If you are a California employee, it is important to know your rights. The laws governing employment can be complex, and it can be difficult to know what is protected under the law and what isn't. In this guide from the Law Office of James Hawkins APLC in Orange County, we will outline the most important protections that employees in California enjoy. We will also provide information on how to file a claim if your rights have been violated. Read on to learn more, and if you believe your rights have been violated, reach out to our Orange County employment attorneys today.
The Ultimate Guide to Your Rights as an Employee
Learn More With Our Experienced Attorneys
The Ultimate Guide to Your Rights as an Employee
Safe & Healthy Work Environment
As an employee in California, you have the right to a safe and healthy work environment. This means that your employer must provide you with a workplace that is free from hazards that could cause you injury or illness. If you believe that your workplace is unsafe, you can file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Fair Pay
You also have the right to be paid fairly for your work. California's minimum wage is currently $14 per hour for employers with 25 or fewer employees, and $15 per hour for employers with 26 or more employees. If you are not being paid at least this amount, you may be able to file a claim with the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE).
Discrimination & Harrassment
As an employee in California, you have the right to be free from discrimination and harassment in the workplace. California's anti-discrimination laws protect employees from being treated unfairly based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation. If you believe that you have been the victim of discrimination or harassment at work, you should contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
Paid & Unpaid Leave
Finally, as an employee in California, you also have the right to take time off from work for certain reasons. For example, you are entitled to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year if you need to care for a sick family member or bond with a new child. You may also be eligible for paid sick days, depending on your employer's policy.
Learn More From an Experienced Employment Attorney
These are just a few of the rights that California employees enjoy. If you believe that your rights have been violated, we encourage you to contact an experienced employment law attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your interests. Contact the team at the Law Office of James Hawkins APLC in Orange County today to schedule a consultation.
