Orman v. Farmer Bros. Co.

OPINION

PARKER, Judge.

Arne Orman successfully sued his former employer for unpaid overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Without making any predicate findings, the trial court denied Orman liquidated damages and reasonable attorney’s fees and costs. We reverse and remand.

FACTS

In connection with an action for wrongful discharge, appellant Arne Orman sued his former employer, respondent Farmer Brothers Coffee Company, for $2,600 in unpaid overtime, an equal amount in liquidated damages, and attorney’s fees under the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. §§ 207 and 216(b) (1982).

The trial…