San Francisco Wage Theft Lawyer

Experiencing wage theft can be a deeply unsettling ordeal, especially when it feels like your hard work isn’t being respected or fairly compensated. At Greenberg Gross LLP, we understand the significant emotional and financial strain that wage theft inflicts on your life. Our team of dedicated wage theft lawyers in San Francisco is here to support you through this challenging time. We are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Wage theft occurs when employers fail to pay employees the full wages they are owed, whether through unpaid overtime, withheld tips, or other illegal practices. If you’ve been a victim of wage theft, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

At Greenberg Gross LLP, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge and support needed to reclaim their earnings and dignity. You don’t have to face wage theft alone. Let us help you restore your financial security and peace of mind.

Types of Wage Theft Greenberg Gross Commonly Sees in San Francisco


At Greenberg Gross LLP, we see a variety of wage theft cases in San Francisco, each reflecting the diverse ways employers can unlawfully withhold earnings from their employees. Our firm is well-versed in handling these complex cases and is committed to ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Here are some common types of wage theft cases we encounter:

Unpaid Overtime

Employees are often entitled to overtime pay when they work more than a certain number of hours in a week. However, some employers avoid paying this by either not tracking overtime hours or by misclassifying employees to exempt them from overtime pay. This practice is a direct violation of labor laws and deprives employees of the fair compensation they are entitled to for their extra work.

Misclassification of Employees

Misclassification occurs when employers label employees as independent contractors or exempt workers to avoid paying benefits, overtime, and other wages. This can include classifying hourly workers as salaried employees or independent contractors, denying them the protections and wages they rightfully deserve. Misclassification not only affects wages but also impacts benefits and job security.

Illegal Deductions

Illegal deductions from paychecks can take many forms, such as charging employees for uniforms, equipment, or other business expenses. These deductions can significantly reduce an employee’s earnings and are often unlawful. Employers may also deduct wages as a form of punishment or to cover losses, which is illegal and unethical.

Failure to Pay Minimum Wage

Every employee is entitled to at least the minimum wage as mandated by state and federal laws. Unfortunately, some employers pay wages below this threshold, exploiting their workers and violating labor laws. This practice is particularly common in industries with a high number of low-wage workers, such as retail, hospitality, and agriculture.

Withheld Tips

In service industries, tips can constitute a significant portion of an employee’s income. Some employers illegally withhold tips, either by not distributing them properly or by using them to cover business expenses. This is a clear violation of labor laws designed to protect tipped employees’ earnings.

Off-the-Clock Work

Employers sometimes require employees to perform tasks before clocking in or after clocking out, such as setting up workstations or cleaning up. This off-the-clock work is often unpaid, violating labor laws that mandate compensation for all hours worked.These practices not only violate state and federal labor laws but also inflict serious financial and emotional stress on employees.

Our team of skilled wage theft lawyers in San Francisco is dedicated to combating these injustices. We work tirelessly to hold employers accountable and ensure that our clients receive the full compensation they are owed. If you have experienced any form of wage theft, our firm is here to guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.

What Should I Do If I’m a Victim of Wage Theft?


Being a victim of wage theft can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to take prompt action to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Here are essential steps to follow if you believe you are experiencing wage theft in San Francisco:

Document Everything

Start by meticulously documenting all your hours worked and wages received. Keep a detailed record of your work schedule, including start and end times, breaks, and any overtime hours. Collect copies of your pay stubs, timesheets, and any other relevant documents that can support your case. Accurate records are vital in proving wage theft.

Review Employment Contracts and Pay Stubs

Carefully review your employment contract, pay stubs, and any other agreements or communications from your employer. Look for discrepancies between what you were promised and what you are being paid. Pay special attention to overtime pay, deductions, and any other irregularities that might indicate wage theft.

Contact a Labor Rights Attorney

Consulting with a labor rights attorney is a critical step. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process. At Greenberg Gross LLP, our experienced wage theft lawyers are dedicated to helping you fight for the compensation you deserve. We provide the expertise and support you need to navigate this challenging situation.

File a Complaint with the Appropriate Labor Board

You can file a complaint with the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) or the U.S. Department of Labor if you believe your employer has violated wage laws. These agencies can investigate your claims and take action against employers who engage in wage theft. Filing a complaint is a formal way to initiate an investigation and seek justice.

Act Promptly

Time is of the essence in wage theft cases. There are statutes of limitations that limit the time you have to file a claim or lawsuit. Acting promptly will not only help protect your legal rights but also increase the likelihood of recovering your lost wages.

Seek Professional Legal Advice

Navigating wage theft claims can be complex, and professional legal advice can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney will help you gather evidence, represent you in negotiations or court, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Protect Your Rights and Seek Justice

Remember, you don’t have to face wage theft alone. By taking these steps and seeking professional legal guidance, you can protect your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Greenberg Gross is here to support you every step of the way, providing the expertise and dedication needed to hold your employer accountable and reclaim your hard-earned wages.

If you suspect you are a victim of wage theft, don’t hesitate to reach out to Greenberg Gross. We are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you achieve the compensation and peace of mind you deserve.

How Greenberg Gross Can Help Fight For You

At Greenberg Gross LLP, we are steadfast in our commitment to defending workers’ rights and fighting against wage theft. Our seasoned team of attorneys in San Francisco brings unparalleled expertise and dedication to each case, ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

If you are facing wage theft, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Our firm is here to provide strong, effective legal representation to help you reclaim your lost wages and protect your rights.

Take the first step towards justice today. Contact Greenberg Gross LLP for a consultation and let us stand with you in your fight. Your hard work deserves to be honored, and we’re here to ensure it is.