Yes. The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled in Lopez v. Marimac LLC (March 19, 2026) that undocumented workers are still entitled to wages under New Jersey law. Employers cannot avoid paying wages by claiming a worker's immigration status.

In New Jersey, workers have strong legal protections—but many people don't realize those protections applyregardless of immigration status.

A recent decision from the New Jersey Supreme Court confirmed that undocumented workers are still entitled to wages under state law. This ruling has major implications for workers across Bergen County, Newark, Elizabeth, and other high-employment areas where workplace injuries and wage disputes are common.

At Khorozian Law Group, our workers’ compensation lawyer and work injury attorney help employees recover lost wages, medical benefits, and compensation after workplace incidents.

📞 If you or a loved one were injured at work or denied wages, call (201) 944-9200 or use our Online form for a free consultation.

What Did the New Jersey Supreme Court Decide?

The Court addressed whether employers can refuse to pay wages to undocumented workers based on federal immigration law.

Their answer was clear: No.

Even though federal law (IRCA) restricts employment of undocumented workers, it does not eliminate the obligation to pay for work already performed.

The Court emphasized that New Jersey wage laws—including:

• New Jersey Wage Payment Law (WPL)
• New Jersey Wage and Hour Law (WHL)

apply to all workers, without exception.

👉 Allowing employers to avoid payment would encourage exploitation—something the Court explicitly rejected.

Why This Matters for Workers in New Jersey

This decision has real-world impact across industries in Northern New Jersey, including:

• Construction sites in Newark
• Warehouses near Elizabeth
• Retail and service jobs in Bergen County
• Delivery and logistics corridors along Route 4, I-95, and the NJ Turnpike

Workers—regardless of status—now have stronger legal footing to pursue:

• Unpaid wages
• Overtime violations
• Misclassification claims
• Retaliation cases

This aligns with New Jersey's broader enforcement trend, including public employer accountability programs and aggressive wage enforcement.

Can Employers Still Use Immigration Status as a Defense?

No.

The ruling effectively eliminates a common employer defense:

❌ “We couldn't legally pay you.”
❌ “You weren't authorized to work.”
❌ “We compensated you in another way (housing, cash, etc.).”

None of these arguments override wage obligations.

The Court made it clear:
👉Work performed = wages owed.

How This Connects to Workplace Injury & Workers' Compensation Claims

This ruling is especially important for injured workers.

At Khorozian Law Group, we often see cases where:

• Workers are injured on the job
• Employers attempt to deny wages or benefits
• Immigration status is used as intimidation

This decision strengthens the position of workers pursuing:

• Workers' compensation claims
• Lost wage benefits
• Medical treatment coverage
• Employer negligence claims

👉 Immigration status does not cancel your right to compensation after a workplace accident.

What Should You Do If Your Employer Refuses to Pay You?

If you believe your employer has withheld wages or treated you unfairly:

1. Document all hours worked
2. Save texts, pay records, or agreements
3. Avoid signing anything without legal review
4. Seek legal guidance immediately

Many workers wait too long—and lose leverage.

Why Choose Khorozian Law Group

At Khorozian Law Group, we represent workers across New Jersey dealing with:

• Workplace injuries
• Wage disputes
• Workers' compensation claims
• Employer misconduct

We understand how these issues intersect—and how to protect your rights under New Jersey law.

FAQs 

Can undocumented workers file wage claims in New Jersey?

Yes. New Jersey law protects all workers, regardless of immigration status.

Can my employer refuse to pay me because of my status?

No. Employers must pay for all work performed.

What if I was paid in housing or cash instead of wages?

That does not replace legal wage obligations.

Can I find a workers' compensation lawyer near me if I'm undocumented?

Yes. You have the right to speak with a workers' compensation lawyer near me and pursue your claim confidentially.

The message from New Jersey courts is clear:
👉 Employers cannot exploit immigration status to avoid paying wages.

If you worked—you deserve to be paid.
If you were injured—you deserve protection.

📞 Call (201) 944-9200 or use our Online form for a free consultation.