Have you been working long hours and not receiving the overtime pay you deserve? California has some of the strictest overtime laws in the country, and employers in Manhattan Beach are obligated to follow them. If you suspect your employer is violating your overtime rights, seeking legal counsel from a knowledgeable Manhattan Beach overtime violations attorney at Rager & Yoon can help you recover the wages you’ve earned.
Overtime Pay in California
California law dictates that most non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay under specific circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
- Overtime Rate: You are entitled to time-and-a-half your regular pay rate for any hours worked over eight in a workday or over 40 hours in a workweek.
- Double Time: You can double your regular pay rate for those additional hours if you work more than 12 hours in a single workday.
- Meal and Rest Breaks: California mandates that employers provide paid meal breaks and rest breaks depending on the length of your shift.
Denying or interrupting these breaks can also be a violation.
Common Overtime Violations in Manhattan Beach
Overtime violations occur when employers fail to adhere to state and federal wage laws. In California, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay at one-and-a-half times their regular pay rate for any hours worked over eight a day or 40 in a week. Employees working more than 12 hours a day must receive double pay for those additional hours. Unfortunately, not all employers comply with these rules. Some of the most common violations include:
- Failure to Pay Overtime: Employers might deliberately refuse to pay workers for their overtime hours. This is a direct violation of California’s labor laws.
- Misclassifying Employees: Some employers wrongly classify workers as “exempt” to avoid paying overtime. Exempt employees are typically salaried and have managerial or professional duties. Misclassification is a widespread issue that often leads to wage disputes.
- Off-the-clock Work: Employees may be required to complete tasks before or after clocking in, leading to unpaid work hours. This practice is illegal under state labor laws.
- Improper Calculation of Overtime Pay: Employers might calculate overtime based on an incorrect hourly rate, shortchanging the worker. This often happens when bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation are not included in the overtime calculation.
If you suspect that any of these violations apply to you, it’s essential to consult with an overtime violations lawyer in Manhattan Beach to ensure your rights are protected.
How a Manhattan Beach Overtime Violations Attorney at Rager & Yoon Can Help
Navigating the complexities of California overtime laws can be challenging. An experienced Manhattan Beach overtime violations attorney at Rager & Yoon can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Evaluating Your Case: Our legal team will review your employment situation, analyze your paystubs, and determine if you’ve been a victim of overtime pay violations.
- Calculating Back Pay: We’ll meticulously calculate the amount of unpaid overtime wages you’re entitled to under California law.
- Negotiation and Litigation: We’ll handle all communication with your employer, aggressively negotiating for a fair settlement of your back pay. We’ll represent you in court to enforce your legal rights if necessary.
- Protecting Your Rights: We’ll ensure your rights are protected throughout the process and that you’re not retaliated against for pursuing your owed wages.
What to Do if You Suspect an Overtime Violation
If you believe you are a victim of overtime violations, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Keep Detailed Records: Document your hours worked, including start and end times, overtime hours, and pay stubs. Accurate records will strengthen your case.
- Speak to an Attorney: Discuss your situation with a Manhattan Beach overtime violations attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you seek legal help, the better your chances of recovering your lost wages.
- Avoid Retaliation: While reporting overtime violations can be intimidating, remember that it’s illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for asserting your rights. If you experience retaliation, such as a demotion or wrongful termination, this is an additional violation that an attorney can address.
Protecting Your Rights as a Worker
Overtime violations not only impact your paycheck but also your overall well-being. You work hard and deserve fair compensation for your time and effort. Don’t wait to take action if you believe your employer is violating California’s overtime laws.
At Rager & Yoon, the legal team is prepared to fight on your behalf to secure the wages you are owed. Your rights matter, and with the help of a skilled overtime violations lawyer in Manhattan Beach, you can hold your employer accountable and reclaim the compensation you deserve.
Reach out for free consultation.
Keep your employer from taking advantage of your hard work. Contact Rager & Yoon today. We offer a free case evaluation to discuss your situation and determine the best action. Our Manhattan Beach overtime violations attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the fair wages you deserve. Call 310-527-6994 or email jeff@ragerlawoffices.com to schedule your consultation.