Have you faced wage and hour violations such as unpaid overtime, misclassification, minimum wage infractions, or denied breaks in Orange County? Elite Employment Law protects the rights of employees and is here to help you recover the wages and penalties you are owed.
Our skilled Orange County employment law attorneys are ready to fight for you and explore all available legal options. Contact Elite Employment Law today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
Why Choose Our Orange County Unpaid Wages Attorneys?
Navigating wage and hour disputes can be complex and intimidating for most employees. Without experienced legal guidance, you may be at a disadvantage or risk an unsuccessful claim.
At Elite Employment Law, we believe every Orange County employee deserves strong legal support when facing workplace injustices. Our employment attorneys are committed to pursuing justice for each of our clients.
As a dedicated worker, you deserve fair and timely compensation, and our team at Elite Employment Law can help you navigate the claim filing process and represent your interests throughout.
Our extensive experience in negotiation, litigation, and conflict resolution gives us a distinct advantage both in and out of the courtroom. If you are considering filing a wage and hour dispute in Orange County, contact us today for a free consultation.
Do not allow wage and hour violations to go unchallenged. Let Elite Employment Law help protect your rights and recover the compensation you have earned.
Understanding Wage and Hour Violations in California
As an employee in Orange County, you invest significant time and energy into your job and deserve to be paid fairly for your work. Wage and hour violations occur when an employer fails to compensate their workers correctly.
These violations can take many forms, including failure to pay minimum wage, refusal to pay overtime, misclassification of employees, or forcing employees to work through breaks without compensation.
Minimum Wage Violations
As of 2024, California’s minimum wage is $16.00 per hour for all employers, regardless of size. Some cities in Orange County may have higher minimum wages. It’s illegal for your employer to pay less than the mandated minimum wage.
Unpaid Overtime
California employers must pay overtime at 1.5 times the regular pay rate for work exceeding 8 hours in a day, 40 hours in a week, or for the first 8 hours on the 7th consecutive workday. Double overtime (2 times the regular rate) applies for work beyond 12 hours in a day or 8 hours on the 7th consecutive workday.
Employee Misclassification
Some employers misclassify employees as exempt or independent contractors to avoid paying overtime or providing benefits. Misclassification, whether intentional or not, can lead to significant wage and hour violations.
Meal and Rest Break Violations
California law mandates specific breaks for employees:
- A 10-minute paid rest break for every 4 hours worked
- A 30-minute unpaid meal break for shifts over 5 hours
- A second 30-minute unpaid meal break for shifts over 10 hours
Unpaid Wages and Vacation Time
Employers cannot force employees to work “off the clock” or without pay. Additionally, earned vacation time is considered part of an employee’s compensation and cannot be subject to a “use it or lose it” policy.
Failure to Pay Commissions and Promised Bonuses
In California, commissions are considered earned wages and cannot be withheld. Similarly, failing to pay promised bonuses outlined in an employment contract can constitute a wage violation.
What Types of Recoverable Damages Can You Receive for Wage Theft in Orange County?
If you have experienced wage and hour violations in California, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
- The full amount of unpaid wages owed to you
- Interest on the unpaid wages
- Attorney’s Fees
- Civil Penalties
- Meal and Rest Break Penalties
- Waiting Time Penalties if your final paycheck is late or incomplete
How Elite Employment Law Can Assist with Your Unpaid Wages Dispute
At Elite Employment Law, we are dedicated to leveling the playing field for employees who have been treated unfairly. You have protection against retaliation under federal and California state law, and there are multiple avenues available to recover your unpaid wages and penalties for illegal labor practices.
Our Orange County employment attorneys have extensive experience gained from years of practice in employment litigation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing out-of-pocket to secure the legal representation you deserve.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
You do not have to face a wage and hour claim alone. Call Elite Employment Law today to schedule a free case review with a compassionate and experienced employment lawyer.
We will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and advise you of your legal options. Take the first step toward recovering the unpaid wages you are owed by contacting Elite Employment Law today.