San Diego Law Firms Sue A.M. Ortega Construction Over Employment Violations
In a significant move aimed at protecting workers' rights, the San Diego-based Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC have jointly filed a class action lawsuit against A.M. Ortega Construction, Inc. on September 2, 2025. This legal action, lodged in the San Diego County Superior Court, accuses the construction company of multiple serious violations of the California Labor Code.
The complaint, designated Case No. 25CU031710C, claims that A.M. Ortega Construction failed to provide adequate meal and rest periods for its employees, a fundamental right under California labor laws. Specifically, the lawsuit cites violations that cover not only the lack of meal breaks but also the inadequate compensation for hours worked, including overtime. Under California law, employers are required to pay their employees for all hours worked, including any additional time incurred before or after scheduled shifts, as well as work performed during unpaid breaks.
According to the lawsuit, employees were allegedly compelled to perform duties during their off-duty meal breaks and before and after their official work hours, which is a clear infringement of labor laws designed to protect workers’ rights. The complaint points to the company's failure to pay minimum wage and overtime wages as well, further complicating the situation for workers who rely on their paychecks to meet day-to-day living expenses.
California labor laws establish that every employee must be compensated not less than the local minimum wage for every hour worked, without exceptions. The law defines 'hours worked' as any time employees are under the control of their employer, encompassing all periods when the employee is allowed or required to work, even if such work is not explicitly mandated. This aspect of labor law is critical to understanding the obligations companies have towards their employees.
The accusations made against A.M. Ortega Construction also highlight failures in providing accurate itemized wage statements and reimbursement for required expenses, creating additional legal ramifications. These deficiencies not only violate state laws but also undermine the trust between employer and employee, fostering an environment of discontent and disillusionment among the workforce.
As the litigation progresses, attorney Jackland Hom, representing the plaintiffs, has encouraged affected individuals to reach out for further information. The Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, known for advocating employee rights against unjust labor practices, stand ready to assist those impacted by similar issues of wage theft, wrongful terminations, discrimination, and other workplace grievances.
This class action not only seeks reparation for the affected employees but serves as a broader reminder of the importance of compliance with labor laws, reinforcing the need for companies to prioritize lawful and fair treatment of their employees. As the proceedings unfold, the outcome could significantly influence California’s labor landscape, particularly for employees working in high-demand sectors like construction.
As a reminder, employment law protections remain pivotal in ensuring fair treatment and ethical employment practices across all industries. For any potential plaintiff or concerned worker, this lawsuit highlights the importance of understanding their rights and the actions they can take in the event of labor law violations.
If you require assistance or wish to report similar grievances, reach out to Zakay Law Group or JCL Law Firm for legal support in navigating your employment rights.
The complaint, designated Case No. 25CU031710C, claims that A.M. Ortega Construction failed to provide adequate meal and rest periods for its employees, a fundamental right under California labor laws. Specifically, the lawsuit cites violations that cover not only the lack of meal breaks but also the inadequate compensation for hours worked, including overtime. Under California law, employers are required to pay their employees for all hours worked, including any additional time incurred before or after scheduled shifts, as well as work performed during unpaid breaks.
According to the lawsuit, employees were allegedly compelled to perform duties during their off-duty meal breaks and before and after their official work hours, which is a clear infringement of labor laws designed to protect workers’ rights. The complaint points to the company's failure to pay minimum wage and overtime wages as well, further complicating the situation for workers who rely on their paychecks to meet day-to-day living expenses.
California labor laws establish that every employee must be compensated not less than the local minimum wage for every hour worked, without exceptions. The law defines 'hours worked' as any time employees are under the control of their employer, encompassing all periods when the employee is allowed or required to work, even if such work is not explicitly mandated. This aspect of labor law is critical to understanding the obligations companies have towards their employees.
The accusations made against A.M. Ortega Construction also highlight failures in providing accurate itemized wage statements and reimbursement for required expenses, creating additional legal ramifications. These deficiencies not only violate state laws but also undermine the trust between employer and employee, fostering an environment of discontent and disillusionment among the workforce.
As the litigation progresses, attorney Jackland Hom, representing the plaintiffs, has encouraged affected individuals to reach out for further information. The Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, known for advocating employee rights against unjust labor practices, stand ready to assist those impacted by similar issues of wage theft, wrongful terminations, discrimination, and other workplace grievances.
This class action not only seeks reparation for the affected employees but serves as a broader reminder of the importance of compliance with labor laws, reinforcing the need for companies to prioritize lawful and fair treatment of their employees. As the proceedings unfold, the outcome could significantly influence California’s labor landscape, particularly for employees working in high-demand sectors like construction.
As a reminder, employment law protections remain pivotal in ensuring fair treatment and ethical employment practices across all industries. For any potential plaintiff or concerned worker, this lawsuit highlights the importance of understanding their rights and the actions they can take in the event of labor law violations.
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If you require assistance or wish to report similar grievances, reach out to Zakay Law Group or JCL Law Firm for legal support in navigating your employment rights.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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