UNPAID WAGES
Unpaid Wage Lawyer
When you put in hard work, you expect to be fairly compensated. If you're not being paid what you’re owed, it’s not only frustrating—it’s illegal. We are ready to help you fight for your rights.
Do I Have an Unpaid Wage Claim?
The best way to determine if you have a claim is by consulting a California unpaid wage lawyer.
However, you may have a claim if your employer has:
Violated minimum wage laws
Failed to pay overtime wages
Denied legally mandated breaks
Withheld vacation pay
Misappropriated your tips or commissions
Made improper deductions from your paycheck
Each of these violations undermines your rights as an employee.
It’s important to know that these actions are unlawful, and we can help you take a stand.
How to File an Unpaid Wage Claim
To file an unpaid wage claim with the California Department of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE), you'll need:
Time records: Notes or calendars showing your hours worked.
Paystubs: Proof of earnings during the investigation period.
Bounced checks: Evidence of insufficient funds from your employer.
Notice to Employee: Information provided when you were hired.
Contracts (if applicable): Additional documentation to support your claim.
These documents help streamline the process. Your employer will also be asked to provide their records to verify or refute your claim.
Wage & Hour FAQ’s
What should I do if my employer hasn’t paid me for hours worked?
California law requires that you receive a detailed pay stub with each paycheck. This document must show your hours worked, hourly rate, and deductions. If your employer isn’t providing this information or paying you properly, it’s a clear violation of state law. Speaking to an experienced attorney can help clarify your rights and build your case.
How do I know if my employer is committing wage theft?
Wage theft can take many forms, including:
Employers demanding a “kickback” from your paycheck.
Failing to pay prevailing wages on public works projects.
Misreporting hours worked or underpaying hourly rates.
Immigrant workers are often the most vulnerable to wage theft, but California law protects all employees regardless of immigration status or language barriers. If you suspect wage theft, contact a lawyer immediately.
What if my employer won’t pay bonuses or commissions?
California law treats bonuses and commissions differently. Whether they must be paid depends on the facts of your case, such as the terms of your employment agreement and the conditions for earning these payments. If you’ve met the requirements for earning a bonus or commission, your employer is generally required to pay.
What should I do if I’m not being paid minimum wage?
California’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum wage and increases annually. If you’re being paid less due to unlawful deductions, piece-rate pay, or lack of pay during rest breaks, you may have a claim.
Am I entitled to overtime?
Most employees in California are entitled to overtime after 8 hours in a day. Your employer cannot simply classify you as "salaried" to avoid paying overtime. Determining whether you qualify for overtime requires analyzing your job duties and pay structure.
Can my employer refuse to pay overtime?
Employers are required to pay overtime unless a specific exemption applies. If your employer denies overtime, they must prove you qualify for one of these limited exemptions.
