Football is synonymous with cheerleaders. All 32 National Football League franchises have a team of girls who cheer each Sunday.
Perhaps the most famous group of cheerleaders is the Raiderettes of the Oakland Raiders. However, the future of this squad could be in jeopardy, as the group recently sued the organization for wage theft and unfair employment practices.
According to the San Jose Mercury News, the lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court claims that the team withholds pay until after the season is completed and does not pay for all hours worked. Also, the lawsuit claims that the cheerleaders are forced to pay for business expenses and are charged fines if the wrong poms-poms are brought to practice or the wrong workout clothing is worn to rehearsals.
Wage Theft Prevention Act
If the allegations are true, the Raiders may be in some trouble, as California passed the Wage Theft Prevention Act in the beginning of 2012, which strengthened the state’s labor codes. The following are some of the requirements put in place by the legislation:
Workers have to receive the required notice at the time of hire of the rate of pay, whether it be by the hour, shift, day, week, salary or commission
Regular paydays need to be designated by the employer as required by law
Employers need to inform employees of the intent to claim allowances as part of the minimum wage, such as meals or lodging
With the Oakland Raiders cheerleaders suing the football team, it will be interesting to see if other squads who also feel they are unfairly compensated follow suit. Of course, every situation will be different since wage laws vary on a state-by-state basis, but this could set off a chain reaction among NFL cheerleaders.
Bringing on outside investors can provide the capital and strategic support a business needs to grow. However, raising capital also introduces important legal, financial, and operational considerations. Before bringing on investors, businesses should address key legal issues to reduce risk, streamline investor due diligence, and position the company for long-term success. Early preparation signals that […]
How the Updated Law Shapes Retirement and Estate Planning The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 materially reshapes the required minimum distribution (RMD) landscape, extending tax deferral opportunities while accelerating distribution requirements for many beneficiaries. For high-net-worth individuals and families, these changes are not merely technical. They require a reassessment of retirement income strategies, beneficiary planning, […]
Buying Commercial Property in New Jersey: Legal Guide for Small Businesses
Small businesses considering buying commercial property in New Jersey must evaluate a range of legal, financial, and operational factors. While ownership can offer long-term value and control, it also introduces significant risks if not properly structured. This guide outlines key considerations to help New Jersey business owners make informed decisions, minimize legal exposure, and successfully […]
The SEC’s Latest Guidance on Applying Federal Securities Laws to Tokenized Securities
On January 28, 2026, staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Divisions of Corporation Finance, Investment Management, and Trading and Markets issued a joint statement clarifying how existing federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities. The SEC’s “Statement on Tokenized Securities” does not establish new law, but it does provide greater clarity on the […]
Common Legal Mistakes NYC and New Jersey Business Owners Make
Operating a business in the New Jersey and New York City metropolitan region offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires navigating a dense and highly regulated legal environment. From entity formation to regulatory compliance, seemingly minor legal oversights can expose business owners to significant risk. In our work with businesses throughout the region, our attorneys […]
High-profile founder litigation is more than just a media spectacle. For startup founders, these cases underscore the legal and structural risks that can arise when rapid growth outpaces formal oversight. While launching a new company can be both an exciting and deeply rewarding endeavor, founders must be mindful that it also comes with significant risks. […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
