Employment Law in California: Your Rights in the Workplace
California has some of the most robust employment laws in the United States, designed to protect workers from discrimination, wrongful termination, wage theft, harassment, and unsafe working conditions. Whether you’re an employee or an employer, understanding your rights and obligations under California employment law is crucial.
At SFA LAW, we are committed to helping workers navigate the complexities of employment law. Our experienced attorneys specialize in a wide range of employment-related issues and are here to ensure that your rights are protected in the workplace.
What Is Employment Law in California?
Employment law encompasses a broad range of issues relating to the workplace. It deals with the relationship between employers and employees, focusing on rights, duties, and obligations. California has many employment laws that provide significant protection for workers, covering issues such as discrimination, wage and hour laws, wrongful termination, and workplace safety.
Some of the key areas of employment law in California include:
- Wage and Hour Laws
- Discrimination and Harassment
- Wrongful Termination
- Employee Rights
- Family and Medical Leave
- Workplace Safety
Wage and Hour Laws in California
California’s wage and hour laws are among the strictest in the country. Employees are entitled to certain protections regarding their wages, overtime pay, meal breaks, and rest periods. The California Labor Code provides detailed guidelines for employers and employees regarding:
- Minimum Wage: California has a higher minimum wage than the federal government, and it continues to increase each year. As of 2025, the minimum wage for employers with 26 or more employees is $16.50 per hour.
- Overtime Pay: Employees who work over 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week must be paid overtime, typically at 1.5 times their regular hourly rate.
- Meal and Rest Breaks: Employees are entitled to specific meal and rest breaks during the workday, depending on the length of their shift.
If your employer has failed to pay you the proper wages or has violated wage and hour laws, you may be entitled to back pay and other compensation. A skilled California employment law attorney can help you navigate these complex claims.
Employment Discrimination and Harassment in California
California law prohibits employment discrimination based on several protected categories, including:
- Race
- Gender
- Sexual orientation
- Age
- Disability
- Religion
- National origin
Workplace discrimination can take many forms, including discriminatory hiring, firing, promotions, or job assignments. Harassment in the workplace is also prohibited, including sexual harassment, bullying, and harassment based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics.
If you are experiencing discrimination or harassment at work, it’s important to document incidents and report them to human resources or the relevant authorities. An experienced California employment law attorney can help you pursue a claim for damages or file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing.
Wrongful Termination in California
In California, employees are generally employed “at-will,” meaning they can be fired at any time for any reason, as long as it is not illegal. However, there are several exceptions to this rule, including:
- Discrimination: You cannot be fired based on your race, gender, age, religion, or other protected characteristics.
- Retaliation: Employees cannot be terminated for reporting illegal activity, filing a workers’ compensation claim, or taking legally protected leave (such as family or medical leave).
- Violation of Public Policy: You cannot be fired for refusing to engage in illegal conduct, such as reporting fraud or environmental violations.
If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, a California wrongful termination lawyer at SFA LAW can help you investigate your case and determine if you have grounds for a legal claim.
Employee Rights in California
California provides significant protections for employees, ensuring they are treated fairly and equitably in the workplace. Some important employee rights include:
- Right to Join a Union: Employees have the right to join or form a union without fear of retaliation or discrimination.
- Protection from Retaliation: Employees who report violations of the law or participate in investigations are protected from retaliation, including firing or demotion.
- Family and Medical Leave: Employees are entitled to unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
- Workplace Safety: California workers are entitled to a safe and healthy work environment under the California Occupational Safety and Health Act.
If you believe your rights have been violated, a knowledgeable California employment law attorney can help you assert your claims and seek appropriate remedies.
Workplace Safety and Employer Responsibilities in California
California employers are required to maintain a safe working environment for their employees. This includes taking steps to prevent accidents, injuries, and exposure to harmful substances. If your employer has failed to provide a safe workplace, you may have grounds for a California workers’ compensation claim.
In cases of severe workplace injuries, you may also have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit if your employer’s negligence led to your injury.
How Can a California Employment Law Lawyer Help You?
Navigating California employment law can be complicated, and the stakes are high when your livelihood or well-being is at risk. An experienced California employment law attorney can assist you with:
- Evaluating Your Case: A lawyer can assess whether your employer’s actions violate California employment laws and advise you on the best course of action.
- Negotiating Settlements: A lawyer can help you negotiate with your employer or their insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing Legal Claims: If necessary, a lawyer can help you file a claim with the relevant authorities or represent you in court.
- Protecting Your Rights: An attorney will protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation or remedies you deserve for any unlawful actions taken by your employer.
Contact SFA LAW for Employment Law Issues in California
If you’re facing an employment law issue in California, you need an experienced attorney on your side. At SFA LAW, we represent employees in a wide range of employment law matters, from wrongful termination to wage theft and harassment.
If you’ve experienced any employment-related issue, contact us at 888-991-3949 for a free consultation. Our team is ready to fight for your rights and help you seek justice.
