When employees experience similar mistreatment at the hands of their employers, they may wonder whether they’re alone or if others are facing the same challenges. In many cases, workers who have been wronged can pursue justice together by filing a class action lawsuit. This legal tool allows a group of employees to combine their claims into a single case when they’ve been harmed by a common employer’s practice or policy.
In California, employment class actions are often used in wage and hour disputes. For example, if a company has a policy of denying workers their legally required meal or rest breaks, misclassifying employees to avoid paying overtime or failing to reimburse business expenses, a class action may be appropriate. Rather than each worker filing an individual claim, they can unite in one lawsuit to pursue shared relief. This process is more efficient and often more powerful than going it alone.
Moving forward
To file a class action, a group must meet specific legal requirements. There must be enough employees with similar claims, and those claims must raise common legal or factual issues. Courts will also evaluate whether the individuals bringing the suit (known as the class representatives) can adequately represent the entire group’s interests. Once certified by the court, the case can proceed on behalf of all similarly affected employees.
Class actions don’t just seek to recover unpaid wages or damages—they can also drive systemic change within a company or a number of companies. When employers are held accountable through large-scale litigation, they’re more likely to change illegal practices moving forward. That makes class actions a powerful tool for promoting fairness and preventing future harm.
It’s important to note that class actions are not the right approach in every situation. Some cases may be better handled through individual claims, especially when the facts are unique or the harm is isolated. Speaking with a skilled legal team that understands California labor laws and class action procedures can help workers understand their rights and determine the best path forward.