Complaint Review: Claude Maidenberg

I began working as a Sales Consultant for D-Carte, owner Claude Maidenberg, in October of 2009. We had a contract, signed by both parties, which stipulated terms of my employment and pay.

In December of 2010 he suggested that I continue working for him without pay. I declined that offer saying I would be uncomfortable continuing under those circumstances and because of problems he'd had delivering product samples to clients on time. I had lost several huge prospects due to him sending me broken prototypes, sending out samples too late, and saying he'd sent out requested samples when in fact he had not done so.

When I declined his offer to continue working 35-40 hours a week unpaid, he declined to pay me for the last 2 months I worked for him: November of 2010 and December of 2010.

When asked when I would be paid, the bank transfer was always "on the way" or going to be made "the next day."

After several months and patiently waiting and seeking a resolution, I sought legal advice in April of 2010.

I was told that as I lived in MA during the period under dispute, I was able to file a Wage and Complaint Form, which I am now in the process of doing. When contacted by my legal counsel he said he'd "certainly pay me in May or June."

It is now June, and, of course, I am still unpaid. He refuses to respond to emails or correspond with me to find a resolution.

I've been working as a professional Freelancer and Consultant for the past 8 years. I have never had a client act in such an unprofessional, unpleasant manner.

I would strongly urge anyone considering working with Claude Maidenberg or D-Carte to reconsider.