What To Do If You’re Experiencing a Minimum Wage Violation in Koreatown, CA?

As a California employee, it is vital that you are aware of your rights when it comes to earning minimum wage. Your employer is required to pay you the minimum wage required by law based on your jurisdiction and industry, but many fail to do so. If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering what to do if you’re experiencing a minimum wage violation in Koreatown, CA.

In California, the state’s wage and hour laws offer vast protections to workers. Unfortunately, violations still occur. It is important to recognize the signs of minimum wage violations so that you can take the first step in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Common Minimum Wage Violations in Koreatown, California

California boasts one of the highest minimum wage rates in the United States. As of January 1st, 2025, the current minimum wage stands at $16.50 an hour. However, minimum wage violations can occur in several ways, including the following:

• Your employer is paying you less than the minimum wage rate.
• Your employer is paying you for fewer hours than you have actually worked.
• Your employer is not paying you for all the work you have done, including any overtime you may have worked.
• Your employer is taking illegal deductions from your paycheck.

If you have suffered any of these minimum wage violations in Koreatown, California, you have rights and should take action right away.

How You Can Fight a Minimum Wage Violation

When you experience a minimum wage violation in California, it is vital that you take quick and organized action to protect your rights and pursue the proper remedies for your situation. Consider taking the following actions:

• Document everything. First, it is important that you keep detailed records of all your hours worked, your pay stubs, any communications you have had with your employer regarding your wages, and any relevant policies or handbooks given to you by your workplace.
• Calculate wages. You will then want to review all your financial records and determine exactly how much you are owed after suffering a minimum wage violation.
• Gather evidence. It is important that you save all emails, photographs of your work schedules, text messages, and any other forms of physical documentation that can help support your minimum wage violation claim.
• Review your records. You can then request copies of your personnel file and payroll records from work, which your employer must provide you with, in order to ensure you are facing a minimum wage violation.
• Talk with your employer. You may then discuss this violation with your employer and make it known that you believe they have violated your right to minimum wage. In some cases, your employer may have simply made a mistake and will be more than happy to correct the situation.
• File an official complaint. If the employer does not address the issue, you have the right to file an official complaint with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office. This complaint may be filed online, through the phone, or in person at the local office.
• Contact a lawyer. If you believe your employer has violated your rights to California minimum wage, and they refuse to correct the situation, it is time to contact an experienced minimum wage attorney who can help you file your complaint and ensure you understand all your rights and legal options.

Penalties for California Minimum Wage Violations

If an employer is found to be violating your minimum wage rights, they may be subject to various penalties. These penalties can include:

• Back pay. In some cases, an employer may be required to pay you any back wages you are owed, including interest.
• Damages. Employers may also be required to pay victims additional amounts that are equal to the back pay owed in your case.
• Civil penalties. Some employers may find that they suffer fines for violating minimum wage laws.

FAQs

How Can an Attorney Help You With a Minimum Wage Violation in California?

When you work with an attorney regarding a minimum wage violation in California, they can work to evaluate your claim and ensure you have a valid case, assist you in filing an official complaint with the Labor Commissioner’s Office, enter into any pre-filing negotiations with your employer, and take your case before a jury or arbitrator should the need arise.

How Much Does a Minimum Wage Lawyer Charge for Their Services?

It is not always easy to offer an exact amount as to how much a minimum wage lawyer might charge for their services, as each lawyer and case is different. However, there are some common factors involved in most cases that can influence the final cost analysis. These factors include the complexity and duration of the case, as well as the experience of your attorney.

How Often Should My Employer Be Paying Me?

In California, all employers need to establish regular paydays and post payments on these days. They must also provide employees with wage statements when each payment comes through. In most cases, employers should pay their employees at least twice per month, if not more. If your employer fails to do so, you may be experiencing a wage and hour violation.

Can I Agree to Work for Less Than Minimum Wage?

No, you cannot agree to work for less than minimum wage in California, as this would be a direct violation of state minimum wage laws. Working for less than minimum wage is illegal since state minimum wage laws are binding, and even if you agree to this, you may still be able to file a wage violation claim against your employer.

Get Help With Your Minimum Wage Violation Case Today

At The Law Office of Briana Kim, we are passionate about ensuring you receive the proper payment for the work you do, and our team is ready to fight for your rights as an employee.

If you believe you are the victim of a minimum wage violation in Koreatown, California, Briana Kim, PC, is here to fight for you. We provide all our clients with attentive care, case-specific legal strategy, and compassionate legal guidance. Contact our offices today for a free consultation to learn more about our services.