Practice Areas

Our Employment Law Services 

Wrongful Termination

If you suspect that a business terminated your employment for discriminatory reasons (e.g., because of your race or gender) or out of retaliation for a prior complaint about unsafe work conditions, they may have violated wrongful termination laws. Our lawyers will assess your unique situation and help you determine whether you may be entitled to damages. 

Sexual Harassment 

Unwanted touching, flirting, joking, gesturing, or any other behavior that’s both unwelcome and sexual in nature may qualify as sexual harassment under the law. Sexual harassment can also include displaying or sharing offensive imagery, attempting to coerce colleagues or employees to perform sexual favors (whether implied or expressed), or other actions that would lead to a hostile work environment. If your employer allowed this behavior to continue, we can help you hold them accountable. 

Discrimination 

Under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, it is illegal for California employers to adversely act against employees because of race, sexual orientation, gender, religion, age, disability, medical condition, and so forth. Examples include things like refusing to hire or promote someone, punishing them, or retaliating against them with discriminatory motives. The Velez Law Firm is determined to fight discrimination in the workplace. 

Wage and Hour Laws

California has strict labor codes that regulate wages, overtime, breaks, and rest periods. Under these laws, businesses are forbidden from withholding pay from employees, forcing them to work overtime or during rest periods, or paying them less than minimum wages (even if they receive tips). Employers must also abide by the state’s rules regarding how much to compensate employees for overtime. Any corporations that violate these codes may be held responsible for monetary damages. 

Whistleblower Protections

Whistleblowing is the act of reporting unsafe work conditions or other illegal activities, including any violations of state or federal laws or regulations. Employees who report witnessing illegal acts or being asked to perform them are protected from retaliation under California labor codes. Employers who punish or fire whistleblowers may be required to compensate them and rehire them.

Retaliation

Retaliation in the workplace is expressly prohibited by California’s employment statutes. Depending on the situation, it may also be a violation of federal civil rights laws. Retaliation refers to any adverse responses to whistleblowing or complaints of discrimination, sexual harassment, requests for medical leave, fraud, or other illegal activities. Retaliatory actions can vary widely but pay reductions, demotions, and wrongful termination are some of the most common. 

If an employer has denied you of your rights in the workplace or otherwise violated labor codes, call (916) 507-2223 to discuss your case with an experienced Sacramento employment law firm.