By Xinying Valerian
Employees at Aurora Santa Rosa Hospital just got a big reason to celebrate! A recent court decision paves the way for them to fight back together over alleged wage theft and missed breaks. Here’s what you need to know:
The Case:
- Nicole Chettero, a former nurse, sued the hospital claiming:
- Nursing department workers consistently missed or delayed meal and rest breaks due to understaffing.
- Employer didn’t pay the required premium pay for when workers missed or delayed meal and rest breaks.
The Win:
- The court agreed to let the case proceed as a class action, meaning hundreds of other nurses and staff are now part of the case!
- This means collective power to hold the hospital accountable for potentially widespread wage theft.
- Getting a class certified is a major victory on the road to obtaining justice for the nurses and mental health workers.
Key Points:
- Hundreds of affected workers: The court found enough nurses and staff were impacted to make a class action worthwhile.
- Shared problems, shared fight: The court agreed that many employees faced similar issues with breaks and pay.
- Nicole leads the charge: A former nurse will represent everyone in the case, ensuring their voices are heard.
- Justice for all: The court recognized that individual lawsuits might be too difficult, making this class action a fairer way to get everyone the compensation they deserve.
What’s Next:
- Class members were notified of their right to opt out of the class. Only three individuals opted out. This shows that most workers wish to have their meal break and rest break claims determined through this class action.
- The legal team will present a case for the entire class at a trial in September 2024.
If you think your rights have been violated, reach out to Valerian Law for a free consultation to see if you too can join the fight for fair treatment. Remember, you’re not alone!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation.