All good, insighful answers. I have a few more, but some additional information could help.
1. How did you get this job? Through an agency, friend, ad? Did you sign an employment contract, and if so, was it drafted by an attorney? If you do have a contract, you may (emphasize MAY) have a stronger recovery option b/c it would be not only a labor violation not to pay you but a breach of contract issue as well.
2. How long have you had the job? How long has it been since you were paid?
3. Who's responsible for paying you? Client, client's family, some form of proxy or fiduciary?
4. What discussions have been had, or has it just been a refusal to pay w/o any explanation?
What I would do is secretly find someplace else to live; plan to leave ASAP, getting whatever help you can to move. And do it all in one move as you might be locked out if you have to return repeatedly to get your things. It wouldn't hurt to photo your things as well in the event the family or client suspect you will be leaving.
The only notice I would give would be to alert APS and ensure that it's aware the client will be left w/o care once you leave. That way you're not blamed for any kind of abandonment of a vulnerable adult. As soon as APS is involved, leave.
You might be able to get a free consult with a labor attorney who specializes in plaintiff actions, if only to determine the strength of your case.
Is the client competent? Did he/she hire you or did family hire you? I agree with Jeanne's response but I would add you should call the family or county office of aging and let them know you are leaving.
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1. How did you get this job? Through an agency, friend, ad? Did you sign an employment contract, and if so, was it drafted by an attorney? If you do have a contract, you may (emphasize MAY) have a stronger recovery option b/c it would be not only a labor violation not to pay you but a breach of contract issue as well.
2. How long have you had the job? How long has it been since you were paid?
3. Who's responsible for paying you? Client, client's family, some form of proxy or fiduciary?
4. What discussions have been had, or has it just been a refusal to pay w/o any explanation?
What I would do is secretly find someplace else to live; plan to leave ASAP, getting whatever help you can to move. And do it all in one move as you might be locked out if you have to return repeatedly to get your things. It wouldn't hurt to photo your things as well in the event the family or client suspect you will be leaving.
The only notice I would give would be to alert APS and ensure that it's aware the client will be left w/o care once you leave. That way you're not blamed for any kind of abandonment of a vulnerable adult. As soon as APS is involved, leave.
You might be able to get a free consult with a labor attorney who specializes in plaintiff actions, if only to determine the strength of your case.
Good luck.
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