#United States #San Diego #BAE Systems #Matern Law Group #Wage Settlement

Matern Law Group Achieves Landmark $6.3 Million Wage Settlement for San Diego Ship Repair Workers

In a major win for labor rights, Matern Law Group, PC has successfully negotiated a $6.3 million class action settlement on behalf of current and former employees at BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair Inc. This settlement, which received the final approval from U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Battaglia, puts an end to a legal dispute that has highlighted significant wage and hour violations within the ship repair industry, specifically regarding meal and break periods.

Background of the Case

The legal journey began in 2021 when allegations were filed claiming that workers were not compensated fairly per both federal and California state labor regulations, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). The lawsuit transitioned from a state court to federal jurisdiction, revealing systemic issues regarding employee treatment within the ship repair workforce. This case involved around 2,400 workers who were affected by the company’s practices that allegedly ignored their rights to proper wages and breaks.

Details of the Settlement

The settlement structure is as follows:

• - Total Settlement Amount: The allocation will disperse more than $6.3 million among eligible workers.
• - Class Size: Approximately 2,400 individuals are included in this settlement, underscoring the extensive nature of the claims.
• - Attorney Fees: Out of the total settlement, $2.1 million has been allocated towards legal representation fees and around $180,000 will cover litigation expenses.
• - Class Representative Awards: Each class representative is set to receive $20,000 for their involvement and services.
• - Claim Allocations: Specific amounts have been designated for PAGA claims ($100,000) and FLSA collective members ($15,000).
• - Administration Costs: The settlement also sets aside $35,500 for administrative purposes related to the distribution of funds.

Matthew Matern, the Founding Attorney at Matern Law Group, stated, "This settlement reflects our firm’s continued commitment to holding employers accountable and securing justice for workers across California. Our clients perform difficult, essential labor, and they deserve to be treated fairly under the law."

The approval process, concluding a multi-year dedication to tackling wage violations, marks a significant chapter for diligent workers in the ship repair property and shows the importance of advocating for employee rights.

Importance of Legal Representation

Matern Law Group, represented by attorneys Matthew J. Matern, Dalia Khalili, Kiran Prasad, and Matthew W. Gordon, played a crucial role in bringing this case to a successful conclusion. Their commitment to protecting workers’ rights amplifies the need for legal guidance in navigating labor disputes and aspiring to secure fair treatment for all employees.

The overall impact of this settlement not only affects the current workers but also sets a precedent for ensuring compliance with labor laws in the broader Californian workforce. This case showcases what can happen when workers come together against infringement of their rights.

For those interested in learning more about this case or seeking legal advice, contact Matern Law Group, PC, at (310) 483-7772.

About Matern Law Group

Matern Law Group, PC, operates in Los Angeles, focusing its practice on safeguarding employee rights throughout California. Their unwavering commitment aims to ensure fair treatment and compliance with state labor regulations.

For more updates and information, follow Matern Law on their website or reach out to them directly.