By: Brian | January 10, 2025 | News
Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers help workers in California when their rights are violated. California has extensive laws that protect workers in every industry, and there’s new laws that are taking effect in 2025 that you need to know about. To learn more about your legal options when your workplace rights are violated, contact us today for a free consultation.
What New Employment Laws Are Taking Effect in 2025?
As a worker in California, you have blanket protections from the law when it comes to how you’re treated and paid. But the law evolves, as a batch of new changes show. As we enter 2025, there’s a few different changes that could impact you:
- Minimum wage increase – The state minimum wage is going to be increased to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of company size. Salary employees must earn at least $68,640 annually, while computer professionals must make at least $56.97 per hour or $118,657.43 annually.
- Changes to paid sick leave – There’s also a slew of changes to paid sick leave, which focus on victims of violence or those that have sick family members:
- Leave for victims of violence (AB 2499) – With AB 2499, Workers (and their family members) can take paid time off if they’re experiencing sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking. Additionally, you’re also protected from unlawful retaliation if you take this leave.
- Paid family leave (AB 2123) – Employers can no longer force workers to use their vacation days before accessing state-paid family leave benefits. This leave helps employees care for sick family members, bond with a new child, or help during military deployments.
- Reproductive loss leave (AB 2011) – For small employers (5–19 employees), disputes about reproductive loss leave must go through mediation before heading to court.
- Leave for victims of violence (AB 2499) – With AB 2499, Workers (and their family members) can take paid time off if they’re experiencing sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking. Additionally, you’re also protected from unlawful retaliation if you take this leave.
- Freelance Protection Act (SB 988) – Written contracts are mandatory for services over $250. Payment must not be delayed or conditioned on accepting reduced fees Freelancers are protected against retaliation and can take legal action if they are.
As you can see, these changes are going to help you as a worker in California. And while this gives you more protections, it doesn’t change what you need to do if your employer violates your rights.
What Should You Do If You Think Your Workplace Rights Are Being Violated?
Obviously, any violation of your rights as a worker is pretty blatant on the part of your employer. But, it’s also a difficult situation to be in, and while you have legal rights, it’s all about putting together a strong claim with evidence to back you up. So, if you think your employer isn’t paying you correctly or doing something else that constitutes breaking the law, here’s what you should do:
- Keep good records – Keep meticulous records of your hours worked, paystubs, and any differences in your pay, including missed payments or unpaid overtime. These records will serve as crucial evidence if your case moves forward.
- Save any and all communications – Save copies of emails, text messages, or any written communication from your employer that relates to your pay. These can provide additional proof of your claims.
- Talk with your employer – Before taking legal action, you should probably talk with your employer or HR department directly. Fixing the problem internally can save time and avoid formal legal action.
Taking these steps not only helps you respond to unpaid wages but also strengthens your position if your employer refuses to cooperate. If that happens, our team can help you understand your rights, then guide you through the claims process so you can get what you’re owed.
How Can Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers Help You With Unpaid Wages in California?
When your employer breaks the law, it’s frustrating and overwhelming–especially when it takes your paycheck out of your pocket. That’s where our lawyers step in to make a difference. We’re here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you secure the pay you’re owed. Here’s how we can help:
- Explaining the law – We’ll explain your legal rights under California law and outline the best course of action based on your specific situation.
- Building a strong claim – Our team will collect and organize the necessary evidence, including pay records, communications, and other documentation, to support your claim.
- Handling negotiations – Whether it’s dealing with your employer or their insurance company, we’ll negotiate directly on your behalf to resolve the issue efficiently and fairly.
- Legal guidance – If your case requires mediation or litigation, we’ll represent you in court and advocate for your rights every step of the way.
- Protecting you against further violations – We’ll make sure you’re shielded from any unlawful retaliation that could come up as a result of asserting your rights.
While you’re not legally required to have a lawyer for these situations, having our experienced team on your side makes things much easier for you. We’ll manage your case so you can focus on what matters most–your work and your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.
