Bernardo Cruz Blanco has filed a significant lawsuit against Verdant Landscaping, Inc., alleging numerous violations of California labor laws. The complaint was filed on January 30, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. Cruz Blanco claims that Verdant Landscaping systematically engaged in wage abuse practices that contravene several provisions of the California Labor Code.
The lawsuit, brought forth by Bernardo Cruz Blanco individually and on behalf of other similarly situated employees under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), accuses Verdant Landscaping and its executives of failing to comply with various labor regulations. These include not paying minimum and overtime wages, not providing required meal and rest breaks, and failing to issue accurate wage statements. The plaintiff asserts that these actions have been ongoing for at least four years prior to the filing date.
Cruz Blanco's employment with Verdant Landscaping as a maintenance assistant spanned from February 1, 2024, to June 25, 2024. During this period, he alleges that he was subject to unlawful working conditions such as being denied proper meal and rest periods due to demanding work schedules imposed by the company. "Defendants regularly and systematically scheduled Plaintiff’s meal breaks after his fifth hour of work," states the complaint. Furthermore, it is alleged that there were no systems in place for reporting missed breaks or recovering lost wages.
The legal action seeks various forms of relief including compensatory damages for unpaid wages and penalties under PAGA. The complaint also demands injunctive relief to prevent further violations by Verdant Landscaping. Cruz Blanco is asking for reimbursement for business expenses incurred during his employment which were not compensated by the employer.
In addition to financial compensation, Cruz Blanco requests an award covering attorneys' fees and costs associated with bringing this action forward. The plaintiff's legal representation is provided by KJT Law Group LLP with attorneys Christopher Adams, Levon S. Yepremian, Vache A. Thomassian, and Caspar Jivalagian spearheading the case.
The case is being overseen by Judge L. Ayala under Case No.: 25CV457835 in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara.