ATLANTA — A former employee for a cast member of the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” reality tv show recently filed an unpaid overtime lawsuit against the star claiming he repeatedly asked for his duly owed overtime wages but was denied. The plaintiff’s suit claims he worked for the defendant from August 2013 until his termination in February 2016 during which time he routinely worked well over 40 hours per week.
The suit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, claims the plaintiff worked 10 to 20-hour days for seven-days a week as a caterer and events coordinator for almost three years without overtime wages. Some of his projects included planning the defendant’s wedding, taping nightly broadcasts, and planning conventions as the company’s “production coordinator.”
While the complaint does not specifically list the plaintiff’s income and lost wages from his time of employment, the potential payout could be substantial given the time spent with his former employer and the amount of hours worked. Additionally, the plaintiff could be entitled to interest on his unpaid overtime wages, attorney’s fees, and penalties if the court determines the defendant intentionally violated minimum wage and overtime laws.
Federal Overtime Pay Laws
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), only certain classes of employees can be considered overtime exempt and paid a salary. However, even when employees are put on salary, they may be entitled to overtime if the amount of hours worked exceeds what is considered reasonable to complete a project.
Furthermore, the employee must perform certain work duties consistent with what the Department of Labor expects in order to be overtime exempt. Often times, employers simply give their workers the title of “manager” or “supervisor” as a means to skirt paying workers overtime.
Salaried employees believing they were misclassified as overtime exempt should strongly consider contacting an experienced overtime pay lawyer to discuss their legal options. The FLSA gives employees the power to hold their employers responsible for their illegal conduct and recover their unpaid overtime wages.
Overtime Pay Lawyers
Call (855) 754-2795 or complete the Free Unpaid Overtime Case Review form on the top right of this page if you believe that your wage rights are being violated under the FLSA. Our top-rated team of unpaid wage lawyers will evaluate your situation to determine your best course of action to help you seek justice.
Our office will also determine if it is in your best interest to file a lawsuit against your employer. Because strict time limitations apply for filing these types of claims, we advise you contact our experienced unpaid overtime wage attorneys at your earliest convenience and preserve your legal rights.