I live in CA.

I have worked for an employer for 5 years. They are a small Mom and Pop type opperation. My relationship with them was never bad. After I was laid off, I asked for my vacation pay. The accountant said they didn't have the money to pay me, call back next week. I have been doing this for over a month now and finally after I quoted Sec. 203 of the CA Labor Law, they were quickly ready to write up a check. To my understanding, according to Sec. 203, I am owed a 30 day max of fulltime pay.

My pay rate was $19.50 per hour. My vacation owed was 7 days. I am not in a union and they DO have an accruing vacation policy. They refuse to pay the 30 day penalty and say I will have to take them to court. My question is, for roughly $6,000, is it worth it? How much should I expect after legal fees? Thanks.