Legal Question in Employment Law in California

Do I get paid if I show up with ''intent to work'' but get fired instead?

I worked as an office manager for a doctor for about one month. I always seemed to have a hard time getting him to pay me my wages: He was always late; paid me less; reduced my already worked hours; etc. Friday, I came to work. He told me he was ''cutting his losses.'' I was given my last pay check and told to leave. Later, I realized he had not paid me for two days that last week I had worked and Friday.

After several letters he finally paid me for the two days. I believe strongly that, because I arrived on Friday with ''intent to work,'' I should get salary compensation. The California Labor Commissioner confirmed this over the phone, but the doctor still refuses to pay. He quotes the ''at will'' clause on the brief employment manual I had signed and claims that he only pays for work performed.

Am I entitled to salary compensation for arriving with the ''intent to work''?


Asked on 11/19/02, 12:39 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Re: Do I get paid if I show up with ''intent to work'' but get fired instead?

"At-will" has NOTHING to do with your right to receive wages earned, including reporting time wages. I suggest you file a complaint with the Labor Commissioner. You will be able to seek penalties up to 30 days wages.

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Answered on 11/19/02, 3:24 pm


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