At Miller Wilmers, APC, we represent employees in Santa Clarita and throughout California who have experienced unlawful treatment in the workplace. While personal injury law is a primary focus of our practice, we also handle employment law matters when workers’ rights have been violated.
Employment issues can affect a person’s income, career, and stability. California law provides strong protections for employees, but enforcing those rights often requires legal guidance. Our attorneys help clients understand their options and take action when employers fail to follow the law.
California Employment Law Overview
Employment law governs the relationship between employers and employees. It includes both state and federal laws that regulate hiring, wages, working conditions, termination, and workplace conduct.
California has some of the most employee-protective labor laws in the country. These laws apply to most workers, including hourly employees, salaried employees, and in many cases independent contractors who are misclassified.
Employment law claims may arise from a single incident or from ongoing conduct over time. In either situation, understanding your rights early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Employment Law Matters We Handle
Our firm assists employees with a range of workplace disputes, including:
Discrimination in the Workplace
California law prohibits discrimination based on protected characteristics, including race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, and pregnancy.
Discrimination can take many forms, such as:
- Unequal pay or job assignments
- Denial of promotions or training
- Disciplinary action applied unevenly
- Termination based on a protected status
Discrimination is unlawful even if it is subtle or presented as a business decision.
Harassment and Hostile Work Environment
Employees have the right to work in an environment free from harassment. Harassment may be sexual or non-sexual and does not have to involve physical conduct.
Examples include:
- Repeated offensive comments or jokes
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Threats, intimidation, or derogatory remarks
- Conduct that interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job
Employers may be responsible for harassment committed by supervisors, managers, or coworkers if they fail to take appropriate action.
Wrongful Termination
California is an at-will employment state, but employers cannot terminate employees for illegal reasons. A termination may be unlawful if it is based on discrimination, retaliation, or a violation of public policy.
Wrongful termination claims may involve firing an employee for:
- Reporting workplace misconduct
- Requesting medical or family leave
- Filing a wage claim
- Refusing to engage in illegal activity
Even short-term employees may have valid wrongful termination claims depending on the circumstances.
Wage and Hour Violations
California wage and hour laws require employers to pay employees properly and on time. Common violations include:
- Failure to pay overtime
- Missed meal or rest breaks
- Off-the-clock work
- Unpaid minimum wages
- Inaccurate wage statements
Wage violations can affect one employee or entire groups of workers. In some cases, claims may be pursued on a class or representative basis.
Retaliation
Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who exercise their legal rights. Retaliation may include termination, demotion, reduced hours, or other adverse actions.
Protected activities include:
- Reporting discrimination or harassment
- Filing a wage claim
- Requesting accommodations
- Taking protected medical or family leave
- Participating in an investigation
Retaliation claims often arise even when the underlying complaint is still under review.
Employment Contracts and Workplace Disputes
We also assist with disputes involving:
- Employment contracts
- Offer letters and severance agreements
- Non-compete or confidentiality issues
- Employer policy violations
Understanding how written agreements interact with California employment law is critical before signing or challenging them.
Why Employment Law Claims Matter
Workplace violations can lead to lost income, emotional stress, and long-term career consequences. California employment laws are designed to protect workers from unfair treatment, but employers do not always comply voluntarily.
Pursuing a claim may help recover:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Emotional distress damages
- Penalties under California labor laws
- Attorney’s fees where permitted by law
Each case depends on its specific facts, timelines, and evidence.
How Miller Wilmers, APC Helps Employees
When handling employment law matters, our firm focuses on clarity, preparation, and strategic advocacy. We help clients by:
- Reviewing the facts of the workplace issue
- Explaining applicable California employment laws
- Identifying potential claims and deadlines
- Communicating with employers or their attorneys
- Pursuing litigation when appropriate
We provide honest assessments so clients can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Employment Law FAQs
Do I have a case if I was fired in California?
California allows at-will employment, but employers cannot fire employees for illegal reasons. If your termination involved discrimination, retaliation, or a violation of public policy, you may have a valid claim.
How long do I have to file an employment law claim?
Deadlines vary depending on the type of claim. Some claims must be filed within months, while others allow more time. Speaking with an attorney early helps preserve your rights.
Can I file a claim if I still work for the company?
Yes. Many employment law claims arise while an employee is still working. Retaliation for asserting your rights is illegal.
What if my employer says I am an independent contractor?
Misclassification is common in California. Being labeled an independent contractor does not automatically mean the classification is legal. Many workers are entitled to employee protections regardless of their title.
Do I need proof to start a claim?
You do not need to have all evidence before speaking with an attorney. Documents, emails, pay records, and witness accounts can often be gathered during the legal process.
Will my employer find out if I speak to a lawyer?
Consultations with an employment attorney are confidential. Speaking with a lawyer does not require notifying your employer.
Speak With a Santa Clarita Employment Law Attorney
If you believe your workplace rights have been violated, it is important to understand your options. Miller Wilmers, APC offers consultations to help employees evaluate potential employment law claims under California law.
Contact our Santa Clarita office to discuss your situation and learn how we can help protect your rights.