“Should I get an attorney?” is a common question employees have when they are navigating the various issues they encounter at work. Whether it is discrimination, wrongful termination, or wage issues, knowing when to get legal help can be a key factor in the resolution of your case.
A Los Angeles employment lawyer can help you work your way through the legal minefield. They can help you better understand your rights and which course of action is the best to take.Â
If you are unsure whether you have a serious case that requires assistance from a legal professional, this guide is designed to help you recognize the signs and circumstances when you should consult an employment lawyer in Los Angeles.
When You Are Going Through Discrimination at Work
Discrimination is unconstitutional and can be based on a number of factors, ranging from age, gender, race, and disability. If you have experienced any adverse actions that you believe are based on discrimination, it may be time to call an employment lawyer. An employment lawyer can evaluate your situation, advise you on your rights, and take the steps for you when moving to take legal action against your employer.Â
For example, if your employer did not recommend you for a promotion based on your age or if you were treated differently based on your gender, an employment lawyer can help you ascertain whether or not it was discriminatory.
When To Take Action In A Wrongful Termination Case
Being terminated isn’t easy—it might feel traumatic—but if there was a wrongful termination involved, you may have a case! Wrongful termination is when an employee is terminated by an employer for illegal reasons. An employee can be wrongfully terminated for all sorts of illegal behavior by the employer, such as discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract (which also includes wrongful termination under California’s public policy). An employment lawyer can help figure out if your termination was legal or illegal.
For example, if you were terminated after filing a complaint with your employer about workplace harassment or unsafe working conditions, there is a chance you may be able to bring a wrongful termination lawsuit against your employer. A Los Angeles employment attorney will advise you of your rights and assist you in attempting to prove wrongful termination. You may even have a right to compensation for your wrongful termination.
When You’re Not Being Paid Properly
Once you are not being paid what you are owed, it’s very important that you know your rights. Wage disputes happen at tons of workplaces; it could be unpaid overtime, tips being withheld, or not getting legally paid your wages for the hours that you actually worked. If you have recently compared payslips and find inconsistencies or possibly think that you may be getting paid wrongly, you can consult a wage-and-hour attorney.
- You weren’t paid overtime wages for time worked over 40 hours in a week
- Your employer took dishonest advantage and classified you as an independent contractor
- You’re not receiving the minimum wage required by law
Harassment at the Workplace: How to Handle It
Workplace harassment is a serious issue that many employees face, but it can be difficult to know when to take action. If you experience harassment based on your race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected class, you have legal rights. An employment lawyer can help you take steps to address the issue and hold the responsible party accountable.
In many cases, harassment goes unreported due to fear of retaliation. However, an attorney can offer advice on how to document the harassment, file complaints with your company or the government, and ensure that you don’t face any further repercussions. Seeking legal help early can stop the harassment from continuing.
If You’ve Signed an Unfair Contract or Agreement
Sometimes, you may be pressured into signing a contract that isn’t in your best interest. Employment contracts and agreements can be confusing, and they might include clauses that limit your rights, such as non-compete agreements, forced arbitration clauses, or non-disclosure agreements. If you’re unsure about the terms of your contract, it’s wise to consult a lawyer.
An attorney can review the contract, explain any unfair clauses, and help you understand your options. For example, if you’re about to leave a job but your contract includes a non-compete clause, a lawyer can advise you on whether it’s enforceable and how to navigate the situation.
Filing a Complaint Against Your Employer
Sometimes, the best way to address a workplace issue is to file a formal complaint. If you’ve tried talking to your employer or HR without success, an employment lawyer can help you file a formal complaint with government agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
An attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring that your complaint is filed correctly and in a timely manner. They can also assist in negotiating a resolution or taking your case to court if the issue remains unresolved.
Conclusion
Knowing when to contact an employment lawyer in Los Angeles is essential to protecting your rights. Whether you’re facing discrimination, wrongful termination, wage issues, or harassment, legal experts can help you navigate these challenges. The sooner you reach out, the better chance you have of securing a favorable outcome. If you find yourself in any of these situations, a Los Angeles employment lawyer can be your ally in securing justice and peace of mind.
