Los Angeles Wage Dispute Lawyer

In California, wage disputes are far more common than many realize. Studies reveal that over $2 billion in wages are stolen from workers annually, with industries like retail, hospitality, and construction seeing the highest violations. For employees in Los Angeles, where the cost of living is among the highest in the nation, every dollar counts. When employers fail to pay fairly, it’s not just a financial loss—it’s a violation of your rights. FLG is here to fight for workers who are tired of being shortchanged, silenced, or ignored.

What Are Wage Disputes?

Wage disputes occur when employers fail to pay employees what they’re owed under the law. This includes unpaid wages, withheld overtime, denied meal breaks, or improper deductions. For employees in Los Angeles, where long hours and demanding jobs are common, wage theft can take many forms and leave workers feeling powerless.

Marina Fraigun understands the complexities of wage disputes and is committed to ensuring employers are held accountable. When your paycheck doesn’t reflect your hard work, Marina takes your case personally, ensuring you get the justice—and pay—you deserve.

Examples of Wage Disputes in the Workplace

Wage disputes can happen in many ways, including:

• Unpaid Overtime: Denying overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week or 8 hours per day.
• Misclassification: Labeling employees as independent contractors to avoid paying benefits or overtime.
• Meal and Rest Break Violations: Failing to provide legally required breaks.
• Off-the-Clock Work: Asking employees to perform duties before clocking in or after clocking out.
• Illegal Deductions: Withholding money from wages for uniforms, equipment, or other expenses without consent.
• Minimum Wage Violations: Paying employees below the state-mandated minimum wage.

Types of Wage Disputes

• Overtime Pay Disputes
• Misclassification of Employees
• Meal and Rest Break Violations
• Off-the-Clock Work
• Unpaid Wages or Commissions
• Minimum Wage Violations

Breaking Down the Types of Wage Disputes

Overtime pay disputes

California law requires overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 8 in a day or 40 in a week. Employers often skirt this law by misreporting hours or denying pay altogether. Marina ensures you get what you’ve earned.

Misclassification of Employees

Employers may classify workers as independent contractors to save money. However, if your job duties reflect those of an employee, Marina will fight to correct your classification and recover owed wages.

Meal & rest break violations

California law mandates meal breaks for shifts over 5 hours and rest breaks for every 4 hours worked. If your employer denies these breaks, Marina will hold them accountable.

Off-the-clock Work

Employers who require tasks to be performed before clocking in or after clocking out are violating the law. Marina gathers evidence to ensure your time is compensated.

Unpaid wages or commissions

Employers withholding earned wages or commissions not only violate labor laws but also harm workers’ livelihoods. Marina will pursue every dollar owed to you.

minimum Wage Violations

Failing to provide reasonable accommodations for religious practices—such as schedule flexibility for holidays or dress code exceptions—is a common way religious discrimination occurs in the workplace.

California Laws Protecting Employees in Wage Disputes

California’s labor laws are some of the strongest in the country. Key protections include:

• California Labor Code Section 510: Ensures proper overtime pay.
• California Wage Orders: Regulate meal and rest breaks, minimum wage, and working conditions.
• AB 5: Defines the criteria for independent contractor classification.
• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Provides federal protections for minimum wage and overtime.

These laws empower employees to demand fair treatment and hold employers accountable for wage violations.

What Qualifies as Wage Dispute?

Wage disputes arise when employers fail to follow California labor laws regarding compensation, hours, or workplace conditions. While some issues are blatant, like unpaid overtime, others are more subtle, leaving employees questioning whether their rights have been violated. Key examples of wage disputes include:

• Unpaid Overtime: Being denied overtime pay for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week.
• Misclassification: Being classified as an independent contractor when your duties and work conditions meet the legal definition of an employee.
• Meal and Rest Break Violations: Not being allowed to take legally required breaks during your shift or not being compensated when breaks are skipped.
• Off-the-Clock Work: Being required to complete tasks before clocking in or after clocking out.
• Illegal Deductions: Having wages reduced for uniforms, supplies, or other expenses without prior consent or legal justification.
• Minimum Wage Violations: Receiving less than California’s minimum wage for your work, regardless of your job title or industry.

