Wage Theft Lawyer in Orange County, CA

Wage theft is a common problem in many industries. It can take various forms, such as being paid below minimum wage, not receiving overtime, or altering your hours without your knowledge or consent. 

Wage theft can have serious consequences for California workers, including financial hardship and loss of job security.

MJB Law Group specializes in employment law, and has years of experience holding companies accountable for wage theft practices. We know the best way to get you the justice you deserve and will fight for maximum compensation under California law.

Understanding Wage Theft in California

​​Wage theft is when your employer fails to pay what you are owed. This can include failing to pay wages, salaries, overtime, benefits, and tips. Many California workers don’t realize that they’re victims, and sometimes, it can be tricky to uncover and even harder to prove. 

The State of California Department of Industrial Relations compiled the following examples of how unscrupulous employers engage in wage theft:

• Being paid lower than the legally required minimum wage per hour
• Being denied the right to take breaks for meals or rest
• Not receiving previously agreed-upon wages, including overtime pay for commission-based, piece-rate, or regular work
• Owners or managers taking money from the tips you earned
• Not having the option to accumulate or use your earned sick leave
• Not receiving compensation for expenses related to your job duties
• Not receiving promised vacations or bonuses as part of your compensation
• Money taken out of your paycheck without your consent or legal authorization
• Not being paid extra for working split shifts
• Receiving a bounced paycheck or a check that the bank cannot process
• Not receiving your final wages within a reasonable time frame
• Not receiving pay for the time you were scheduled to work but sent home early
• Being denied timely access to records related to your employment, such as your personnel file or payroll records

How Can I Get The Money I’m Owed?

Many victims of wage theft in California have tried speaking to their employers about unpaid wages, only to be met with excuses or even threats. They might have been told, "That's just how we do things," or warned that pursuing the matter further could cost them their job. If you find yourself in this position, you may be in need of an Orange County unpaid wages lawyer.

Two Main Methods to Recover Stolen Wages

So, how can wage theft victims get the money they’re owed if their employers won’t cooperate?

There are two main methods for recovering stolen wages, benefits, and earnings:

• Submit a Formal Wage Claim to the California Labor Commissioner
• Pursue a Wage Theft Lawsuit Against Your Employer

The quickest and most effective way to get the money you're owed is to contact an experienced California wage theft attorney immediately. A skilled lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove wage theft.

Evidence You May Need to Gather

• Pay stubs
• Records of hours worked
• Eyewitness accounts
• Emails and other correspondence with your employer

Why a Lawsuit May Be the Best Option

When you file a lawsuit against your employer, you can seek liquidated damages, meaning you could recover more than just your unpaid wages with the help of an Orange County unpaid wages lawyer.

How Can I Afford a Lawyer for Wage Theft Claims?

We understand that many workers are already facing financial difficulties when they reach out to our law firm. Whether your employer has been withholding overtime pay or failing to provide the proper commission for your sales, we’re here to help.

Our Orange County employment lawyers offer a FREE case evaluation to discuss your situation. During this meeting, we’ll learn more about your case, answer any questions you have, and explore your legal options.

When you choose us to represent you, we work on a contingency basis. This means we don’t get paid unless we successfully resolve your claim or lawsuit. Our fee is a percentage of your settlement, so you won’t have to worry about paying us out-of-pocket.

Our Focus Areas in Employment Law

At MJB Law Group, we specialize in a range of employment law matters to protect your rights. Our practice areas include:

• Wrongful Termination: We help employees who have been unlawfully fired or terminated.
• Discrimination and Harassment: We fight for those facing discrimination or harassment in the workplace.
• Unequal Pay: We support workers who are experiencing wage disparities and help those who are not receiving fair compensation in accordance with California's pay equity laws.
• Meal and Break Violations: We help ensure your rights are upheld by addressing violations related to meal and rest breaks, making sure you're compensated for any missed or unlawful break periods.
• Workplace Retaliation: We support employees who have been retaliated against for reporting violations.
• Whistleblower Protection: We assist employees who report illegal activities or unsafe working conditions, ensuring they are protected from retaliation under California law.

We understand the local employment laws and are committed to providing personalized, effective legal counsel to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

It’s Time for Change – Let Us Help You Make It Happen

Wage theft is an injustice that no worker should have to endure. If you’ve been exploited by your employer, it’s crucial to take action. You have the right to fair compensation, and with the right legal support, you can hold companies accountable for their actions. 

At MJB Law Group, we specialize in employment law and are dedicated to securing the justice you deserve. Don’t let wage theft impact your livelihood any longer—let us fight for the compensation you are owed. 

Your rights are worth protecting, and we’re here to make sure they’re upheld. Contact us for a FREE consultation and take the first step toward securing your financial future.