Cristler v. Express Messenger Systems, Inc., 171 Cal. App. 4th 72 (2009)

James Cristler and others sued Express Messenger, a parcel delivery service, for violations of California law based upon Express’ allegedly illegal classification of its workers as independent contractors and not employees. Among other things, plaintiffs alleged violations of the California overtime requirements, as well as requirements to properly itemize wages and to reimburse employees for business expenses. The trial court granted plaintiffs’ motion to certify the class, but the jury determined that plaintiffs were independent contractors and not employees. The trial court entered judgment in favor of Express. On appeal, plaintiffs alleged abuse of discretion by the trial court for failing to amend the class definition as well as other legal errors. The Court of Appeal affirmed the judgment in favor of Express.