Facts

On August 18, 2021, Chad Harris, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated, brought a putative class action complaint against Southern New Hampshire University, alleging various Labor Code violations. The class included all persons who are or have been employed by Southern New Hampshire University in California as part-time adjunct instructors from February 21, 2017, through July 30, 2022.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff alleged that defendant failed to: pay for all hours worked, permit and authorize legally-compliant rest and meal breaks, pay premium pay for missed rest and meal breaks, issue accurate itemized wage statements, pay overtime compensation, pay all wages owed upon discharge from employment, and reimburse for necessary business expenses for its California employee during the relevant time period. Further, plaintiff contended that defendant engaged in unfair, unlawful, or fraudulent business practices in violation of the California Business & Professions Code as a result of these violations.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Defendant denied all contentions.

Settlement Discussions

On June 1, 2022, the parties engaged in mediation under the guidance of an experienced wage and hour neutral, Tripper Ortman.

Result

Southern New Hampshire University agreed to pay a non-reversionary $1,475,000 settlement.