Legal Question in Employment Law in Georgia

Employee Rights to get paid

Hi,

I know someone in the state of Georgia, Fulton county, who worked at a restaurant. One day, this restaurant said a new owner was taking over the restaurant and they would be out of work for a bit. Well, one day they said they needed to be at the restaurant for a meeting. He went and they informed everyone that the restaurant would be closing down. He had one more paycheck to receive, of about $600, and they refused to pay anyone. So, he was out $600 that he worked hard for. That was his money. Well, he went to court today and the judge asked them to prove to him/her by Friday that they have a right to get paid. Wow! Ok, so my question is; Isn't there a law that states an employee has a right to be paid? If so, where can he find this law and how can he prove it? Also, isn't it his right to be paid for his inconviences? I mean, he can barely pay rent and is behind on bills all because of this mess. If so, how would he go about convincing the judge to grant him the money he deserves?

Thank you,

Kristin


Asked on 7/29/08, 9:46 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Paula McGill Attorney at Law

Re: Employee Rights to get paid

Neither you nor your friend should be surprised that the judge requires evidence (documentary or witness testimony) to support any claim. You can't simply go into court and say you worked and expect money.

There are many ways to provide evidence of work. The OBVIOUS ones are to bring work schedules for that week, time sheets for that week, evidence that the restaurant was open for that period, co-workers who worked with the plaintiff that week, and anyone else who saw the person on those work days. The more evidence you bring the better your chances.

Read more
Answered on 7/30/08, 12:36 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Labor and Employment Law questions and answers in Georgia