Employment Law is a set of rules that govern the relationships between employers and employees. The laws provide a legal framework and guidelines to guide both parties as they navigate issues such as hiring, firing, discipline, leave, discrimination, and more. Both federal and state laws provide a wide range of protections for workers.
What are my rights as an employee in California?
Federal laws are overseen by the Department of Labor, which provides guidance and regulations for more than 180 workplace mandates. The laws cover a broad range of topics, such as minimum wage and overtime requirements, employment eligibility for immigrants, workplace safety standards, and more. State and city laws also provide additional protections for workers, including protections from discrimination in the workforce, wage and hour provisions, and anti-discrimination rules.
Some of the key employment laws include:
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This federal law allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave to care for themselves or a family member with a serious health condition.
Fair Employment Practices Agencies (FEPA). FEPAs are federal and state agencies that manage charges of employment discrimination on behalf of employees.
Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA). Protects whistleblowers who report violations of the law, workplaces that pose a public health or safety hazard, and other types of gross mismanagement.
Despite the many rules in place, it can still be easy for both small and large businesses to run afoul of the law. Whether it’s failing to pay mandatory overtime, not providing enough paid leave, or asking prohibited questions on job applications, if an employer violates a federal or state law they could face investigation and/or significant fines. Having a dedicated team of experienced attorneys to handle your employment law needs is the surest way to avoid running afoul of the law.