California employment law covers a wide range of issues designed to protect you throughout your employment journey. Below are the primary areas where your rights are safeguarded:
Protection Against Wrongful Termination While most employment in California is “at-will,” the law strictly limits the reasons an employer can legally fire you. Terminations based on unlawful grounds, such as discrimination or retaliation for exercising your rights, are considered wrongful and are prohibited.
Your Right to a Discrimination-Free Workplace Every employee deserves to be treated with fairness and to be judged on their skills and qualifications, not personal characteristics. California law prohibits workplace discrimination and harassment based on protected categories such as race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, and more.
Ensuring Fair Pay: Your Wage & Hour Rights You have the right to be paid fairly for all the work you do. California mandates compliance with minimum wage laws, overtime pay for extended hours, and legally required meal and rest breaks for most employees, along with accurate and timely payment.
Protection Against Unlawful Workplace Retaliation If you’ve asserted your legal rights, reported unlawful conduct by your employer, or participated in a protected activity (like an investigation), California law shields you from suffering an adverse employment action, being treated unfairly, or being terminated as a result.
Your Entitlement to Medical and Family Leave Balancing work with personal health needs and family responsibilities is essential. State and federal laws provide eligible employees with job-protected leave for qualifying personal medical conditions, to care for family members, or to bond with a new child, often with options for partial wage replacement.
Understanding Employment Contracts & Severance Agreements Employment agreements can define key aspects of your job and your rights. When your employment ends, you may be offered a severance agreement. It’s crucial to fully understand the terms of any such agreement before signing.