Each of these examples represents a breach of your rights as an employee. If you’ve experienced any of these scenarios or suspect other wage-related violations, Fraigun Law Group can assess your situation and take action to protect your rights.

How Do I Prove a Wage Dispute?

Proving a wage dispute requires documentation of hours worked, pay stubs, and communication with your employer. Evidence can include:

• Timesheets showing unpaid hours.
• Emails or texts instructing off-the-clock work.
• Payroll records demonstrating discrepancies.

Marina will guide you in gathering evidence, analyzing records, and building a compelling case against your employer.

What Should I Do if I am a Victim of Wage Dispute?

If you believe your employer is violating your rights, follow these steps to protect yourself and build a strong case:

• Document Everything: Keep records of your hours worked, pay stubs, and any communication with your employer. If you’re asked to work off the clock, save emails or texts instructing you to do so.
• Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with California’s labor laws, including rules on overtime, breaks, and minimum wage. This will help you recognize when your employer’s actions are unlawful.
• Speak with an Employment Attorney: Wage disputes can be complex, and employers often rely on technicalities to evade accountability. AttorneyMarina Fraigun will evaluate your case, explain your options, and take immediate steps to protect your rights.
• Avoid Confrontation: While it’s important to address concerns with your employer, escalating conflicts without legal support can harm your case. Marina can guide you on how to communicate effectively and legally.
• Act Quickly: Wage disputes are subject to specific statutes of limitations. Delaying action can jeopardize your ability to recover what you’re owed.

By taking these steps, you can safeguard your rights and ensure that your case is well-prepared for legal action.

How Do I File a Complaint for a Wage Dispute?

Filing a wage dispute complaint is a structured process that begins with understanding your rights and gathering the necessary evidence. Here’s how to proceed:

• Consult an Attorney: The Fraigun Law Group will assess your claim, advise you on the strongest course of action, and help ensure your complaint meets all legal requirements.
• File a Claim with the California Labor Commissioner: Most wage disputes are filed with the Labor Commissioner’s Office. This involves completing a wage claim form detailing your employer’s violations and providing supporting evidence, such as timesheets, pay stubs, and communications.
• Attend the Pre-Hearing Conference: After filing, a conference may be scheduled to discuss the case informally. Marina will represent you, ensuring your concerns are clearly presented and your rights protected.
• Participate in a Formal Hearing, if Necessary: If the dispute isn’t resolved at the conference, the case may proceed to a hearing. Marina will advocate on your behalf, presenting evidence and challenging the employer’s defense.
• Litigate in Court, if Required: If the claim cannot be resolved through the Labor Commissioner, Marina is prepared to take your case to court to ensure justice is served.

Every step of the process can feel overwhelming, but with guidance, you’ll navigate it confidently and efficiently, maximizing your chances of a successful resolution.

Why Choose Fraigun Law Group for Your Wage Dispute Case?

When it comes to wage disputes, you need more than a lawyer—you need an advocate who’s unafraid to challenge powerful employers. Fraigun Law Group brings unwavering determination and unmatched experience to every case. She has a proven record of turning wage disputes into victories for employees across Los Angeles. Marina listens, strategizes, and takes action, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld. Don’t let your employer shortchange you—choose the law group that will fight for what you’re owed.

Common Questions about Wage Disputes

Wage disputes can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you’re unsure of your rights. In Los Angeles, where wage theft is all too common, workers often have questions about their situation and legal options. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand your rights and take action.

Fraigun Law Group Has Your Back in a Wage Dispute Case

When your employer refuses to pay what you’re owed, you need more than just legal advice—you need a fierce advocate who will fight for your rights. Marina has built her career taking on tough cases and delivering real results for employees across Los Angeles. She doesn’t just handle cases; she takes them personally, ensuring every client feels heard and supported.

With a deep understanding of California labor laws and a relentless drive to hold employers accountable, Marina brings the focus and tenacity your case demands. Don’t let wage disputes steal what you’ve rightfully earned—let the Fraigun Law Group fight for you and secure the justice you deserve.

Contact us today to get started on your case. Justice for workers starts here.