Now what do I do? Is this a case of failed due diligence on the part of the plaintiffs attorney?

You will likely receive a communication about the settlement very soon. The court will be asked to preliminarily approve the settlement, which...

The minimum allowed salary for a postdoctoral researcher in a university

You will have to be paid at least the minimum wage, which, depending on the city you work in may be more than California's minimum wage of $10.00...

Do I have a case?

You likely have a number of causes of action that can asserted against your employer, including wage and hour violations (you must be paid to wait...

The test for who is and who is not an independent contractor is factually driven by some fairly well established legal principals. However, I will...

My employer deducts money from my paycheck to cover auto insurance, gas, and workers comp insurance. Is that legal?

No. Your employer cannot pass the costs of doing business on to you.

Is this legal and Should i seek a lawyer?

Assuming you and your fellow employees are non-exempt employees (if you are paid by the hour, you probably are and even if you are paid a salary,...

I know there is 72 hour law about getting final check to employees. How do I enforce this and get anything from them failing?

You will be entitled to waiting time penalties -- one day's pay for every day that you do not receive your final check, up to a maximum of 30 days....

Can they take me off salary

Most likely, yes. Unless you have an agreement that provides for a certain level of remuneration.

Can an employer deny you wages because of an error in your time card

No. An employer must pay for all hours worked. A malfunctioning time clock is no excuse.

I get a base salary of 20000 a year for working 80hr a week.

Based on the facts provided, your employer may be violating the CA Labor Code as well at the applicable Wage Order. You should be paid by the hour...