Reliable Employment Harassment Lawyers Serving Silicon Valley, CA
Our seasoned employment lawyers handle all kinds of issues, from daily operations to litigation. Our Silicon Valley Employment Harassment Attorney serve clients across various sectors, including technology, professional services, and manufacturing, offering tailored solutions that meet industry-specific needs.
California Employment Laws
Understanding California Employment Laws California is renowned for its comprehensive employment laws, which often extend beyond federal standards. Key laws include the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which prohibits discrimination and harassment; the Labor Code, governing wages and working conditions; and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), offering family and medical leave rights. These laws create a framework that covers everything from workplace safety to wage disputes and anti-discrimination policies. For both employers crafting contracts and policies, and employees navigating workplace challenges, a solid grasp of these pivotal California laws is essential for ensuring fairness and legal compliance.
Common Silicon Valley Employment Issues
In Silicon Valley, both employers and employees often face a unique set of employment-related challenges. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues.
Bonus Disputes
Bonuses are a significant part of many individuals’ annual compensation in Silicon Valley. Because these incentives are often paid out at the end of the calendar year, employees who leave before that time are sometimes disappointed at the loss of those funds.
Under certain conditions, employees may still be entitled to a portion of their bonus even after leaving their job before the year-end payout. Certain forms of bonuses, known as “earned” or “non-discretionary” bonuses, are considered part of an employee’s earned compensation under California law. Employers are prohibited by state law from withholding wages or other forms of compensation that you have already professionally earned.
Severance Agreements
Many employees, regardless of industry or levels of seniority, have misconceptions regarding severance agreements. For one thing, while severance packages are regularly awarded to Silicon Valley employees who have been laid off, no legislation guarantees that all workers are entitled to them.
A severance agreement is a legally enforceable document that is intended to smooth your exit from the firm. Yes, there are some benefits for you if you agree to certain requirements. That is why, even if you are leaving your employer on good terms, you should consult with a lawyer who can analyze your agreement.
There is also no legal criteria for determining whether your severance payment is “fair” or not. However, an expert Silicon Valley Employment Harassment Attorney can review your contract and advise you on how to negotiate intelligently.
Wrongful Termination
What are the most typical mistakes employees make when it comes to wrongful termination? They believe that is the same as being fired unfairly. Because most California workers are employed at will, your supervisor can fire you for nearly any reason (or no reason) – if doing so does not violate the law.
However, just because wrongful termination occurs less frequently than many employees assume does not indicate that it does not occur or that it cannot happen to you.
California is noted for having a particularly strong set of labor laws meant to prevent employees from being fired for a variety of unfavorable reasons.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is pure discrimination under the law. Harassment based on sex, according to California law, includes mistreatment directed against an individual based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or transgender status. If you have become a victim of this type of harassment, call our Silicon Valley sexual harassment attorneys now.
Whistleblower Retaliation
When an employee discloses (“blows the whistle”) an employer’s illegal or inappropriate behavior, this is referred to as whistleblowing. Examples of incorrect behavior include:
- Violation of a state or federal law
- Noncompliance with a local, state, or federal rule or regulation,
- Unsafe working conditions or practices that endanger employee health and safety.
Individuals who take a stance against companies that disobey the law or abuse their authority in this way are protected under California law.
Employers are prohibited by state law from reacting against employees who report illegal behavior or refuse to participate in illegal activity. Employers who punish their employees in this manner for obeying the law are engaging in illegal retaliation.
Contact A Skilled Silicon Valley Employment Harassment Attorney Today!
If you’re facing employment issues and need expert legal guidance, don’t hesitate. Contact our Silicon Valley Employment Harassment Lawyers today to discuss your employment matter. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of California employment law and find the justice you deserve. Contact Winer, Burritt & Scott, LLP today to consult directly with a seasoned attorney from our team.