Los Angeles Missed Rest Break Lawyers

Matern Law Group represents Los Angeles workers who have been denied the rest breaks they are legally entitled to under California law. Contact our rest break lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.

Los Angeles Meal & Rest Breaks > Los Angeles Rest Breaks

Denial of Los Angeles Rest Break Protections Comes in Many Forms

California law sets clear requirements for rest breaks, and violations range from breaks that are shortened or missed entirely to pressure from supervisors to remain on duty during rest breaks. Employment lawyers at Matern Law Group have handled many of these cases.

In Los Angeles, the laws regarding employee rest breaks are designed to ensure workers have adequate breaks during their workday for rest. These regulations are some of the most employee-friendly in the United States and are enforced by the California Department of Industrial Relations.

Here’s a summary of the key provisions:

Los Angeles Rest Breaks: Los Angeles employees are entitled to a 10-minute paid rest break if they work at least a 3.5-hour shift. The law mandates that workers should have a rest break in the middle of their work period, to the extent that is practical. For a standard 8-hour shift, this typically means two 10-minute rest breaks.
Non-Compliance: Employers who fail to provide these mandated breaks must pay the employee one additional hour of pay at the employee’s regular rate of compensation for each workday that the rest break was not authorized and permitted.
Exemptions: Certain exemptions apply, such as for Los Angeles workers in specific industries or those covered by collective bargaining agreements that stipulate different break rules.
Suitability: Los Angeles employers are also required to provide suitable resting facilities during work hours in an area separate from the bathroom facilities.

California’s labor laws are updated frequently, and there may be additional rules or clarifications provided by specific industries or local jurisdictions. It’s essential for both Los Angeles employers and employees to stay informed about the latest regulations and how they apply to specific situations. An employment law firm can help workers explore their options under the law and protect their rights.

Noncompliant rest breaks represent a recoverable wage loss under California law. If you believe you’ve been wrongly denied your required Los Angeles rest breaks, you may be entitled to compensation.

The lawyers at Matern Law Group work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover for you.

Call us at 310-987-4226 or fill out the form on this page. One of our missed rest break lawyers can discuss your case with you and determine the best course of action.

Our Approach

Our practices are guided by integrity. We’ll protect what you deserve.

We work tirelessly and fight tenaciously to hold Los Angeles employers who abuse or otherwise do not respect break laws accountable.

If you’ve experienced the violations described above, call us for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 10-minute rest break have to be paid?

Yes. California law requires that rest breaks be paid, meaning your employer cannot deduct that time from your wages.

Can my employer require me to answer my phone or carry a radio during my rest break?

California law provides that rest breaks must be duty-free, so an employer generally cannot require you to remain on call during that time.

What happens if my employer denies rest breaks regularly over a long period?

Under California Labor Code Section 226.7, your employer owes you one additional hour of pay for each workday that a compliant rest break is not authorized and permitted, regardless of how many breaks were missed in that single day. This premium must be paid at your regular rate of compensation, which includes non-discretionary bonuses and commissions, not just base hourly pay.

Over months or years, these daily penalties can accumulate into a very significant amount of back pay.

Does Matern Law Group handle rest break cases for workers in any industry?

Yes. Matern Law Group represents workers across industries throughout Los Angeles, including retail, food service, healthcare, and beyond.

What does it cost to have Matern Law Group evaluate my rest break case?

Matern Law Group offers initial consultations at no charge. If we take your case, we only collect a fee if the case results in a recovery.

Did You Know?

Denial of Los Angeles Rest Breaks

The law mandates that workers should have a rest break in the middle of their work period, to the extent practical. For a standard 8-hour shift, this typically means two 10-minute breaks.

Shortened or No Breaks in Los Angeles

Los Angeles employers who do not authorize and permit these mandated breaks must pay the employee one additional hour of pay at the employee's regular rate of compensation for each workday that the break was not provided.

Is It Illegal, or Just Unfair?

Legal cases can be lengthy, complicated, and confusing, but you don’t have to take on the system all by yourself. If you believe someone has violated your individual rights, or the rights of a large group of people in your community, we can help you find the right course of action.

Complete the form below or call: 310-987-4226 for a FREE consultation today.

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