Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Redlands

About Employment & Labor Law in Redlands, United States

Employment and labor law in Redlands, California governs the relationship between employers and employees in both the public and private sectors. While Redlands is a smaller city in San Bernardino County, it operates under the broad framework of California employment law, which tends to provide employees with some of the most extensive rights and protections in the United States. Local and state laws cover key issues such as minimum wage, workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, wage and hour regulations, workplace safety, and more. Understanding how these laws apply in Redlands is important for both employers and employees facing workplace legal questions or disputes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many people encounter complex employment and labor issues during their careers. You may need a lawyer if:

• You believe you have been wrongfully terminated or laid off without just cause
• You have experienced workplace harassment or discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or another protected category
• You have not been paid wages, overtime, or benefits owed to you under law
• Your employer has failed to provide required rest or meal breaks
• There are workplace safety concerns your employer is ignoring
• You are negotiating a severance agreement or employment contract and want to protect your interests
• Your workers' compensation claim has been denied or delayed
• You are facing retaliation for whistleblowing or asserting your legal rights
• You are an employer needing guidance on compliance with complex California labor laws
• You want to protect your rights regarding family leave, sick leave, or other statutory benefits

Legal counsel can help you navigate these situations, protect your rights, and ensure your employer fulfills their legal obligations.

Local Laws Overview

Redlands, like the rest of California, is governed by both federal and state employment laws. Some key local aspects to be aware of include:

• Minimum Wage: The state minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum. As of 2024, most employers in Redlands must pay at least $16 per hour, with this figure subject to change annually.
• At-Will Employment: Most employment in California is considered "at-will," meaning either employer or employee can end the working relationship at any time for any legal reason. However, terminations cannot be based on discrimination or retaliation.
• Overtime and Breaks: Non-exempt employees must receive overtime pay for hours worked over 8 per day or 40 per week and are entitled to meal and rest breaks.
• Anti-Discrimination Protections: Employers in Redlands must comply with the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal anti-discrimination laws protecting a wide range of employee characteristics.
• Paid Sick Leave and Family Leave: California provides mandatory paid sick leave, and Redlands employees may be eligible for additional rights under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
• Workplace Safety: The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) enforces health and safety requirements that employers must follow.
• Local Ordinances: While there are no Redlands-specific labor ordinances currently overriding state law, residents should keep informed about any local changes, especially regarding minimum wage or leave policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rights if I am wrongfully terminated in Redlands?

California is an at-will employment state, but employers cannot terminate employees for discriminatory reasons, in retaliation, or for other illegal motives. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, you may be able to pursue legal action against your employer.

How much is the minimum wage in Redlands?

As of 2024, the minimum wage for most employees in Redlands is $16 per hour. This rate periodically increases according to state law, so it's important to check for updates.

Am I entitled to overtime pay?

Most non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay if they work more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week. Overtime pay must be at least one and one-half times the employee’s regular rate.

What should I do if I experience discrimination or harassment?

Document all incidents, report them to your human resources department if possible, and consult a legal professional or file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) if your concerns are not addressed.

Can my employer deny me rest or meal breaks?

California law requires that employees receive a 30-minute meal break if they work more than 5 hours in a day and a 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked. Employers cannot deny these breaks.

Am I protected for reporting illegal activity at work?

Yes. California law protects employees from retaliation for whistleblowing about illegal or unsafe practices. If you face retaliation, you can file a complaint or lawsuit.

What if my employer is not paying me my wages?

You can file a wage claim with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office. You may also wish to consult an employment lawyer if your employer refuses to pay you what you are owed.

Do I qualify for family or medical leave?

If you work for an employer with 5 or more employees, you may be entitled to up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave under CFRA and FMLA if you meet eligibility requirements.

Is my employer required to ensure a safe workplace?

Yes. Employers must comply with all Cal/OSHA regulations to provide safe and healthy working conditions. If you believe your workplace is unsafe, you can report concerns to Cal/OSHA.

Can I be classified as an independent contractor?

California has strict rules (the "ABC test") determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor. Many workers previously considered contractors have been reclassified as employees to receive proper benefits and protections.

Additional Resources

Several resources can help you with employment and labor issues in Redlands:

• California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) - For wage, hour, and workplace safety claims
• California Civil Rights Department (CRD) - For discrimination, harassment, and retaliation complaints
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - For federal anti-discrimination cases
• Cal/OSHA - For workplace health and safety issues
• California Labor Commissioner’s Office - For wage theft or other wage-related issues
• Legal aid organizations such as Inland Counties Legal Services for free or low-cost legal support
• Local bar associations can help you find reputable employment and labor lawyers in the Redlands area

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an employment or labor matter in Redlands, start by gathering all relevant documents and information such as employment contracts, pay stubs, written communications, and any documentation of the problem. Consider consulting a local employment lawyer who can review your case and provide specific guidance based on your circumstances. You can also file complaints with the appropriate government agencies if you believe your rights have been violated. Take prompt action, as there may be deadlines (statutes of limitations) that apply to your situation. Seeking professional legal advice early increases your chances of resolving disputes effectively and protecting your rights at work.