A class action lawsuit has been filed against a California plumbing company, alleging widespread violations of wage and hour laws affecting over 100 employees. The complaint was lodged by German Gil Mendez on November 25, 2024, in the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento, targeting D & J Plumbing, Inc.
German Gil Mendez, a former hourly employee of D & J Plumbing, Inc., claims that the company failed to pay for all hours worked, including overtime. He accuses the defendant of violating several provisions of the California Labor Code by not providing timely meal and rest breaks, failing to reimburse business expenses, and issuing inaccurate wage statements. According to Mendez's complaint, these practices were part of a broader pattern of unlawful business operations designed to enhance profits at the expense of workers' rights. "Defendant has knowingly and with conscious disregard of the law refused to pay Class Members all wages owed," asserts Mendez in his filing.
The plaintiff further alleges that D & J Plumbing did not maintain adequate records or provide accurate itemized wage statements as required by law. This includes failing to pay minimum wages and wages due upon termination promptly. The lawsuit highlights instances where employees were not allowed proper rest periods or cool-down breaks despite working in high-temperature environments. Additionally, it is claimed that employees had to use personal phones and vehicles for work purposes without reimbursement.
Mendez seeks various forms of relief from the court on behalf of himself and other affected employees. These include compensatory damages for unpaid wages and penalties for missed meal and rest breaks. The suit also demands restitution for business expenses incurred by employees using their resources for work-related tasks. Furthermore, Mendez requests injunctive relief to prevent future violations by D & J Plumbing and an award covering attorneys' fees and costs associated with the litigation.
Representing German Gil Mendez is attorney Nazo Koulloukian from Koul Law Firm, APC. The case is being heard under Case No. 24CV024048 in front of the Superior Court judges in Sacramento County.