Protecting California Workers from Wage and Hour Violations: Understanding Your Rights

At Gruzen Moussly Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of California workers and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their labor. Despite strong legal protections, wage and hour violations continue to be a significant issue in workplaces across the state. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for employees who have experienced these violations and helping them recover the compensation they rightfully deserve.

California labor laws provide some of the most comprehensive protections for workers in the United States. These laws cover various aspects of employment, including minimum wage requirements, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and proper employee classification. The California Labor Code and Industrial Welfare Commission (IWC) Wage Orders set forth specific rules that employers must follow to ensure fair treatment of their employees.

One common type of wage violation is the failure to pay minimum wage. As of 2024, the minimum wage in California is $16.00 per hour for all employers, regardless of size. Some cities and counties in California have even higher minimum wage rates, and employers must comply with the highest applicable rate. Another frequent violation is the failure to pay overtime. In California, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay of 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked beyond 8 in a day or 40 in a week, and double time for hours worked beyond 12 in a day or 8 on the seventh consecutive day of work in a workweek.

Meal and rest break violations are also prevalent. California law requires employers to provide non-exempt employees with a 30-minute unpaid meal break for shifts over 5 hours, and a second meal break for shifts over 10 hours. Additionally, employees are entitled to a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked. Employers who fail to provide these breaks or who discourage employees from taking them are in violation of the law.

Misclassification of employees as independent contractors is another serious issue. By misclassifying workers, employers attempt to avoid providing benefits and protections that employees are entitled to, such as minimum wage, overtime pay, and workers’ compensation. California has adopted the “ABC test” to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor, making it more difficult for employers to misclassify workers.

If you believe you have been a victim of wage and hour violations, it’s important to take action. Keep detailed records of your hours worked, wages received, and any communications with your employer regarding these issues. You have the right to file a wage claim with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office or pursue legal action against your employer.

At Gruzen Moussly Law, our experienced employment attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex landscape of wage and hour laws. We can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the process of recovering your unpaid wages. Whether through negotiation, administrative claims, or litigation, we are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you’ve earned.

Don’t let wage theft compromise your financial security. If you’ve experienced wage and hour violations in your workplace, contact Gruzen Moussly Law today. Together, we can hold employers accountable and work towards fair treatment for all California workers.