Wage & Hour Law Services at Valiant Law

At Valiant Law, we understand that navigating the complexities of California's labor and employment laws can be a daunting task for both employers and employees. The wage and hour laws in California are among the most intricate in the United States, making it essential for businesses to comply with all applicable statutes and for employees to be fully aware of their rights. Our skilled attorneys at Valiant Law are here to guide you through these challenges, ensuring fair treatment, compliance, and effective solutions in all wage and hour-related matters. 

Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Help. Call tel:(909) 254-5771 or fill out our form to schedule your consultation with Valiant Law. We're here to protect your rights.

Understanding California Wage & Hour Laws

California has stringent wage and hour laws that are designed to protect workers' rights. These laws cover a wide range of issues, including minimum wage, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and proper classification of employees. Given the high penalties for violations, it’s crucial for businesses to understand and adhere to these regulations.

• Minimum Wage: California’s minimum wage laws have changed significantly in recent years. As of 2024, the state’s minimum wage is $15.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of size. However, some cities, counties, or municipalities may have set higher minimum wage rates, and employers must comply with the most favorable wage rate for their workers. At Valiant Law, we advise both employers and employees on how to ensure compliance with the applicable minimum wage laws.
• Overtime Pay: In California, employees are entitled to overtime pay at a rate of one and a half times their regular pay rate for any hours worked over 8 hours in a single workday or 40 hours in a workweek. Additionally, employees who work more than 12 hours in a day are entitled to double time pay. For businesses, it is crucial to understand the proper classification of employees to avoid costly overtime claims. Valiant Law provides strategic counsel to help employers manage overtime pay obligations while minimizing legal risks.
• Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Employees: A critical issue under California’s wage and hour laws is the classification of workers as either exempt or non-exempt. Exempt employees are not entitled to overtime pay, whereas non-exempt employees are. Employers must ensure that job titles and duties are aligned with the appropriate classification to avoid violating labor laws. Misclassifying an employee as exempt when they should be non-exempt can lead to significant legal liabilities, including back pay, penalties, and interest. Our legal team is proficient in assisting companies in properly classifying their workers, minimizing the risk of legal action.
• Meal and Rest Breaks: California law requires employers to provide meal breaks and rest periods to employees, ensuring that workers are well-rested and able to perform their tasks effectively. Non-exempt employees must receive a 30-minute meal break if they work more than 5 hours in a day, and a second 30-minute meal break if they work more than 10 hours. Additionally, employees are entitled to a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4-hour work period. Employers who fail to comply with meal and rest break requirements may face claims for missed breaks and potential penalties. Valiant Law offers comprehensive guidance to employers on how to structure employee schedules in compliance with these regulations.

Wage & Hour Disputes

Wage and hour disputes are a common source of legal conflict in California, and employees frequently file lawsuits against their employers for violations of wage and hour laws. Some of the most common claims include:

• Unpaid overtime: When employees are not properly compensated for overtime hours worked.
• Misclassification of employees: When workers are classified as exempt from overtime when they should be non-exempt.
• Failure to pay minimum wage: When workers are not paid the required minimum wage for all hours worked.
• Meal and rest break violations: When employees are not given proper meal or rest breaks as required by law.
• Wage theft: When employers fail to pay employees for all hours worked, such as not paying for time spent off the clock or not compensating for travel time.

Our team of attorneys at Valiant Law provides effective representation for employees who have experienced wage and hour violations, helping them recover unpaid wages, penalties, and other damages. We also represent businesses in defending against wage and hour claims, working to mitigate risks and reduce potential liabilities.

Valiant Law’s Expertise in Wage & Hour Compliance

The attorneys at Valiant Law are well-versed in California’s complex wage and hour laws, as well as federal regulations. We offer legal services for both employers and employees, providing clear advice and sound strategies tailored to each client’s unique needs. Our services include:

• Employee Classification Audits: Helping employers determine whether workers should be classified as exempt or non-exempt and assisting with the reclassification process when necessary.
• Overtime Compliance: Advising businesses on their obligations to pay overtime wages and implementing systems to track hours worked accurately.
• Wage & Hour Investigations: Assisting in investigations and audits by government agencies, including the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
• Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Representing both employers and employees in wage and hour disputes, either through negotiations or in court.
• Preventative Counsel: Offering proactive guidance to businesses on how to avoid wage and hour violations, including the development of employee handbooks, training programs, and internal policies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Wage & Hour Law

• What are my rights as an employee regarding overtime pay in California?
  California law requires employers to pay non-exempt employees one and a half times their regular hourly rate for any hours worked beyond 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week. Additionally, employees working more than 12 hours in a day are entitled to double time pay. If you believe your employer is not paying you overtime correctly, you may have a valid claim for unpaid wages.
• Can my employer require me to work through my meal break?
  No, in California, employees are entitled to a 30-minute meal break if they work more than 5 hours in a workday. Employers are not allowed to force employees to work during this time. If your employer is denying your meal break or not providing it, you may be entitled to compensation for missed breaks.
• How can I tell if I am being classified as exempt or non-exempt incorrectly?
  Exempt employees are generally those in executive, professional, or administrative roles who are paid a salary and meet certain job duties criteria. Non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay. If you are a salaried employee and believe you should be entitled to overtime pay, a consultation with an attorney can help determine whether your classification is correct.
• What should I do if I believe I am not being paid the correct minimum wage?
  If you believe you are not receiving the minimum wage required by law, you can file a wage claim with the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE). Additionally, consulting with an attorney at Valiant Law can help ensure that your rights are protected and assist in recovering any back wages owed to you.
• Can an employer retaliate against me for filing a wage claim?
  It is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for asserting their rights under California wage and hour laws. If you experience retaliation, such as being demoted, fired, or discriminated against, after filing a wage claim or raising concerns about wage and hour violations, you may have a separate legal claim for retaliation.

Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Help. Call tel:(909) 254-5771 or fill out our form to schedule your consultation with Valiant Law. We're here to protect your rights.

Contact Valiant Law for Your Wage & Hour Needs

If you are facing a wage and hour issue or need guidance on compliance with California labor laws, the team at Valiant Law is here to help. With years of experience in handling complex wage and hour matters, we are committed to delivering reliable and effective legal solutions to protect your interests.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys, contact Valiant Law today. Whether you're an employer looking to ensure compliance or an employee seeking justice, we are ready to assist you in achieving the best possible outcome.