The Maryland Supreme Court recently ruled that the de minimis doctrine applies to claims brought under the state’s wage and hour laws—a decision that could influence how employers and employees handle disputes over small amounts of unpaid time. This ruling affects a class-action lawsuit filed by Amazon workers who claimed they were not paid for the time spent waiting to complete mandatory security screenings after their shifts. For many Maryland workers, this decision underscores the need for strong legal guidance when wage disputes arise. Employers often rely on specific interpretations of labor laws, and having an experienced advocate can make the difference between recovering unpaid wages and losing a valid claim. This is where working with our Rockville, MD employment litigation lawyer becomes essential.
In a 5-2 decision, Justice Jonathan Biran wrote for the majority, stating that Maryland lawmakers intended to include the de minimis rule when enacting the Maryland Wage and Hour Law in 1965. The doctrine allows courts to dismiss claims involving trivial or “split-second absurdities” of time that are considered too minor to measure or compensate. The ruling aligns with a 1946 U.S. Supreme Court precedent, which recognized the practical realities of modern workplaces.
Workers’ rights advocates such as the National Employment Lawyers Association and the Public Justice Center voiced concerns that applying the doctrine could make it harder for employees to recover wages for short but repeated unpaid intervals—particularly in industries with strict security procedures like Amazon.
The case will now return to federal court for further review, where judges will determine how to apply the doctrine to the specific facts of the case.
What This Decision Means For Maryland Workers And Employers
At Eric Siegel Law, our team is well-versed in Maryland’s wage and hour laws and how doctrines like de minimis can impact claims. As our Rockville employment litigation attorneys understand, even small disputes—when multiplied across an entire workforce—can result in significant unpaid wages. Our firm is dedicated to helping employees and employers alike resolve these matters efficiently and fairly.
In addition to wage disputes, our firm provides legal support in various business and employment-related matters. As our commercial litigation lawyers know, legal challenges often arise from misunderstandings over compensation, timekeeping, and contract terms. For companies, our corporate litigation lawyers offer proactive strategies to minimize liability and maintain compliance with Maryland labor laws.
When employment or business conflicts escalate, having our business dispute resolution lawyers on your side can help protect your financial interests and reputation. We’ve got over 10 years of combined experience in business law. We work one-on-one with our clients, helping them understand the legal process they’re facing and get the support they need. And with global and national coverage, our clients know they can rely on us to effectively represent their case.
Our team combines deep legal knowledge with a practical understanding of how workplace disputes develop. Whether you’re an employee seeking fair pay or an employer aiming to comply with evolving state regulations, our Rockville employment litigation lawyers can help you move forward with confidence. Contact Eric Siegel Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help resolve your employment or business dispute effectively.