When an employee accepts a job, they have an expectation of trust with their employer. Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken and requires legal intervention to correct the issue. It can be difficult to navigate the complexities of employment law. A Santa Ana employment lawyer can assist you whether you’re dealing with retaliation, salary disputes, workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, or need legal advice on employment-related matters.
Why Choose Us?
You have rights as an employee in Santa Ana that need to be protected. We believe strongly in fighting for employees’ rights. We are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way because we recognize the stress and anxiety that often accompany job conflicts.
We can handle the legal process of defending your rights as an employee so you can focus on keeping your life going. We can investigate your claims and evaluate them to determine your greatest possible outcome. We can communicate your options to you and work towards the one you desire. We can file any paperwork you need and represent you in court if necessary.
Employment Law
Employment law covers a multitude of areas that pertain to treatment in the workplace. California labor laws are in place to protect employees from unfair treatment in the workplace and ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Some of the topics included in these laws are:
- Workplace discrimination
- Wrongful termination
- Wage and hour laws
- Sexual harassment
- Retaliation
- Family and Medical Leave Act
- Workplace Safety
- Employee reimbursement
Workplace Discrimination
Workplace discrimination can take many forms. It is unlawful to discriminate against an employee based on their status under a protected class. Some of these protected classes include:
- Race
- Religion
- Age
- Gender
- Sexual orientation
- Medical status
- Disability
- Marital status
- Political affiliations
- Military/veteran status
- Pregnancy
- National origin
Wrongful Termination
It can be extremely distressing to lose your job, especially if you feel that you were fired unfairly. In California, workers cannot be fired for unethical reasons, like refusing to participate in unlawful activity, reporting harassment, or in retaliation for reporting misconduct. In order to make your employer legally liable, an attorney can investigate the details of your termination, look for any employment law violations, and take legal action.
Wage and Hour Disputes
Each worker is entitled to fair and just pay for the hours and efforts they put into their work. Unfortunately, disputes occur when it comes to hours worked and wages. Some issues that surround wage and hour disputes include unpaid overtime, unpaid double time, unpaid vacation time, being denied meal and rest breaks, and being paid below minimum wage.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can create a hostile work environment and significantly impact a person’s ability to perform their job duties. Sexual harassment can be sexual in nature, but it also includes discrimination and harassment based on a person’s gender. Some examples of sexual harassment include unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments, nonconsensual touching, and unwanted photos and messages.
Retaliation
Employees who report illegal activities, unsafe working conditions, or discriminatory practices should not face retaliation. Unfortunately, some employees do face retaliation after whistleblowing. Retaliation can include being demoted, harassed, ostracized, or even terminated for speaking up, all of which are unlawful.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Violations
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) grants qualified workers the opportunity to take unpaid leave with job protection for specific family and medical needs. We can assist if your employer has violated your FMLA rights by refusing to allow you to take FMLA leave, retaliating against you for taking time off, or in any other way. Our lawyers will fight for your ability to take the time off you need without worrying about losing your job.
Workplace Safety and Health
It is an employer’s responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work environment. When there are improper safety measures in place, or if they are not followed, it creates a serious risk of injury for the employees. If you have been injured on the job, you may be entitled to compensation.
Employee Reimbursement
If you incurred expenses at your job by making purchases directly related to your job or at the instruction of your employer, your employer is responsible for reimbursing you for those expenses. Some of these expenses can include gas, mileage, airfare, work supplies, and any training equipment, such as courses or books.
FAQs
Q: How Much Does an Employment Lawyer Cost in California?
A: The cost of an employment lawyer in California varies depending on a number of factors. Some lawyers charge by the hour, and some charge a flat fee. Fees can be based on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the case, the location of the practice, and the length of time the case will likely take.
Q: What Are My Rights as an Employee in California?
A: In California, workers’ rights include fair salaries and overtime compensation, safe working conditions, and protection from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, as well as the ability to take family and medical leave. Workers are also protected from whistleblower retaliation and the privacy of personal data. The point of employee rights is to ensure that every worker is provided with a fair and just work environment and working conditions.
Q: What Is the Employee Protection Act in California?
A: In California, there isn’t a single “Employee Protection Act.” Rather, workers are shielded by a number of laws put into place to protect their rights, interests, safety, and wages. These laws safeguard workers’ rights to fair compensation, secure working conditions, and whistleblower safeguards, in addition to offering protections against discrimination.
Q: What Is Considered Wrongful Termination in California?
A: Wrongful termination in California happens when an employee is fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other protected class, harassment, retaliation for reporting harassment, unsafe working conditions, or other unethical behaviors, or from taking some form of leave. When this happens, employees can file a complaint or file a claim for damages incurred due to their wrongful termination.
Retaining Skilled Employment Law Attorneys
If you’ve experienced wrongdoing from your employer, it can be difficult to seek justice. However, you do not have to try it alone. The assistance of a professional lawyer can help you fight for your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Contact Ferraro Vega San Diego Employment Lawyers for help today.