Jared W. Speier

Stradling represented a global retailer in a wage and hour class action involving over 500 distribution center employees. The plaintiff alleged that all of the employees’ wage statements did not properly reflect COVID-19 hazard pay and that their sick and vacation time was not paid at the correct rate. These claims resulted in liability in excess of $3.6 million. We finalized an early settlement after a full day mediation for significantly less than the client’s exposure. Preliminary approval of the settlement is expected shortly with final approval to follow in early 2023.

Represented a global health food brand in connection with a complaint filed on behalf of four ranch hands at the client’s ranch facility in Goleta, California. The complaint alleged that plaintiffs were not afforded their meal and rest periods, failed to receive minimum wages, and other wage and hour claims.  Plaintiffs also alleged that they complained about threats of violence and were terminated as a result. These allegations resulted in significant financial and reputational exposure to the client. Even so, we were able to finalize an early settlement after a full day of mediation for less than the client’s authority while avoiding any reputational risks. 

Represented a global retailer in connection with a class action alleging that several hundred employees at its distribution facility were required to undergo bag checks off the clock. These allegations resulted in a potential exposure in excess of $13 million. We finalized an early settlement after a full day mediation with for less than 5% of the client’s exposure.