Legal Question in Employment Law in Massachusetts

massage therapist expected to work for no $

Hi. I am a massage therapist working

for a large and prestigious spa that

has recently adopted a new policy. I

am brand new and receive a 50%

split for each massage. The new

policy is that we cannot leave if we

don't have massages and are

expected to clean, do laundry, and do

free chair massages for no

compensation. This means that if I

only have one massage today, I am

expected to work the rest of the time

for no pay. Is this legal? Who do I

call to report this or get some advice?


Asked on 5/19/09, 1:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Christopher Vaughn-Martel Charles River Law Partners, LLC

Re: massage therapist expected to work for no $

There is a chance that this system violates the Massachusetts Wage and Hour laws. It is unclear from your post whether you are an independent contractor or an employee. Based on your description, it appears that the employer is treating you like an employee. Either way, it is certainly possible that your employer's policies violate the law.

Do not hesitate to contact my office if you would like to schedule a consultation.

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Answered on 5/19/09, 2:44 pm


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