California law requires non-exempt employees to be paid for all hours worked. With the advent of smart phones and other portable electronic devices it is easier than ever for employers to stay connected with employees after work hours. However, just because an employer issues an employee a cell phone doesn’t mean the employer can ask the employee to work for free. Requiring an employee to respond to emails or text messages after working hours constitutes time worked and possibly overtime worked that the employer may be obligated to pay the employee for.
If your employer is requiring you to respond to emails or text messages outside working hours without compensation, you may be eligible to recover lost wages. Contact the Law Offices of G. Samuel Cleaver by email or phone at 323-648-6676 for a free consultation.