Common Wage & Hour Violations
California has many laws on the books which require that workers get paid fairly. Although a small number of workers are “exempt” from them, most workers are fully covered:
- Minimum wage protections. You are entitled to a minimum wage. California has a higher minimum wage than the federal wage. In 2024, the state minimum is $16. Individual cities and counties can also set a minimum wage higher than the state floor. Consult a Fairfield wage & hour lawyer with our firm to see if you are being paid the minimum.
- Overtime and double time. Workers should be paid at least time and a half (150%) when they work more than 8 hours in a day, more than 40 hours in a week, and/or for the seventh consecutive day. You are also entitled to double time (200%) if you work more than 12 hours in a day or after the 8th hour on your seventh consecutive day. Very few workers are exempt—and being salaried does not automatically exempt you.
- Rest breaks. An employer must give you paid rest breaks. If you work for 3.5 hours, you must get at least one 10-minute uninterrupted break which is paid. If you work at least 7 hours, you should receive a second paid break. Further, employers must provide an unpaid, uninterrupted 30-minute meal break if you work more than 5 hours a day—and two meal breaks if you work more than 10 hours. Unfortunately, many employers deny these breaks, refuse to pay for them, or have you “work through” lunch.
These are some of the most common hour and wage violations we have seen in Fairfield businesses. If you think your rights may have been violated, feel free to reach out to Venardi Zurada LLP. Our employment law team is here to answer your questions and guide you through your options.
You Are Protected from Retaliation
Any worker denied minimum wage, overtime, or rest breaks should consult an attorney. Some workers are fearful because they anticipate their employer retaliating. But this type of retaliatory conduct is flatly illegal.
Call our office. We can help you document the wage and hour violation. We can then seek compensation, including the wages you are owed and a civil penalty on top.
Our Fairfield Wage & Hour Lawyers Provide Free Case Evaluations
Do you suspect your employer isn’t paying you for every hour you have worked? Maybe you aren’t sure but have some questions. Call Venardi Zurada today at (833) 893-6763 or contact us online . A Fairfield wage & hour lawyer can provide expert legal advice in a private meeting. If hired, we can bring a claim on your behalf and hold your boss accountable.
