Navigating California workplace laws can be daunting, but with the guidance of a Los Angeles employment lawyer, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands. A Los Angeles employment lawyer understands the ins and outs of federal, state, and local regulations, allowing them to guide you and help you determine the best course of action. Their experience negotiating and mediating employment disputes and presenting compelling arguments may help you reach a just resolution without resorting to trial. Plus, having an experienced advocate on your side will go a long way toward maximizing your compensation. If you’re looking for a skilled employment attorney, Los Angeles firm Tomorrow Law™ can review your claim, explain the law, and help you build a strong case, ensuring your best chance at a just and equitable resolution.
What Is Employment Law?
Employment law governs the employer-employee relationship. It is a complex area of law that protects employees from unfair treatment and ensures employer compliance. This body of law includes a variety of statutes, regulations, and judicial decisions, covering areas such as discrimination, wrongful termination, and workplace safety. Employment laws also establish standards for such issues as minimum wages, hours of work, and other terms and conditions of employment. Employees are also provided remedies and protections in case an employer violates their rights and interests.
What Are Important Employee Protections in Los Angeles?
The following are several crucial state and city laws, agencies, and acts protecting Los Angeles workers:
- The Office of Wage Standards (OWS). The OWS of the Bureau of Contract Administration is responsible for implementing and administering the Los Angeles minimum wage guidelines.
- California Labor Code. These laws specify California’s compensation requirements, including overtime pay, sick leave, and meal and rest breaks. They also include guidance on issues such as allowable working hours, workers’ compensation, and retraining and rehabilitation.
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA). The CFRA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons within 12 months while maintaining their group health insurance.
- California Occupational Safety and Health Act (Cal/OSHA). Cal/OSHA regulates safe and healthy work environments.
- Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). The FEHA protects employees from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace based on protected categories, including race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and more.
- Worker’s compensation. California’s workers’ compensation system guarantees medical treatment and compensation for injured employees.
Other federal laws like the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) mandate equal opportunities, bargaining rights, sick leave, and retraining opportunities for all employees.
Why Should I Hire a Los Angeles Employment Lawyer?
A Los Angeles employment law attorney will guide you through every step of your claims process, from filing complaints with the appropriate government agencies to representing you in court. They can evaluate your case’s strength, identify potential pitfalls, and develop a tailored legal strategy to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. They also have access to valuable resources, such as expert witnesses, legal databases, and professional networks, which can bolster your case overall. By anticipating employer tactics and developing effective countermeasures, a Los Angeles employment attorney can ensure your case remains strong from inception to finish.
How Do I Hire an Employment Lawyer in Los Angeles?
With so many options, finding an attorney can take a lot of time and effort. But remembering a few helpful tips can help alleviate the stress as you find an advocate you feel comfortable with.
- Research – It’s important to find an experienced employment lawyer with a good reputation and track record of success handling similar cases. You can request recommendations from friends and family, search online for reviews and ratings, and check with the California Bar Association for a list of qualified attorneys.
- Consultation – Once you identify potential candidates, schedule a consultation with each. Discuss your case during the consultation and ask any questions you have.
- Retainer – When you select an attorney to represent you, you must sign a retainer agreement to secure the attorney’s services. The retainer agreement will outline their representation terms, including the scope of work, fees, and billing arrangements.
Also, consider the following factors before making a final selection:
- Experience – check the lawyer’s years of practice, success rate, and if they have handled similar cases;
- Communication – a responsive and communicative lawyer you feel comfortable talking to is crucial to a smooth working relationship;
- Fee Structure – understand the lawyer’s fee structure, whether it’s a contingency fee, hourly rate, or flat fee, and any associated costs, before hiring them.
Following these tips and choosing the right lawyer can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
What Types of Employment Claims Does a Los Angeles Employment Lawyer at Tomorrow Law™ Handle?
The following are just a few examples of the types of claims Tomorrow Law™ handles:
- Wrongful termination—if your employer fired you unlawfully, we can help you explore your legal options;
- Workplace discrimination—if you experienced discrimination based on protected characteristics, we can help you file a discrimination complaint or take legal action against your employer;
- Sexual harassment—if you were a victim of workplace sexual harassment and your employer failed to take appropriate action, we can help you seek justice and compensation;
- Wage and hour disputes—if your employer failed to pay you properly, we can help you recover unpaid wages;
- Employment contracts—if you need assistance negotiating or reviewing an employment contract, non-compete agreement, severance package, or other employment-related contract, we can provide guidance;
- CFRA/FMLA issues—if you are experiencing CFRA/FMLA difficulties, we can assist you in enforcing your rights;
- Whistleblower protection—if you reported illegal or unethical workplace activities and face retaliation, we can help you seek protection and remedies;
- Unemployment benefits—if you were wrongfully denied unemployment benefits, we can help you appeal the decision and secure what you’re entitled to; and
- Class action lawsuits—if you and a group of employees face similar workplace violations, we can help you initiate or join a class action lawsuit.
