In my experience it's far better to quietly gather actionable data, then take someone to court. Get your ducks in a row and do this methodically. The court of public opinion won't send you a check.

2 times I've gotten my owed money from previous employers by using social engineering to get them to tell me what I needed to know: where they bank, when they sent me what check and how much, etc.

If you are totally in the right, you can essentially get all that is due you, and even more if you research your labor laws.

PS

In the US, research the limits of small claims court for your state or area. In California for example, the limit is $10,000. If you are 100% in the right, you will probably win and get an automatic judgement in your favor.