursue those whom we suspect of flouting NMW laws. If employers prevent HMRC officers from checking staff records, attempt to alter or falsify pay records and related documents and refuse to comply with the law they could receive a fine and a criminal record.”

More Winston Solicitors news

Client feedback

Winstons are brilliant, very responsive to messages, professional and patient. Fantastic customer service- face to face and email/telephone. Would 100% recommend!
Lucy
I recently contracted Winston Solicitors to support me in obtaining a grant of probate following the death of a parent. I worked closely with Emily and found her to be supportive, have great communication and be able to navigate the IHT and probate processes very efficiently.
John
Absolutely exceptional service from start to finish. I will definitely be recommending you to others. Michelle was fantastic and eased me through the whole process. I had so many questions as a first time buyer, Michelle answered them all and responded quickly every time. Very happy - August 2025
Kimberley W, Derbyshire
We are greatful for Sam's and her team work. We don't believe buying or selling a house could be made any easier. Thank you! - August 2025
Pawel S, Wakefield
Was recommended by my Financial Advisor and was pleasantly surprised everything was dealt with efficiently and everyone I spoke to were kind courteous and knowledgeable I would have no hesitation in using their services again. - August 2025
J Gilbertson, Pontefract
When Mum needed the system most that she had been paying into all her life she was failed by countless people and departments, assessments not completed, lost files, appointments not kept, delay after delay and on. I had a gut feeling that procedures weren't being followed and began my quest for the truth in her memory. I found James at 'Winston Solicitors' who helped us take on the system and prove that Mum was indeed entitled to CHC Funding. Throughout the case he was relentless in his pursuit to seek out the truth and hold those accountable who failed Mum. He gave us regular updates and discussed every step with us along the way, I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone who has found themselves in this dreadful position in traumatic times with their loved ones. - August 2025
A Ellis, Manchester
Sam and the team have been great in the sale and purchase of my house. Consistent communication and always on hand to answer any questions.
Ms S
We were really happy with Sidraa, she is polite, calm and professional and would definitely recommend her and Winston’s.
Chris
Contact Jonathan