San Bernardino Employment Law Lawyers

Employment and Labor Law Attorney in San Bernardino, CA

Navigating an employment lawsuit can be challenging, and facing difficult situations at work can be even more daunting. That’s why we’ve built a reputation for defending our client’s rights to a safe and positive work environment.

As of 2022, the City of San Bernardino has a labor force of over 89,300 people, with 84,400 people employed and working.

Our San Bernardino employment and labor law attorneys bring decades of experience in holding employers accountable. With a proven track record of success, we are committed to advocating for your rights. Contact us for a free initial consultation today. We are accessible for consultations in person, by phone, via email, and through online chat.

If you or someone you know suspects a potential employment lawsuit, don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer confidential and complimentary consultations, providing the necessary care and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Why should you hire our San Bernardino employment lawyers?

• Our attorneys boast decades of experience representing employees who have faced discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or unfair treatment in the workplace.
• We have successfully recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients through settlements and trial verdicts.
• Our top-rated lawyers are highly accessible, ensuring you can easily reach out with any questions or concerns during the legal process. 
• We are deeply committed to ensuring our clients receive the attention and assistance they deserve, recognizing the stress and challenges of facing workplace discrimination, especially in situations of wrongful termination.
• We offer personal, complimentary consultations to discuss your case and examine the specifics thoroughly.

What laws typically apply to Employment Lawsuits in California?

Several key laws and acts frequently come into play in employment law cases in San Bernardino, including:

• County and state Minimum Wage Laws
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
• Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act
• California Family Rights Act (CFRA)

These laws form the backbone of employment law and are critical in protecting the rights and welfare of employees in various situations. Our knowledgeable attorneys are well-versed in these regulations and can provide expert guidance and representation in related legal matters.

Examples of Employment Law Claims in San Bernardino

Employment and labor law claims are based on the relationship between an employer and an employee. A key factor in these claims is ensuring the individual is recognized as an employee, eligible for benefits and wages, not as an independent contractor.

Various employment law claims in San Bernardino include:

• Work Safety Violations: Employers must ensure work environments, particularly in factories and construction sites, comply with all labor codes, including adherence to Occupational Safety and Health Act regulations for safe working conditions.
• Employment Contracts: Common triggers for employment lawsuits involve disputes over written contracts between employers and employees, like non-compete, severance, pay agreements, or non-disclosure agreements.
• Whistleblower Claims: Employees reporting legal violations are protected. If retaliated against, they can file wrongful retaliation claims.
• Workplace Retaliation: If an employee faces negative consequences after reporting workplace issues (like discrimination), they may have a valid claim for workplace retaliation.
• Workplace Harassment: Any form of harassment, including racial or sexual harassment, is illegal. Employers must ensure compliance with laws and internal policies.
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Denying FMLA leave or not reinstating employees post-leave can lead to legal action.
• Employee Benefits: California law entitles employees to benefits like minimum wage, health insurance, and stock options.
• Privacy Violations: Emerging in employment law, violations include unauthorized workplace recording or monitoring.
• Workplace Discrimination: Illegal discrimination covers various categories like race, age, gender, and sexual orientation.
• Wage Disputes: Disagreements over pay or employee classification often lead to wage dispute claims.
• Workers’ Compensation Claims: Claims filed for injuries sustained on the job.

If you or someone you know in San Bernardino County has encountered such situations, you might have a valid claim against your employer. Employment law encompasses a range of labor codes, making it crucial to consult an experienced employment attorney for guidance.

POSSIBLE COMPENSATION IN AN EMPLOYMENT LAW CLAIM

To understand the specific compensation you might recover in an employment law claim, it’s crucial to consult with our experienced local attorneys. Every case is unique, and our legal team will need to assess the details of your situation to provide accurate advice.

