Did you know that California labor law entitles you to uninterrupted meal and rest breaks throughout your workday? These breaks aren’t just benefits; they’re rights that protect your well-being. If your employer is violating these laws, you might be eligible for compensation. Here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and understand your options if your meal or rest breaks have been disrupted.
California’s Meal and Rest Break Laws
Under California law, employees are entitled to specific breaks based on the length of their shifts:
- Rest Breaks: You should get a paid 10-minute rest break for every four hours of work. This break should be uninterrupted, meaning you’re not expected to work or be “on-call” during this time.
- Meal Breaks: For every five hours worked, California law requires a 30-minute unpaid meal break. If you’re working a particularly long shift (10 hours or more), you’re entitled to a second meal break of at least 30 minutes.
These breaks are designed to help you recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Unfortunately, not all employers respect these laws, and some may even disrupt your breaks by calling or messaging you, expecting you to perform tasks during this time.
What Counts as a Violation?
Employers can’t just interrupt your breaks whenever they want. If you’re being asked to clock in early, answer work-related questions, or complete tasks during your break, that’s considered an interruption. For example:
- Being “On Call”: Even if you’re allowed to leave your workstation, if you’re expected to be “on-call” or respond immediately to any work-related needs, it’s a violation.
- Early Clock-Ins: If your supervisor asks you to clock back in before your break time is over, your right to a full break is being compromised.
- Interruptions During Meal Breaks: If you’re required to answer calls or check emails while on your lunch break, that’s an infringement of your rights.
What Can You Do if Your Rights Are Violated?
If you believe your employer is violating your right to meal and rest breaks, you have options to pursue compensation:
- Document the Violations: Start by keeping a record of each time your break is interrupted, noting dates, times, and the reasons for the interruptions. This documentation will be valuable if you decide to pursue a claim.
- Speak with an Employment Attorney: Consulting with an experienced employment attorney, like those at Lipeles Law Group, can help you understand your rights in detail. We can advise you on how to proceed with your claim and help you recover the compensation you’re owed for every missed or interrupted break.
- File a Claim: In California, labor laws allow employees to file claims for rest and meal break violations. If your claim is successful, you could receive compensation equivalent to one hour of pay for each day your break rights were violated.
Know Your Rights and Stand Up for Them
At Lipeles Law Group, we’re here to support you if your employer isn’t respecting your rights to breaks. Don’t let workplace interruptions go unchecked—reach out to us to learn how you can ensure your rights are protected and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your situation and start building a strong case for your claim.