General Overview for Employees

We understand that employment law can be complex and daunting, but our aim is to simplify the important details for you. 

 

Employment law in California is a broad area that encompasses a variety of issues related to the workplace. The state of California is known for its robust worker protection laws, which are considered some of the strongest in the United States. These laws cover numerous aspects of the employer-employee relationship, including wages and hours, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and workplace safety.

 

California's wage and hour laws regulate the minimum wage, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and other issues related to compensation and working hours. As of January 1, 2023, California's minimum wage is $15.50 for all employers regardless of size.

 

California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits discrimination and harassment based on a variety of protected characteristics, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), disability, age (40 and older), and sexual orientation.

 

Retaliation against employees who assert their rights under the law, such as filing a complaint or participating in an investigation, is prohibited by California law. Any adverse employment action, such as firing, demotion, or any other form of punishment, is illegal if it's in response to an employee asserting their rights.

 

Under the California Occupational Safety and Health Act (Cal/OSHA), employers are required to provide a safe and healthy work environment. This includes specific regulations for different industries and general guidelines for workplace safety and health.

 

If an employer violates California's employment laws, employees can file a claim or lawsuit. Typical claims include unpaid wages, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination. 

 

Potential remedies for these violations can include back pay for wages and benefits lost due to the employer's unlawful action, reinstatement for wrongful termination, compensatory damages for emotional distress, punitive damages intended to punish particularly egregious employer conduct, and in some cases, attorney's fees.

 

Understanding your rights as an employee under California law is crucial to ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. If you believe your rights have been violated, it's important to consult with an experienced employment lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you seek the remedies to which you are entitled. Call us now for a free consultation.