Herb Chambers faces class action lawsuit for unpaid overtime and wages

The Herb Chambers Companies is currently embroiled in a class action lawsuit where hundreds of employees are claiming unpaid wages and overtime compensation. Despite the recent sale of the majority of its dealerships for $1.34 billion, the company continues to deny these workers their rightful compensation. Attorney Robert Richardson, representing the plaintiffs, expressed confusion over the company’s actions, especially considering the significant amount of money at stake for the affected workers.

The lawsuit was initiated in May 2020 by Richardson & Cumbo, LLP, a law firm specializing in labor and employment issues. The case was filed in Middlesex County Superior Court on behalf of former finance manager Phillip Geller and other finance managers who alleged working long hours without receiving proper compensation. According to the plaintiffs, they worked extensive hours, including Sundays and holidays, without receiving overtime or premium wages as required by state law. If successful, the outcome of this case could lead to hundreds of employees being eligible for lost compensation.

The Herb Chambers Companies have argued that they are not obligated to pay the finance managers as they are not direct employees. However, Richardson has presented evidence from various sources, such as social media, advertisements, and press releases, indicating that the company is indeed the employer of these individuals. He referred to a previous case where the Superior Court ruled in favor of an employee, further supporting his argument that the finance managers are entitled to compensation.

The recent sale announcement by Herb Chambers Companies, revealing the ownership of 33 dealerships, 52 franchises, and three collision centers, raised eyebrows regarding their current stance in the lawsuit. Richardson criticized the company for its apparent reluctance to compensate its employees adequately, considering the immense value of the recent sale. Moreover, he highlighted that the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s ruling in Sullivan v. Sleepy’s in 2019 prohibited the deduction of overtime and Sunday premium pay from employees’ commissions, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation practices.

Moving forward, the plaintiffs hope to secure rightful compensation for the affected employees. Richardson emphasized the significance of Herb Chambers as a community icon and expressed optimism that the company would ultimately do the right thing. Despite requests for comments, lawyers representing Herb Chambers and The Herb Chambers Companies have remained silent. The next hearing for this case is scheduled for mid-April, with the hope of achieving a favorable outcome and securing fair wages for the affected employees.