Best Employer Lawyers in Los Angeles

About Employer Law in Los Angeles, United States

Employer law in Los Angeles, United States refers to the set of legal regulations and protections that govern the relationship between employers and employees in the city. These laws aim to ensure fair treatment and prevent discrimination, harassment, and other unlawful practices in the workplace. Understanding employer law is essential for both employers and employees to ensure compliance and protect their rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where you may need to seek legal help in employer law:

• If you have been wrongfully terminated or believe that your rights as an employee have been violated.
• If you have experienced workplace discrimination or harassment based on your race, gender, age, religion, or other protected characteristics.
• If your employer has not provided the necessary accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
• If you have concerns about wage and hour violations, such as unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, or improper classification as an independent contractor.
• If you need assistance with negotiating employment contracts, non-compete agreements, severance packages, or other legal documents.

Local Laws Overview

In Los Angeles, several local laws are particularly relevant to employer law:

• The Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance (FCIHO) restricts employers from inquiring about an applicant's criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment is made.
• The Los Angeles Paid Sick Leave Ordinance (PSL) requires employers to provide a certain amount of paid sick days to employees.
• The Los Angeles Minimum Wage Ordinance mandates specific minimum wage rates that employers must comply with.
• The Los Angeles Citywide Hotel Worker Minimum Wage Ordinance sets minimum wage requirements specifically for hotel workers.
• The Los Angeles Worker Retention Ordinance protects service employees from unlawful termination after a change in ownership or control of the business.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my employer fire me without a valid reason?

Under most circumstances, employment in Los Angeles is considered "at-will," meaning that an employer can terminate your employment for any reason that is not discriminatory or in violation of your rights. However, if you believe you were terminated unlawfully, it is recommended to consult with an employment lawyer.

2. What should I do if I am being harassed or discriminated against at work?

If you are subjected to harassment or discrimination in the workplace, it is important to document the incidents and report them to your employer or the appropriate HR department. If the issue persists or your concerns are not adequately addressed, seeking legal advice from an employment lawyer may be necessary.

3. Can I file a complaint against my employer for unpaid wages?

Yes, if you believe your employer has not paid you the wages you are entitled to, you can file a complaint with the California Labor Commissioner's Office or seek legal assistance to ensure you are properly compensated.

4. What are my rights regarding family and medical leave in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, eligible employees are entitled to family and medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). These laws provide job-protected leave for eligible employees to care for themselves or their family members in certain situations, such as serious health conditions or the birth/adoption of a child. Consulting with an employment lawyer can help you understand and protect your rights in such situations.

5. Can I be forced to sign a non-compete agreement?

In California, non-compete agreements are generally unenforceable except in limited circumstances. However, there may be other types of restrictive covenants that employers may ask employees to sign. Consulting an employment lawyer before signing any such agreement can help you understand your rights and obligations.

Additional Resources

• California Department of Fair Employment and Housing - https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/
• Los Angeles County Bar Association Lawyer Referral & Information Service - https://www.lacba.org/need-legal-help/lawyer-referral-service
• Los Angeles Employment Lawyers' Association - https://www.laela.org/

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in employer law matters in Los Angeles, it is recommended to seek consultation with an experienced employment lawyer. They can evaluate your situation, provide guidance on your rights and options, and help you navigate the legal process if needed.