NORFOLK, Va. — A lawsuit filed by a woman who says she's a former Sentara employee is sparking interest in the community.
Jasmine Ward claims Sentara owes her money for working through breaks the company automatically deducted from her hours worked.
“That practice is one that just invites a problem," said labor attorney Ray Hogge.
Watch: Former Sentara employee files lawsuit over alleged unpaid wages
Hogge has represented both employers and employees in disputes. He tells News 3 despite the risk the policy poses, it's something a lot of companies do because it’s easy. It’s not something he recommends, though.
“It’s better to have the employees clock in and clock out because you’re much less likely to have these issues come up," said Hogge.
On News 3’s Facebook post about the lawsuit, many people have commented that the auto-deduction policy is common practice at hospitals.
Hogge recommends that regardless of where you work, you notify your employer if you feel you’re not being properly paid. If you don’t say anything, then file a lawsuit, your employer could argue they didn’t know you weren’t being properly paid. He also recommends you document the hours you work.
Ward’s lawsuit also claims the way Sentara calculates what time an employee clocks in and out and when an employee is allowed to clock in and out are issues.
In a statement, Sentara says, in part, "Due to ongoing litigation, we are unable to comment on the specifics of this case. However, we can affirm that Sentara policies comply with all wage and hour laws.”
Sentara's full statement is below:
"Due to ongoing litigation, we are unable to comment on the specifics of this case. However, we can affirm that Sentara policies comply with all wage and hour laws. We deeply value our colleagues and are committed to supporting both their well-being and their rights in the workplace. We strongly encourage employees to take their full meal breaks to rest and recharge during their shifts. In instances where patient care responsibilities prevent a full break, we have policies and procedures in place to ensure those situations are appropriately addressed. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality care to our patients while maintaining a supportive and respectful work environment for our colleagues."