At Tomorrow Law™, our experts will carefully evaluate your claim and provide you with the most effective course of action to ensure the best possible case outcome.
What Evidence Do I Need to Collect for My Los Angeles Employment Lawyer?
Once you choose a LA employment lawyer, the next step is to collect evidence that supports your case. Some critical pieces of evidence that can help your case include:
- Employment contracts,
- Performance reviews and disciplinary actions,
- Pay stubs and tax records,
- Employment-related emails and text messages,
- Witness statements from colleagues or supervisors,
- Relevant policies or procedures related to your job, and
- Medical records or other evidence about injuries or health conditions resulting from your employment.
Collect as much evidence as you can before meeting with your attorney. But remember, your attorney will also help you secure any evidence you have difficulties attaining.
When You Need the Best Contact Bibiyan Law Group, P.C.
If you need a Los Angeles employment lawyer, the skilled employment law advocates at Bibiyan Law Group can help. We understand California and federal employment laws because it’s all we do. We’ve dedicated our lives to holding employers accountable and have won millions in settlements for our clients. Call us today at 323-741-4479 to book a free phone consultation.
Our Los Angeles employment lawyers are experienced in employment law, protecting your employment rights throughout LA County. We serve clients throughout California including those in the following localities: Los Angeles County including El Monte, Glendale, Inglewood, Lancaster, Los Angeles, North Hollywood, Norwalk, Palmdale, Pasadena, Pomona, Santa Clarita, Torrance, Van Nuys, and West Covina; Kern County, including Bakersfield; Orange County, including Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Orange, and Santa Ana; Riverside County, including Desert Hot Springs, Moreno Valley, and Riverside; San Bernardino County, including Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, and San Bernardino; San Diego County, including San Diego; Santa Barbara County, including Santa Barbara; and Ventura County, including Ventura and Oxnard.
FAQ
How Do I Know If I Have an Employment Law Claim?
You may have a claim if your employer engaged in wrongful or illegal behavior or violated your rights and freedoms—for example, if your employer paid you incorrectly, fired you unfairly, or discriminated against you because of a protected characteristic. An attorney at Bibiyan Law Group can help you determine whether you have a valid claim and the next best steps to take.
What Is a Hostile Work Environment?
A hostile work environment occurs when an employer subjects an employee to ongoing harassment, discrimination, or other offensive conduct based on their protected characteristics. A hostile work environment doesn’t always involve physical threats or violence; it can also include verbal or nonverbal behaviors.
Is It Illegal for Employers to Pay Less Than Minimum Wage?
Yes. Employers must pay employees the minimum wage set by federal, state, or local regulations. However, the minimum wage varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and, in some cases, a person’s age and job. For example, employers can pay tipped employees a lower wage in some states. Employers may also pay certain younger workers or employees in training programs a lower wage.
How Do I File a Wage and Hour Claim in Los Angeles?
You can file a wage and hour claim online with the California Labor Commissioner, who will investigate and determine an outcome.
What Is Employer Retaliation?
Employer retaliation is when an employer takes negative actions against an employee, such as firing or demoting them, in response to the employee engaging in legally protected activities or exercising their employment law rights. These protected activities include filing a complaint, reporting misconduct, or participating in an investigation.
What Do I Do If My Employer Wrongly Terminates Me?
It may be possible to sue your employer, depending on the situation. Speak with a skilled employment attorney at Bibyan Law Group who can evaluate your case and help you understand your rights and options.
What Do I Do If I Am Injured at Work?
First, report the injury to your employer. Second, seek medical attention. Third, speak with an experienced employment attorney at Tomorrow Law™, who can help you file a workers’ compensation claim and represent you in any employer or insurance company disputes.
Am I Entitled to Damages If I Win My Employment Case?
Winning your employment case could entitle you to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, attorney’s fees, and other damages. Speaking with an employment attorney at Tomorrow Law™ can help you understand and maximize potential compensation.