Business Fortune
In order to protect a vulnerable and sometimes disregarded workforce, a law company that specializes in defending the rights of caregivers is essential. Unpaid overtime, hazardous working conditions, wage fraud, and even violence are commonplace for caregivers, many of whom are women or immigrants. Without legal assistance, these problems can go unchecked. By assisting domestic workers in understanding their rights, recovering unpaid pay, and holding employers accountable under laws such as California's Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights, such a legal firm guarantees that these workers are not mistreated. Without legal representation, caregivers may go unpunished, which might result in many labor breaches, psychological and financial distress, and a devaluing of vital caregiving duties. In addition to helping people get justice, legal counsel raises labor standards in the caregiving sector. Rehwald Peterson, a California-based legal firm devoted to defending caregivers' rights and obtaining unpaid minimum and overtime wages, can help in this situation.
A Law Firm Dedicated To Representing Caregivers
Rehwald Peterson's attorneys have a proven track record of assisting caregivers in obtaining the compensation that their employers are unwilling to pay. In California, caregivers are among the lowest paid and most industrious workers. The Domestic Worker Bill of Rights, or "DWBR," was passed by the California Legislature in 2013 to guarantee overtime pay for caregivers who put in more than nine hours per day or more than forty-five hours per week. Even yet, few caregivers earn overtime pay, and the majorities are paid much less than the minimum wage. Rehwald Peterson has assisted over 400 caregivers in recouping their overpaid overtime and minimum wages over the last seven years. Take action if you believe you have not received your minimum or overtime pay.
Rehwald Peterson offers caregivers unmatched legal assistance. Rehwald Peterson Employment Attorneys is the best option for you because of their many happy clients, peer esteem, and Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent® Rating.
Rehwald Peterson Law Services
At CaregiverOvertime.com, they are dedicated to protecting the rights of caregivers and domestic workers across California. Rehwald Peterson’s experienced legal team specializes in advocating for fair treatment and compensation, offering a range of services to address your unique challenges:
California In-Home Caregiver
If you work as a 24-hour caregiver in California, you are likely entitled to overtime pay, especially if you are paid a day rate. This applies whether you are hired directly by a patient or through an agency. Most caregivers should receive overtime for hours worked beyond 9 in a day or 45 in a week.
Starting January 2024, caregivers must be paid a minimum of $504 per day. The first 9 hours can be paid at the minimum wage of $16 per hour, totaling $144, with overtime for the remaining 15 hours at $24 per hour, amounting to $360. Many caregivers currently earn between $200 and $350 a day, which indicates a potential claim.
For instance, if you earn $270 per day, your unpaid overtime claim could be $675 daily, totaling $3,375 weekly. This adds up to over $175,000 annually in unpaid overtime, not including damages, penalties, or interest. Rehwald Peterson has successfully assisted many caregivers with claims exceeding $500,000.
Caregivers can file claims going back 4 years, potentially longer due to COVID-related court closures. If you have concerns, visit Rehwald Peterson’s website at www.caregiverovertime.com/ concerns for more information on common caregiver claims.
Facility Caregiver
Caregivers in Residential Care Facilities play a crucial role in supporting elderly and disabled individuals, often working long hours but frequently facing low pay. In California, caregivers are protected from wage theft and must receive at least the minimum wage, set at $16.00 per hour in 2024. They are entitled to overtime pay for hours worked beyond eight per day or 40 per week, and double time for hours over 12 in a day.
For 24-hour shifts, caregivers must be paid at least $608.00 daily, including various rates for different hours worked. Many facilities incorrectly pay salaries instead of hourly wages, which can lead to below-minimum wage compensation. Additionally, some owners mistakenly classify caregivers as independent contractors, which is rarely permissible under California law due to the level of control exercised over their work.
Importantly, all caregivers, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to wage protection under California law, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work.
Sexual Harassment Legal Support for Caregivers
As a caregiver, providing compassionate care is your priority, but many face sexual harassment in private homes, where protective measures are often lacking. Complaints can feel risky, as victims may have to confront their harasser directly. Rehwald Peterson understands these unique challenges and is here to help. Their experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring a safe work environment. California’s Fair Employment & Housing Act safeguards caregivers from sexual harassment. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone—there are legal options available. Rehwald Peterson’s compassionate attorneys are ready to listen, guide, and advocate for you to seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Kevin Rehwald & Lauren Peterson | Co - Founders
