Dick’s Drive-In is facing a class-action lawsuit that claims employees were denied required rest breaks, meal periods, and wages.
The suit, filed in King County Superior Court in February, alleges widespread labor violations affecting hourly workers.
Plaintiff Madison Masterson claims the company failed to provide legally required rest and meal breaks during shifts, resulting in unpaid wages and overtime violations.
According to the filing, some employees were required to work more than three hours without a 10-minute rest break and were not given a 30-minute meal break when working shifts of five hours or more, both of which are required under Washington labor laws.
The lawsuit alleges those missed breaks led to additional unpaid time, pushing some employees beyond 40 hours per week without proper overtime compensation.
Masterson also claims the company failed to pay all wages owed, including minimum wage and final paychecks when employees left their jobs.
The complaint further alleges Dick’s Drive-In did not properly provide or allow the use of accrued sick leave for qualifying absences.
Attorneys for the plaintiff are seeking to certify the case as a class action representing all hourly or nonexempt employees who worked for the company over the past three years. The suit seeks reimbursement for lost wages, along with interest and attorneys’ fees.
In a statement to customers, company president Jasmine Donovan said the business is reviewing the claims and will respond through the legal process.
“We value our employees and are committed to operating with integrity and in compliance with all applicable laws,” Donovan said. “While we cannot comment on the specifics of the allegations at this time, we are reviewing the claims thoroughly.”
Donovan also emphasized the company’s long history in the region, noting Dick’s has operated for more than 70 years and has created hundreds of jobs in recent years.
She pointed to employee benefits, including a scholarship program, and said the company regularly listens to employee feedback to improve operations.
“When our employees feel supported, they can focus their energy on taking great care of our customers,” Donovan said.
The case remains pending in King County Superior Court.
Dick’s Drive-In operates 10 locations across the Puget Sound region, including restaurants in Seattle neighborhoods such as Wallingford, Queen Anne, and Capitol Hill.
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