A former employee has taken legal action against a Delaware corporation, alleging wrongful termination and other employment violations. The complaint was filed by the plaintiff on September 11, 2024, in Ventura Superior Court against Backbone Labs, Inc.
The plaintiff, identified as KOCH, claims that he was hired by Backbone Labs as a Lead Product Design Engineer on January 1, 2023. He was promised an annual salary of $200,000 along with stock options and benefits. According to the complaint, KOCH performed his job competently and diligently without any disciplinary issues. However, in March 2024, when KOCH informed Backbone Labs that he and his wife were expecting a baby in May and inquired about paternity leave policies, the company provided minimal information. On May 12, 2024, KOCH's son was born. The next day, he notified Backbone Labs about the birth and requested to add his son to the company's health insurance while also providing an estimated return date.
KOCH remained on leave from May 13 through June 17 but occasionally performed work for Backbone Labs during this period. Upon returning to work on June 17, KOCH faced animosity from management; meetings were postponed and communication was limited. Just one day after his return from leave on June 18, KOCH was terminated by Backbone Labs.
The complaint outlines several causes of action against Backbone Labs. Firstly, it alleges retaliation under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), claiming that KOCH's request for family care leave was a substantial motivating reason for his termination. Secondly, it accuses Backbone Labs of failing to reimburse necessary employment expenses such as internet and cell phone costs as required under California Labor Code Section 2802(a). Thirdly, it claims that the company failed to pay final wages immediately upon termination as mandated by California Labor Code Section 201. Fourthly, it alleges that Backbone Labs did not provide accurate itemized wage statements in violation of California Labor Law Section 226.
Additionally, the complaint includes a cause of action for unfair business practices under California Business and Professions Code Section 17200. It asserts that these actions have caused tangible injury to KOCH.
In terms of relief sought from the court, the plaintiff is asking for general and special damages including liquidated damages; restitution for unfair business practices; waiting time penalties; punitive damages; loss of future wages and earning capacity; civil penalties as allowed by law; prejudgment interest; attorney’s fees and costs according to proof; and any other relief deemed proper by the court.
The case is being handled by Charlton Weeks LLP with Lisa A. Doran serving as the attorney for the plaintiff. The case ID is 2024CUOE030289.