Legal Question in Employment Law in California
Is this legal compensation for work?
I am working for a company for the summertime, who requires me to
accept as payment: housing and 21 meals per week, plus a $380
''stipend'' for two weeks. Additionally, as an employee I have a 11 PM
curfew even though this is not written in the contract. Regardless of the
hours I work per week, I receive 380 dollars per every two weeks and
sometimes I work up to 60 hour work weeks. Additionally, the company
says I work 20 hours per week for my room and board. Though they
require I accept room and board and require they deduct this before I
even receive a paycheck. With the contract, the company has side-
stepped overtime, possibly payment of minimum wage, and the housing
and board is sold at a profit to THE COMPANY - though it is REQUIRED.
Also, we are supposed to be paid on the 7th and 22nd of every month.
Though, we started working on May 25th and had roughly 12 hour per
day training sessions for two weeks. We didn't receive a paycheck on
June 7th for the week of work and we were told that it was because
''training is different.'' We also had a May 1 training session for 9 hours
which no compensation was provided for. Myself and 9 other employees
are in this exact circumstance and are frustrated.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Is this legal compensation for work?
It sounds like this employer is engaging in many unlawful pay practices. Credit for meals and lodging in regulated by law and must meet strict requirements. Overtime must be paid for most work over 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. If you would like a full analysis of your claim, feel free to call me at 800-522-6728
Re: Is this legal compensation for work?
NO, it is probably not legal. You all can file a claim for unpaid compensation and improper deductions. An attorney may be able to get this resovled without having to file anything, but it may require claims at the Labor Commissioner, and hearings. Contact me if you wish to do so.