Q: How can I get the California Labor ?Department to actually read my information about my case?
I have proof that I contacted them way before any time statutes past, but they will not even look at it.
A:
If your right to appeal has passed, there is no practical way to get them to take up your case. Whether you can approach the dispute from a litigation standpoint, i.e., in court, depends on much more information than you have provided here.
Trying to resolve a wage or hour dispute by filing an administrative complaint with the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement is only one way to approach such a problem. You have the alternative to suing the employer in court as well. You have the option of going either way. However, if you took either approach beyond a certain point, you lose the option to change directions and take the other.
It would be wise for you to locate and consult with an experienced employment law attorney as soon as possible to explore your facts and determine your options. I would suggest you look either on this site in the Find a Lawyer section, or go to www.cela.org, the home page for the California Employment Lawyers Association, an organization whose members are dedicated to the representation of employees against their employers.
Most employment attorneys who practice this area of law offer a free or low cost consultation in the beginning and then, if the matter has merit and value, will usually agree to work on a contingency basis, meaning you can hire an attorney without paying any money until the matter results in a positive outcome for you. Many advance all the costs of the litigation as well. Do not let fear of fees and costs keep you from finding a good attorney.
Good luck to you.
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