Legal Question in Employment Law in California

I work for a non union grocery store in California for the past 7 years. I recently was transfered from one store, where I was averaging 32 - 36 hours a week, to a busier store that makes more money a week. Shortly after being transfered i recieved a raise, most likely my yearly raise, and ever since my raise I am now averaging 24 - 27 hours a week. Is this practice normal or legally allowed to cut my hours based on what I make? Our policy company wide is "hours are based on attitude and performance" which has never been a problem for me.


Asked on 11/09/10, 11:42 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

The employer is entitled to set and change hours, duties, titles, compensation, benefits, leaves, vacations, holidays, policies, rules, etc. just not retroactively. Employees have the 'right' to pay and employee benefits per the CA wage and hour laws, and formal company policy as agreed, to be provided a 'safe' workplace to minimize risk of injury, and sometimes are entitled to certain medical/pregnancy leave rights. That's about it. There are no laws against 'unfair treatment' or poor management. In general, unless an employee is civil service, in a union, or has a written employment contract, they are an 'at will' employee that can be disciplined or fired any time for any reason, with or without �cause�, explanation or notice, other than for illegal discrimination, harassment or retaliation under the ADA disability, Civil Rights [age, race, sex, ethnic, religion, pregnancy, etc], Whistle-blower, or similar statutes. The employee's goal should be to keep the employer happy.

Read more
Answered on 11/15/10, 11:49 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Labor and Employment Law questions and answers in California