Legal Action Against Coast Central Credit Union: Employees' Meal Break Violations

Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP Takes Legal Action Against Coast Central Credit Union

In a significant move, the Sacramento-based employment law firm Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP has initiated a class action lawsuit against Coast Central Credit Union. The lawsuit, filed in Humboldt County Superior Court, accuses the credit union of violating several provisions of the California Labor Code, specifically regarding meal and rest breaks owed to employees.

The suit stems from allegations that Coast Central Credit Union not only failed to provide legally mandated meal and rest breaks but also did not compensate employees accurately for the time they worked. According to the complaint, employees often found themselves clocked out during their supposed meal breaks yet were still required to perform work tasks. This practice, the lawsuit claims, contributed to a significant underpayment of wages and outright violations of established labor laws.

Allegations Outlined in the Lawsuit

The complaint lists a series of violations the plaintiffs allege occurred during their employment at Coast Central Credit Union. These include:
1. Failure to Pay Minimum Wages: Employees reportedly did not receive the minimum wage due for all hours worked, especially during required unpaid meal times.
2. Overtime Violations: The lawsuit claims that the credit union failed to pay employees for overtime hours worked, which is a serious breach of labor rights.
3. Inadequate Meal and Rest Periods: Employees state they were often not given the required meal breaks and rest periods as stipulated by California law. Specifically, employees were allegedly forced to work over four hours without a mandatory ten-minute break.
4. Inaccurate Wage Statements: Complaints also highlight the lack of correct itemized wage statements, leading to confusion and miscalculations regarding earned wages.
5. Expense Reimbursement Issues: The credit union is accused of not reimbursing employees for business-related expenses as required by law.
6. Unpaid Sick Wages: Allegations include the non-payment of sick wages, making it increasingly difficult for employees to take necessary time off without financial repercussions.

Legal Context and Implications

This lawsuit is not just about individual grievances; it reflects a broader trend of employees standing up against unfair labor practices. California Labor Code sections 201-203, 226, 226.7, and others cited in the complaint provide a robust framework for labor protections, and any violations could lead to severe penalties for the employer. If the plaintiffs succeed, they could not only recover unpaid wages but also secure damages for the distress caused by the alleged violations.

The involvement of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, known for its dedication to workers' rights, lends additional weight to the case. The firm has represented numerous employees in similar situations, fighting against unfair business practices that violate labor laws.

What Employees Should Know

For individuals working at Coast Central Credit Union or similar organizations, it is crucial to be aware of your rights concerning meal and rest breaks. Employees are entitled to take a 30-minute meal break for every five hours worked and must receive a ten-minute break for every four hours worked. Knowledge of these rights can empower employees and encourage them to stand firm against any violations they may experience.

Workers facing unpaid wages, wrongful termination, or other unfair labor practices are encouraged to seek legal assistance. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP offers consultations for those needing guidance on employment-related issues, particularly concerning wage disputes and compliance with California labor laws.

To find out more about the ongoing class action lawsuit against Coast Central Credit Union or to discuss your own employment concerns, please contact the attorneys at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP at (800) 568-8020.

This case highlights the importance of adhering to labor laws that protect workers' rights, underscoring that employees should never hesitate to seek justice when those rights are compromised.