Employment Law Attorneys in Los Angeles, CA

Accountability, Compensation, and Real Change

Whether you have an employment case, have been a victim of sexual assault, or had civil rights violated, you must secure competent legal representation with the appropriate set of skills. Allred, Maroko & Goldberg has a history of demonstrated excellence in the following practice areas:

• Sexual harassment concerns
• Sexual assault
• Sexual abuse
• Wrongful employment termination
• Retaliation
• Hostile work environment
• Whistleblower matters
• Discrimination (age, gender/sex (including pregnancy), race/national origin, disability, religious, sexual orientation, and marital status)
• Equal pay
• Civil rights cases
• Defamation/First Amendment
• Serious personal injury

What Is Employment Law?

Employment law encompasses a wide range of legal protections and obligations that govern the relationship between employers and employees. These laws are designed to ensure fair treatment, safe working conditions, and equitable compensation for employees while outlining the legal responsibilities of employers. In Los Angeles, California, employment law is particularly robust, combining state and federal statutes to safeguard employee rights.

Below, we explore key laws protecting employees in Los Angeles, CA, and answer frequently asked questions about employment law matters.

Laws Protecting Employees in Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles employees benefit from a combination of federal and state laws that protect their rights. Let’s examine the most prominent ones:

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

The ADEA prohibits employment discrimination against individuals aged 40 or older. This federal law applies to employers with 20 or more employees, ensuring that age does not become a barrier to hiring, promotions, benefits, or termination. In California, additional protections under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) reinforce these rights.

Wage and Hour Laws

California has some of the most employee-friendly wage and hour laws in the nation. These laws address:

• Minimum wage: Los Angeles mandates a minimum wage higher than the federal rate.
• Overtime pay: Non-exempt employees are entitled to 1.5 times their regular pay for hours worked beyond 8 in a day or 40 in a week.
• Meal and rest breaks: Employers must provide meal and rest periods according to California labor codes.

Wage and hour violations are common issues. Los Angeles employment lawyers frequently assist workers in recovering unpaid wages and addressing hour disputes.

National Labor Relations Act (NLRA)

The NLRA protects employees’ rights to organize, form unions, and engage in collective bargaining. It also prohibits employers from retaliating against workers participating in union activities.

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)

Under OSHA, employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that could cause serious harm. California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) enforces state-level regulations, ensuring enhanced protection for workers.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA prohibits disability discrimination and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. California’s employment laws, including the FEHA, expand these protections further, ensuring fair employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

The FLSA sets federal standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor. While California’s state laws often provide greater protections, the FLSA remains a critical framework for addressing wage and hour disputes.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave annually for family or medical reasons without fear of losing their job. In California, the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) provides similar leave rights and often expands the coverage.

Title VII on Workplace Discrimination

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. California’s employment laws extend these protections to include sexual orientation, gender identity, and other categories.

Whistleblower and Retaliation Laws

Employees who report illegal or unethical practices by their employer are protected under whistleblower laws. Retaliation against whistleblowers is prohibited under both state and federal law. Los Angeles employment attorneys frequently represent workers facing wrongful termination or retaliation for speaking out.

Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN)

The WARN Act requires employers to provide 60 days’ notice of mass layoffs, plant closures, or significant workforce reductions. This law protects employees by giving them time to prepare for transitions and seek new opportunities.

Employment Law – Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If I Have an Employment Case?

If you believe your employer has violated your rights, an experienced employment attorney can help evaluate your case. Common signs include:

• Discrimination based on age, gender, disability, or race
• Unpaid wages, overtime, or denied breaks
• Retaliation for reporting harassment or illegal activities
• Wrongful termination

Los Angeles employment lawyers often offer free consultations to determine whether you have grounds for an employment law claim.

Can I Sue My Employer for Harassment or Discrimination?

Yes. California law prohibits workplace harassment and discrimination based on protected characteristics such as age, race, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. To pursue a claim, you must document the incidents and often file a complaint with a government agency like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).

What Is Employer Retaliation?

Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in protected activities, such as reporting discrimination, harassment, or wage violations. Retaliatory actions may include demotions, termination, or creating a hostile work environment. An employment law firm can help hold employers accountable for such behavior.

How Does California Law Define Workplace Harassment?

Workplace harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on a protected category, such as sexual harassment or verbal abuse related to race or gender. A hostile work environment arises when the behavior becomes pervasive enough to interfere with an employee’s ability to perform their job. Legal representation can help employees address these violations.

Is It Legal for My Employer to Fire Me for Reporting Harassment?

No. Under California law, firing an employee for reporting harassment or discrimination is illegal and constitutes wrongful termination. If you’ve been terminated for speaking up, contact an experienced employment attorney to explore your options.

How Do I Know If I Was Wrongfully Terminated and What Can I Do About It?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of state or federal law, such as retaliation or discrimination. If you suspect wrongful termination, gather documentation of the circumstances and seek advice from local employment lawyers.

What Damages Can I Recover in an Employment Case?

Damages in employment law cases can include:

• Lost wages and benefits
• Emotional distress
• Attorney’s fees and court costs
• Punitive damages (in certain cases)

California employment attorneys can assess the full extent of your losses and fight for fair compensation.

Contact Us Today for a Case Evaluation

If you have been victimized by your employer, you may be scared and unsure of your right to claim compensation and correct the offending activities. Please review our website and then contact the law offices of Allred, Maroko & Goldberg today for a consultation with an experienced lawyer who will clearly explain your rights and options under the law. You can also call us at 323-746-1853 in Los Angeles or 646-992-2184 in New York.