Football is synonymous with cheerleaders. All 32 National Football League franchises have a team of girls who cheer each Sunday.
Perhaps the most famous group of cheerleaders is the Raiderettes of the Oakland Raiders. However, the future of this squad could be in jeopardy, as the group recently sued the organization for wage theft and unfair employment practices.
According to the San Jose Mercury News, the lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court claims that the team withholds pay until after the season is completed and does not pay for all hours worked. Also, the lawsuit claims that the cheerleaders are forced to pay for business expenses and are charged fines if the wrong poms-poms are brought to practice or the wrong workout clothing is worn to rehearsals.
Wage Theft Prevention Act
If the allegations are true, the Raiders may be in some trouble, as California passed the Wage Theft Prevention Act in the beginning of 2012, which strengthened the state’s labor codes. The following are some of the requirements put in place by the legislation:
Workers have to receive the required notice at the time of hire of the rate of pay, whether it be by the hour, shift, day, week, salary or commission
Regular paydays need to be designated by the employer as required by law
Employers need to inform employees of the intent to claim allowances as part of the minimum wage, such as meals or lodging
With the Oakland Raiders cheerleaders suing the football team, it will be interesting to see if other squads who also feel they are unfairly compensated follow suit. Of course, every situation will be different since wage laws vary on a state-by-state basis, but this could set off a chain reaction among NFL cheerleaders.
Short Form Merger: Streamlining the Process for Businesses
Merging two companies is a complex legal and business transaction. A short form merger, in which an acquiring company merges with a subsidiary corporation, offers a more streamlined process. However, like all M&A transactions, it is important to understand the legal nuances and proper due diligence in mergers and acquisitions. What Is a Short Form […]
Tariff Response Options for Small Businesses Facing Financial Distress
The Trump Administration’s new tariffs are having an oversized impact on small businesses, which already tend to operate on razor thin margins. Many businesses have been forced to raise prices, find new suppliers, lay off staff, and delay growth plans. For businesses facing even more dire financial circumstances, there are additional tariff response options, including […]
Common Causes of Partnership Disputes and How to Resolve Them
Business partnerships, much like marriages, function exceptionally well when partners are aligned but can become challenging when disagreements arise. Partnership disputes often stem from conflicts over business strategy, financial management, and unclear role definitions among partners. Understanding Business Partnership Conflicts Partnership conflicts place significant stress on businesses, making proactive measures essential. Partnerships should establish detailed […]
Businesses Are Facing Financial Headwinds—A Practical Guide
*** The original article was featured on Bloomberg Tax, April 28, 2025 — As a tax attorney who spends much of my time helping people and companies who have large, unresolved issues with the IRS or one or more state tax departments, it often occurs to me that the best service that I can provide […]
President Trump's Termination of Member Gwynne Wilcox
On January 28, 2025, the Trump Administration terminated Gwynne Wilcox from her position as a Member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB or the Board). Gwynne Wilcox, a union side lawyer for Levy Ratner, was confirmed to the Board for an original term in 2021 and confirmed again for a successive five-year term expiring […]
Breach of Contract Explained: Types and Consequences
Breach of contract disputes are the most common type of business litigation. Therefore, nearly all New York and New Jersey businesses will likely have to deal with a contract dispute at least once. Understanding when to file a breach of contract lawsuit and how long you have to sue for breach of contract is essential […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
