An overtime class action lawsuit filed by a former employee alleges Staples failed to compensate nonexempt employees for overtime work. The case highlights ongoing concerns about employee rights and corporate labor practices and leaves Staples under legal scrutiny.

Case: Maraya Lumadue v. Staples, the Office Superstore LLC

Court: US District Court for the Central District of California

Case No.: 2:25-cv-00028

The Plaintiff: Maraya Lumadue v. Staples, the Office Superstore LLC

Maraya Lumadue, a former Staples employee, initiated the overtime class action lawsuit. Lumadue claims that Staples required employees to perform tasks off-the-clock, including assisting customers before clocking in for their shift and undergoing bag checks after clocking out. These practices allegedly led to unpaid overtime and violated California labor laws.

The Defendant: Maraya Lumadue v. Staples

Staples, a major retailer with numerous locations across California, is accused of systemic labor violations. The company allegedly failed to provide proper meal periods and rest breaks. The plaintiff also claims that Staples did not compensate workers for completing mandatory tasks outside of scheduled hours, and neglected to reimburse workers for job-related expenses including uniform maintenance and personal cell phone use.

The Case: Maraya Lumadue v. Staples

The lawsuit addresses alleged widespread labor violations affecting nonexempt Staples employees in California. Key allegations include:

Requiring employees to work off-the-clock before and after shifts.
Failing to provide workers with legally mandated meal periods and rest breaks.
Lack of compensation for time spent on mandatory tasks such as bag checks.
Failure to reimburse employees for work-related expenses.
Inaccurate wage statements

If proven, the various allegations represent significant violations of California labor laws.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Labor Law Violations at Your Workplace?

If you believe your employer is not complying with labor laws—such as failing to pay overtime, not providing required breaks, or not reimbursing work-related expenses—it's important to document these instances and consult an experienced employment law attorney.

When you need help protecting your rights in the workplace, contact Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik DeBlouw LLP. Experienced and knowledgeable employment law attorneys are ready to assist you at one of their various law firm offices in Riverside, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Chicago.