The employment laws in California contain provisions to safeguard the legal rights of employees. However, every employer in the state may not abide by these. It is up to you to know your legal rights and ensure that your employer does not violate them and take undue advantage of you. If you work in Los Angeles and are experiencing workplace harassment or other issues, run an online search for “employee lawyer Los Angeles” to find a reputable and experienced employment lawyer to represent you.
Who is an employment lawyer?
An employment lawyer is a lawyer who specializes in labor law or employment law and can represent both employees and employers. They may work on their own, for a law firm dealing with employment law cases, and for various companies and non-profit organizations across different industries. Employment lawyers may handle different employment issues related to harassment, discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, and other illegal conduct.
What does an employment lawyer do?
An employment lawyer works with clients to resolve hostile work environment issues such as workplace sexual harassment, bullying, and discrimination due to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, disability, health condition, and age. They may also take on cases related to employment contracts, wrongful dismissal, wage disputes, unfair wages, and benefits disputes. Additionally, they may advise employers on following local, state, and federal employment laws and about handling collective bargaining settlements.
They may attempt to resolve their clients’ issues through mediation and appropriate settlement, but if that does not work, they can file legal cases, gather evidence, and represent their clients in a court trial.
How can an employment lawyer help you?
An employment lawyer can help you by using their in-depth knowledge of employment law to protect your legal rights. You may want to consult them if you are an employee who has experienced unfavorable treatment from your employer. The lawyer can inform you about your legal options if your employer has been paying you less than the minimum wage, withholding bonuses, and denying you legally mandated leaves, holidays, and work breaks.
They can help you take appropriate legal action if you do not get a promotion you qualify for, get demoted through no fault of yours, face insults and threats, or become a victim of sexual harassment.
Having the right employment lawyer to look out for your interests can make the difference in whether you succeed or fail in your claim against your employer.
When should you hire an employment lawyer?
You should consider hiring an employment lawyer if it is impossible to resolve your workplace problems through a straightforward conversation with your employer. Many employees shy away from taking this step because they are afraid of losing their job. However, while staying employed is essential, it is equally important to stand your ground and not put up with harassment.
Any behavior that makes you feel mentally and physically uncomfortable, intimidated, or afraid can come under harassment. Of course, some situations may arise due to a misunderstanding, and it may be possible to clear them up without resorting to a lawsuit. However, if the problem continues or gets worse, it is harassment, and you need to address it.
Aside from being psychologically damaging, continual harassment can negatively impact your work productivity and affect your career prospects. Instead of putting up with it, you need to understand the protections you have under the law and use those to stop it.
Where can you find an employment lawyer?
You can find an employment lawyer by searching online for ’employee lawyer Los Angeles’ or by asking your family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, or acquaintances to recommend a reputable one that they know. It is essential to check their legal credentials and read testimonials by existing and past clients before arranging a meeting.
Some lawyers offer a free initial consultation during which they will review your situation and determine if you have a valid legal case against your employer. It is advisable to ask the lawyer upfront then about the legal fees they charge, the payment mode, any additional expenses you might incur if you follow through with the case, and the monetary compensation you can expect to get if you win it.