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Employment Law Issues We Cover

Wage Theft & Unpaid Wages

Wage theft happens when employers fail to pay workers all they’ve earned. Examples include unpaid training hours, withheld tips, or forcing employees to work “off the clock.”

  • Why it’s illegal ?

California Labor Code requires timely payment for every hour worked. Failing to do so violates wage and hour laws.

  • Why it matters ?

An employment attorney can help recover unpaid wages and penalties.

Learn more or speak with an attorney

Overtime Pay Violations

Non-exempt employees must receive overtime pay for hours beyond 8 in a day or 40 in a week. Misclassifying workers as “exempt” or ignoring overtime requests is a common violation.

  • Why it’s illegal ?

California’s overtime laws exist to ensure fair pay for extra work, protecting workers from exploitation.

  • Next step:

If your employer avoids paying fair overtime, consult a qualified employment attorney.

Meal & Rest Break Violations

California guarantees meal and rest periods for most workers. Employers must give these breaks at set times during the shift.

  • Common violations:
  • Not allowing breaks
  • Pressuring employees to work through them
  • Failing to provide premium pay if breaks are missed

An attorney can help you pursue break premium pay and enforce compliance.

Workplace Sexual Harassment

Every worker has the right to a workplace free from sexual harassment. This includes unwelcome advances, touching, jokes, or comments.

Employers must prevent and correct harassment once they know—or should have known—about it.

If your employer ignores your complaints or retaliates, legal protections are available.

Pregnancy Discrimination

Workers who are pregnant or recently gave birth are protected from discrimination under California’s FEHA and related laws.

  • Examples include:
  • Losing hours or shifts after notifying your employer
  • Refusal to provide reasonable accommodations
  • Termination during or after maternity leave

Speaking to an attorney can clarify your leave and accommodation rights.

Disability Discrimination

Employees with physical or mental disabilities are protected under FEHA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employers must offer reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.

  • Warning signs:
Denial of modified duties, schedule changes, or termination after requesting accommodations.

If you’ve been treated unfairly due to a disability, seek legal consultation immediately.

Medical Leave (FMLA & CFRA)

California employees can take unpaid, job-protected leave for medical needs or family care under the CFRA and FMLA.

Retaliation or termination for exercising leave rights is illegal.

Understanding which law applies and documenting every communication is critical. Attorneys can ensure your rights are enforced.

Retaliation & Whistleblower Protection

Employees have the right to speak up about unlawful practices without fear of punishment. Retaliation can include demotion, termination, or subtle workplace exclusion.

California’s whistleblower laws protect workers who report unsafe or illegal conditions.

If you’ve been punished for doing the right thing, reach out for help.

Wrongful Termination

Losing your job for illegal reasons—such as discrimination, retaliation, or exercising your rights—is considered wrongful termination.

Even “at-will” employees have protections if terminated for unlawful motives.

An experienced employment attorney can investigate and seek compensation for lost wages and damages.

Hostile Work Environment

A hostile environment occurs when harassment or discrimination becomes pervasive enough to affect your ability to work. Employers are responsible for preventing and addressing it once they know of the behavior.

If you dread going to work due to ongoing mistreatment, review your legal options promptly.

For complete information and help from trusted California employment attorneys, visit: www.lawyersforemployeeandconsumerrights.com