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Unpaid Wages
Wage Theft Comes in Many Forms — Not Just Missing Paychecks
Wage theft isn’t always obvious. While some violations are blatant, like a bounced paycheck or unauthorized deductions, others are more subtle. Employers may underreport hours, withhold overtime, deny meal or rest breaks, or misclassify employees to avoid paying what’s owed.
If you think something about your paycheck isn’t right, it may be worth speaking with an attorney to learn whether your rights have been violated.
Colby Law Firm Attorneys
Focus on Employment Law
Discrimination. Retaliation. Unpaid wages. If you’re dealing with unfair treatment at work, you don’t have to face it alone. Colby Law Firm focuses on California employment law and helps workers take action when their rights may have been violated. Our attorneys bring years of experience advocating for employees, and we’re here to help you explore your legal options.
Colby Law Firm Has a Unique Advantage
We Have Experience
on “The Other Side”
Colby Law Firm stands firmly on the side of employees—but we know how the other side operates. Our lawyers have experience representing both employers and employees, and we use that insight to fight for your rights. You deserve a workplace free from harassment and discrimination, and we’re here to make sure you get it.
You Don't Have To Handle It Alone
Wrongful termination cases are tough to win without skilled legal representation—those who go it alone rarely get the outcome they deserve.
California labor laws change frequently, and employers have teams of legal heavyweights on their side. We know—we used to be them! We use our insider knowledge to anticipate their tactics, counter their strategies, and fight for the justice.
Whether you need aggressive representation in court or strategic guidance before filing a lawsuit, Colby Law Firm is ready to fight for you.
Contact us today for a free case review.
Unpaid Overtime
You May Be Entitled to Back Pay for Extra Hours Worked
California law requires employers to pay overtime when non-exempt employees work beyond standard daily or weekly limits. Unfortunately, some employers fail to pay properly—or avoid overtime altogether by misclassifying workers or asking them to work off the clock. If this has happened to you, you may be able to recover unpaid wages.
California’s overtime laws require:
- Time-and-a-half for all hours worked over 8 in a single workday or 40 in a workweek
- Double time for all hours worked over 12 in a single workday, or over 8 hours on the seventh consecutive day of work in a workweek
Wage Theft
Recognizing the Signs of Unpaid or Underpaid Work
Wage theft is a widespread issue that affects workers across industries—and often goes unnoticed. It can take many forms, some more obvious than others. If any of the following apply to your situation, you may be a victim of wage theft:
You’re paid less than California’s minimum wage.
Employers with 25 or fewer employees must pay at least $14.00/hour; those with more than 25 must pay at least $15.00/hour.
You’re asked to work off the clock.
This includes working through breaks, staying late without pay, being on call, correcting errors, or answering messages after hours.
You’re missing earned commissions or bonuses.
Whether you’re hourly or salaried, once commissions or bonuses are earned, they’re considered wages under the law.
More Examples of Wage Violations
Workers May Be Denied Pay in Ways That Aren’t Always Obvious
Wage violations go beyond missing hours or incorrect pay rates. Employers may fail to meet legal requirements related to time off, reimbursements, or final pay, leaving employees shortchanged. Examples include:
- Not being compensated for work-related travel
- Not receiving shift differential or split shift pay
- Not being paid reporting-time pay
- Denied meal or rest breaks
- Denied or blocked from using accrued sick leave
- Unpaid promised vacation or bonuses
- Not reimbursed for business expenses, such as phone use or mileage
- Final paycheck not provided within 24–72 hours, depending on the situation
Is It Worth Your Time To Seek Legal Counsel?
If you were fired for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons, pursuing legal action could mean recovering lost wages, benefits, and damages for emotional distress. A successfully managed case may result in a settlement without ever going to court. On the other hand, if you don’t take action, you risk losing the compensation you may rightfully deserve—and your employer faces no accountability for their unlawful conduct.
Colby Law Firm can evaluate your case and help you understand your options.
Contact us for a free case review today.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
Why Choose
Colby Law Firm
Aaron Colby is a California employment lawyer who knows how to resolve disputes. After 15 years representing companies, he started Colby Law Firm to represent employees. Aaron’s perspective and experience from being “on the other side” gives him an edge. Aaron brings his practical, focused, and relentless approach to helping employees protect their rights.
Aaron Colby
Lead Attorney and Founder Colby Law