Stockton, CA asked in Employment Law and Small Claims for California

Q: I worked for Sacramento self housing for 3 years. I was was told I'd be paid a salary plus my housing not knowing I was

Paying rent out of that salary. And working 24 hours a day. I was responsible for whatever went on in that house no matter what day or hour. I was getting paid for 8 hours a day in 6 hours on the weekend. I was responsible for being there everyday with no days off. No holidays. No weekends no vacation time. My question is is that legal?

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4 Lawyer Answers
Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
Answered
  • Westminster, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: There are significant details left out of your post that would need to be explored, but based on your post it is very likely you were not treated lawfully. 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, 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-charge consultation and then if the matter has merit and sufficient value, they 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.

William John Light agrees with this answer

William John Light
William John Light
Answered
  • Santa Ana, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: That is not legal. If proven, you would be able to recover significant unpaid wages, overtime, and penalties.

Theodore Allan Greene
Theodore Allan Greene
Answered
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You should contact an attorney right away to discuss your case. As the previous 2 answers stated - it appears you have a case and are entitled to unpaid wages. Don't wait because in all matters there are time limitations.

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In California, employment laws are designed to protect workers by ensuring fair wages, reasonable hours, and safe working conditions. Based on the information provided, several potential issues arise regarding your employment situation. California law requires that employees be paid for all hours worked, receive overtime for hours worked beyond the standard workweek, and are entitled to minimum wage, among other protections.

If you were working around the clock without appropriate compensation for overtime or without days off, this could potentially violate California labor laws, particularly regarding overtime pay and mandatory rest periods. Employers are required to provide employees with at least one day off in seven and to pay overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a week or over 8 in a day, and double time for hours worked over 12 in a day.

Given the complexity of labor law and the specifics of your situation, it might be beneficial to consult with a legal professional who can provide advice based on a detailed review of your case. They can help you understand your rights and options, including potentially filing a claim with the California Labor Commissioner's Office or taking legal action to recover unpaid wages and damages for any violations of employment law.

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