A class action lawsuit has been filed against a prominent landscaping company in Southern California, alleging numerous labor law violations that could affect many of its employees. The complaint was filed by Jose Manuel Avina Vazquez on February 24, 2025, in the Superior Court of California for the County of Ventura against Mariposa Landscapes, Inc. Vazquez claims that the company failed to provide legally mandated rest and meal breaks, pay overtime wages, maintain accurate payroll records, and reimburse business expenses among other allegations.
Jose Manuel Avina Vazquez, a former employee of Mariposa Landscapes, Inc., has initiated this legal battle not only for himself but also on behalf of all similarly situated employees. He alleges that during his tenure as a landscaper with the company from August 15, 2021, to August 13, 2023, he was subjected to multiple labor law violations. Vazquez's complaint highlights that he and other employees were often required to work beyond their scheduled hours without receiving appropriate compensation or overtime pay. "Defendants failed to pay for all hours worked," states the complaint, adding that employees were denied their rightful rest and meal breaks as per California labor laws.
Vazquez further accuses Mariposa Landscapes of failing to reimburse necessary business expenses incurred by employees while performing their duties. He mentions spending approximately $30 monthly on water due to the lack of provisions from the employer and not being compensated for mileage when traveling between job sites. Additionally, he claims wrongful termination following his requests for family leave under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) to care for his daughter with Prader-Willi syndrome after surgery. Vazquez argues that his dismissal was retaliatory and discriminatory.
The lawsuit seeks several forms of relief from the court. Vazquez is demanding unpaid wages for missed breaks and overtime work along with penalties for inaccurate wage statements. He also seeks reimbursement for business expenses and damages related to unlawful termination and discrimination based on family responsibilities. Furthermore, Vazquez is pursuing civil penalties under California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) for these alleged violations.
Representing Jose Manuel Avina Vazquez is attorney Farrah Mirabel from the Law Offices of Farrah Mirabel based in Los Angeles. The case is identified under Case No.: 2O2SCLUOEDS 9094 in Ventura County's Superior Court system.