I disagree, but being that you were so matter of fact about it, it did put doubt in my mind so I did some research. Per section 201(a) of the Californian Labor Code "If an employer discharges an employee, the wages earned and unpaid at the time of discharge are due and payable immediately."

Time to call up the Labor Board and file a claim. It is my belief that the employer will have to pay a full days pay for each day the discharged employee is forced to wait for the wages earned and unpaid at the time of discharge. Not only that, but a stiff penalty will be levied against said employer for being in obvious violation of this law.

**edit**
My belief is true! Per section 203 of the California Labor Code "If an employer willfully fails to pay, without abatement or reduction, in accordance with Sections 201, 201.5, 202, and 205.5, any wages of an employee who is discharged or who quits, the wages of the employee shall continue as a penalty from the due date thereof at the same rate until paid or until an action therefor is commenced; but the wages shall not continue for more than 30 days. Suit may be filed for these penalties at any time before the
expiration of the statute of limitations on an action for the wages
from which the penalties arise.