Santa Clarita Employment Law Attorney

Expert Santa Clarita Employment Law Attorney: Your Legal Advocate

California is known for its strong protections for workers. Boasting robust anti-discrimination laws, strict wage and hour regulations, and extensive leave rights, the Golden State is one of the most employee-friendly jurisdictions in the country. However, the process can be challenging when seeking justice after an employer violates your rights. This is where Santa Clarita employment lawyers, such as Starpoint Law’s dedicated team, can assist.

Whether you’re facing discrimination, harassment, or seeking fair wages and benefits, an employment law attorney can be your advocate, helping you navigate complex legal issues and fight for justice in the workplace. 

Understanding Your Rights as an Employee

Employment laws at federal and state levels provide a framework for the rights and protections of employees in Santa Clarita. Some laws that California employees should be aware of include:

• The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)—sets federal standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment;
• The California Labor Code—contains provisions related to wages, hours, and working conditions, including overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and final paychecks; and
• The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)—prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on protected categories such as race, gender, age, disability, and sexual orientation.

The above is a partial list, as many other laws protect the rights of employees in California.

Protected Categories and Activities

California law prohibits discrimination based on a wide range of protected categories, including race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, genetic information, and disability.

Employees also receive protection from retaliation for engaging in certain activities, such as whistleblowing (reporting violations of law by their employer), participating in investigations, or exercising their rights under labor laws.

If you believe your employer has violated one of these protections, it may be time to call Santa Clarita employment law attorneys to seek legal recourse.

Common Employment Law Issues Faced by Santa Clarita Employees 

Employment law covers a broad spectrum of issues that can arise in the workplace. Understanding these common challenges is essential for Santa Clarita employees to protect their rights and seek legal recourse when necessary. At Starpoint Law, we can help you with the following claims.

Hostile Work Environment

A hostile work environment refers to a workplace in which unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, religion, or disability, creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile environment for employees.

Unwelcome conduct can include offensive jokes, slurs, or physical intimidation. Employers are legally obligated to prevent and address hostile work environments to ensure a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.

Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for illegal reasons or in violation of employment contracts or company policies. Illegal reasons for termination may include discrimination, retaliation, or firing in violation of public policy.

Employees who believe they experienced wrongful termination should speak with a Santa Clarita employment lawyer as soon as possible, as they may have legal grounds to file a lawsuit against their employer.

Wage and Hour Claims

Wage and hour claims involve disputes over employee compensation, including issues related to minimum wage, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and unpaid wages.

California has stringent wage and hour laws, and employers must comply with these laws to ensure employees are paid fairly for their work. Employees who believe their employer has violated wage and hour laws may be entitled to compensation for unpaid wages and other damages.

Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace occurs when an employer treats an employee unfavorably based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.

California law prohibits discrimination in all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, and compensation. Employees who experience discrimination may file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or pursue legal action against their employer.

Retaliatory Claims

Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in protected activities, such as reporting discrimination or harassment, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation. Retaliatory actions can include termination, demotion, or other forms of retaliation. 

Aidin Ghavimi - Employment Law Attorney Helping Those in Santa Clarita

Mr. Ghavimi received his Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from USC, with Honors. He received his Juris Doctorate from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. While at Loyola, Mr. Ghavimi Externed with the Hon. Chief Judge George H. King in the United States District Court, Central District of California.

Learn More About Aidin Ghavimi

How a Santa Clarita Employment Law Attorney Can Help

The right employment law attorney, like the experienced team at Starpoint Law, can play a crucial role in protecting your rights as an employee in Santa Clarita. 

• Legal expertise. Employment law attorneys are well-versed in federal and California employment laws. They can explain how these laws apply to your specific situation and advise you on the best course of action.
• Negotiation and mediation. An attorney can negotiate with employers on your behalf to resolve disputes amicably. They can also represent you in mediation proceedings to reach a fair settlement.
• Litigation representation. If negotiation or mediation is unsuccessful, attorneys can represent you in court. They can file lawsuits on your behalf and advocate for your rights during the litigation process.
• Document review and drafting. Attorneys can review employment contracts, severance agreements, and other legal documents to ensure protection of your rights are protected. They can also draft legal documents on your behalf.
• Advice on complex issues. Employment law can be complex, especially regarding issues like discrimination, harassment, and wage and hour disputes. Attorneys can provide clear explanations of your rights and legal options.
• Protection from retaliation. Employers may retaliate against employees who assert their rights. Attorneys can help protect you from retaliation and take legal action if it occurs.

Hiring an employment law attorney can provide numerous benefits, including expert legal advice, representation in negotiations and court proceedings, and protection from retaliation.

If you are facing workplace issues in Santa Clarita, call Starpoint Law and schedule a consultation with an employment law attorney to see how we can help you understand your rights and options for seeking justice.

What Types of Damages Can I Get from My Employer? 

In California, employment law claims can result in various damages for the affected employees. These damages are designed to compensate employees for their losses and deter future employer misconduct. 

• Lost pay and wages. These damages include compensation for any wages, salary, or benefits the employee would have earned if not for the employer’s unlawful actions.
• Emotional distress. Employees may receive damages for emotional distress caused by the employer’s wrongful conduct. Emotional distress can include stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional injuries.
• Reinstatement of your prior position. Sometimes, the court may order the employer to reinstate the employee to their former position if they were wrongfully terminated.
• Punitive damages. These are damages awarded to punish the employer for particularly egregious conduct and to deter similar conduct in the future.
• Attorney's fees and costs. In California, prevailing employees in employment law claims may receive attorney’s fees and costs, which can help offset the expenses of pursuing a legal claim.

It’s important to note that the availability and amount of damages can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. 

Call Starpoint Law Today

Dealing with an employment dispute can be incredibly challenging for a worker. From figuring out complex legal procedures to understanding their rights, the process can quickly become overwhelming.

At Starpoint Law, we are here to help by offering expert advice and representation. We aim to support you throughout the journey, ensuring you feel empowered and informed while we protect your rights. To arrange a consultation to discuss your situation, please contact us by phone or by filling out our online contact form.

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