Luis A. Argueta, a former employee of a California-based healthcare provider, has filed a class action lawsuit against his former employer, alleging systemic violations of labor laws. The complaint was filed on October 18, 2024, in the Superior Court of California for the County of Santa Clara by Argueta and other similarly situated employees against Hawthorne Holdings, LLC, doing business as White Blossom Care Center.
Argueta's lawsuit accuses Hawthorne Holdings of numerous violations of the California Labor Code and Business and Professions Code. According to the complaint, these include failing to provide accurate wage statements, not paying minimum and overtime wages for all hours worked, neglecting to offer off-duty meal and rest periods, failing to reimburse business expenses, and engaging in unfair business practices. Argueta alleges that during his employment from October 2023 until February 5, 2024, he was subjected to these unlawful practices as an hourly nurse assistant.
The complaint outlines various causes of action under specific sections of the California Labor Code. For instance, it claims that Hawthorne Holdings failed to pay overtime wages as required by Labor Code §§ 510 and 1194 and did not provide proper meal breaks per Labor Code § 226.7. Furthermore, Argueta asserts that the company engaged in unfair competition by violating Business and Professions Code § 17200 et seq., thereby gaining an unjust advantage over competitors who comply with labor laws.
Argueta seeks several forms of relief from the court on behalf of himself and other affected employees. These include certification of the proposed class action; appointment of himself as class representative; appointment of his legal counsel as class counsel; damages or penalties under various sections of the California Labor Code; restitution for unfair business practices; civil penalties under PAGA (Private Attorneys General Act); attorneys' fees; costs; and any further relief deemed just by the court.
The case is being handled by attorney Justin Lo from Work Lawyers PC. The case number is 24CV449833 and it will be presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California for Santa Clara County.