Unpaid Wages in California: Assert Your Rights & Recover Your Due
Unpaid wages can create a significant financial burden and cause undue stress. If you're in California and facing this issue, you're not alone. Thousands of Californians face the challenge of unpaid wages, but rest assured - you have legal rights to protect you and recover what's owed.
Understanding California Wage and Hour Laws
California's wage and hour laws are among the strictest in the U.S., designed to safeguard employee rights. They mandate minimum wage, overtime, meal breaks, and more. Employers failing to comply with these laws can be held accountable and forced to pay you the wages you've earned.
​
Recognizing Unpaid Wages
Unpaid wages can occur in many forms, such as non-payment, underpayment, unpaid overtime, illegal deductions, or not receiving final paycheck. Recognizing these issues is the first step to reclaiming your rightful earnings.
​
How to Recover Unpaid Wages in California
If you're facing wage theft, you can file a wage claim with California's Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) or sue your employer in court. Here's how to proceed:
-
Documentation: Gather all relevant records like timesheets, pay stubs, and employment contracts, providing evidence of your unpaid wages.
-
File a Claim: File a wage claim with the DLSE. The process can be lengthy, but it is a powerful legal tool for employees to recover their lost wages.
-
Litigation: If your employer refuses to pay even after a claim, you can opt for litigation. Consulting with a knowledgeable employment lawyer is advisable in this situation.
​
Get Legal Help
When dealing with unpaid wages, it's often beneficial to consult with an experienced employment attorney. They can guide you through the complex legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected, and you recover your rightful wages.
​
Contact Us
Unpaid wages in California are more than an inconvenience—they're a violation of your rights. Contact our team of experienced employment lawyers today for a free consultation and let us help you reclaim your hard-earned money.