Best Employer Lawyers in San Francisco

About Employer Law in San Francisco, United States

Employer law in San Francisco, United States deals with the legal rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees in the city. It covers a wide range of issues related to the employer-employee relationship, including hiring, discrimination, wages, working conditions, benefits, and termination. Understanding employer law is important for both employers and employees to ensure fair treatment in the workplace.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require legal help in employer law:

• If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated or discriminated against in the workplace.
• If your employer has violated wage and hour laws, such as not paying overtime or failing to provide meal and rest breaks.
• If you are unsure about your rights and responsibilities as an employer or an employee.
• If you are facing workplace harassment or retaliation for reporting illegal activities.
• If you need assistance negotiating employment contracts or severance agreements.

Local Laws Overview

When it comes to employer law in San Francisco, there are several key aspects to be aware of:

• Minimum Wage: San Francisco has a higher minimum wage than the state of California. As of July 1, 2021, the minimum wage in San Francisco is $16.32 per hour.
• Paid Sick Leave: All employers in San Francisco must provide paid sick leave to their employees. The amount of sick leave entitlement varies based on the size of the employer.
• Protected Categories: San Francisco has additional protected categories under its local laws, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
• Harassment and Discrimination: San Francisco has strict laws against workplace harassment and discrimination. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees based on various protected characteristics.
• Healthcare Security Ordinance: Employers in San Francisco are required to make contributions towards healthcare for their employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can my employer fire me without any reason in San Francisco?

A: Yes, in San Francisco, most employment relationships are "at-will," which means your employer can terminate your employment at any time and for any reason, as long as it is not illegal discrimination or retaliation.

Q: What is the minimum wage in San Francisco?

A: As of July 1, 2021, the minimum wage in San Francisco is $16.32 per hour. This rate is higher than the state's minimum wage.

Q: How many paid sick days am I entitled to in San Francisco?

A: The amount of paid sick leave you are entitled to in San Francisco depends on the size of your employer. Generally, for employers with fewer than 10 employees, you are entitled to 40 hours (or 5 days) of paid sick leave per year.

Q: Can I file a lawsuit against my employer for workplace harassment?

A: Yes, if you have been a victim of workplace harassment in San Francisco, you can file a lawsuit against your employer. It is important to consult with an attorney who specializes in employment law to understand your rights and legal options.

Q: What are the protected characteristics under San Francisco's anti-discrimination laws?

A: San Francisco's anti-discrimination laws protect individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, height, weight, or marital status.

Additional Resources

• San Francisco Office of Labor Standards Enforcement (OLSE) - The OLSE provides information and resources regarding employment laws in San Francisco. Visit their website at: https://sfgov.org/olse
• Legal Aid at Work - Legal Aid at Work offers free legal services and information to low-income individuals and workers. They can be reached at: https://legalaidatwork.org/
• San Francisco Employment Attorneys - If you require legal assistance, consider consulting with an employment attorney who specializes in employer law in San Francisco.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding employer law in San Francisco, follow these steps:

1. Evaluate your situation and identify the specific area of employer law that applies to your case.
2. Research and gather information about your rights and responsibilities as an employer or employee in San Francisco.
3. Consider consulting with an experienced employment attorney who can provide legal advice tailored to your situation.
4. Be prepared to share relevant documents, such as employment contracts, pay stubs, or any other evidence related to your case, with the attorney.
5. Follow the attorney's guidance and take appropriate steps to protect your rights and interests.