Hernandez v. Yours Wholesome Foods, Inc.

Background

Carlos Hernandez brought claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act, a federal law governing matters including minimum wages and overtime. After mediation, the parties settled all issues. Judge Broderick had directed the parties to submit the settlement agreement and explain why the settlement, including attorney’s fees and costs, was fair and reasonable. The parties submitted the proposed agreement and related papers, and the matter was referred to Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron for disposition with the parties’ consent.

Settlement and Fees

The court reviewed the proposed settlement and found it fair and reasonable, considering the nature and scope of Hernandez’s individual claims and the risks and expenses of additional litigation. Hernandez requested approval of $17,735.00 in attorney’s fees and costs. The opinion states that this amount was one-third of the total settlement amount plus costs and that the submitted lodestar was $16,890.00. The court found the requested fees fair and reasonable in light of precedent, while making no findings about whether counsel’s hourly rates were reasonable.

Ruling

Judge Aaron approved the settlement. The action was dismissed with prejudice and without costs except as stated in the settlement agreement. The court retained jurisdiction to enforce the settlement agreement and requested that the Clerk of Court close the case.

Disposition

The settlement was approved, the action was dismissed with prejudice, and the court retained jurisdiction to enforce the settlement agreement.