Nonetheless, several factors often influence the potential compensation in such cases, with additional considerations based on the unique circumstances of each claim:

• Evidence Against the Employer: Solid evidence, such as screenshots of discriminatory emails or texts, can significantly strengthen your case. The more concrete your evidence, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
• Financial Impact: If you were wrongfully terminated, you might be entitled to recover lost wages. This includes compensation for the income you would have earned had the wrongful termination not occurred.
• Emotional Distress: The emotional toll of experiencing unfair treatment or discrimination at work is also a critical factor. Compensation for emotional distress acknowledges the psychological impact of the situation.
• Employer’s History of Violations: While not always a deciding factor, a history of workplace law violations by your employer can be beneficial in building a strong case.

It’s important to remember that these factors are general guidelines, and the specifics of your case in San Bernardino will determine the exact nature and amount of compensation you may receive. Consulting with our attorneys is the best way to get a clear understanding of your legal options and potential outcomes.

Navigating Wrongful Termination in San Bernardino

Wrongful termination claims in San Bernardino require a nuanced understanding of both California and federal employment laws. Although California is an at-will employment state, numerous exceptions protect employees from dismissal on discriminatory grounds, retaliation for whistleblowing, or other protected activities. Employment lawyers in San Bernardino specializing in wrongful termination begin by evaluating the circumstances surrounding the dismissal to see if it qualifies under these exceptions. They assist in gathering evidence, including employment records, witness statements, and correspondence, to build a robust case. Legal strategies may involve negotiating a settlement or pursuing a lawsuit for damages such as back pay, reinstatement, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Understanding Wage and Hour Laws in San Bernardino

California’s wage and hour laws are among the strictest in the country, offering extensive protections to workers in San Bernardino. These laws regulate minimum wage, overtime payments, meal and rest breaks, and other key labor standards. When employers violate these laws, employees may face significant financial harm. Employment attorneys experienced in San Bernardino can help workers assert their rights, file claims with agencies like the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE), or initiate legal action to recover owed wages plus penalties. Additionally, these legal experts can guide class action procedures if multiple employees are impacted by similar wage violations, enhancing the case’s impact and potential remedies.

Common Asked Employment Law Questions

What is the function of employment law in San Bernardino?

Employment law in San Bernardino serves to regulate the relationship between employers and employees, defining their legal rights and obligations. This includes managing issues such as workplace discrimination, wages, wrongful termination, workplace safety, and more, ensuring fair treatment and compliance with California employment laws.

How can an employment lawyer assist with a wrongful termination claim in San Bernardino?

A San Bernardino employment lawyer can assist with a wrongful termination claim by evaluating the circumstances of the dismissal, gathering evidence, and determining whether the termination violated any laws or discriminatory practices. They guide clients through the legal process, represent them in negotiations or court proceedings, and work towards securing compensation for lost wages and other damages.

What constitutes workplace retaliation and how is it handled legally in San Bernardino?

Workplace retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activities, such as whistleblowing or filing a discrimination complaint. Legally, it is handled by proving that the employee participated in a protected activity, suffered a negative employment action, and that there was a causal link between the two. Employment lawyers can help establish these elements and seek remedies, including compensation and reinstatement.

What are the common types of workplace harassment cases in San Bernardino?

The most common types of workplace harassment include sexual harassment, racial harassment, and bullying. These cases involve unwanted, discriminatory behavior that creates a hostile work environment, impeding an employee’s ability to perform their job duties. Lawyers help by documenting incidents, filing complaints with the appropriate agencies, and pursuing legal action to address the misconduct and secure appropriate remedies.

In what scenarios could an employee file for discrimination in the workplace in San Bernardino?

An employee can file for workplace discrimination if they believe they have been treated unfavorably based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or others. Employment attorneys assist by evaluating the claim, gathering evidence, filing necessary complaints with appropriate agencies, and representing the employee in legal proceedings.

How do wage and hour disputes arise in San Bernardino, and what are their solutions?

Wage and hour disputes arise when employers fail to pay employees according to the law, including minimum wage violations, not paying overtime, or misclassifying employees as independent contractors to avoid benefits. Solutions include filing a claim with the Department of Labor or state agencies, or a lawsuit to recover unpaid wages, penalties, and sometimes attorney’s fees.

What protections are available for whistleblowers in San Bernardino workplaces?

Whistleblowers are protected under various federal and state laws, which prevent retaliation by employers for reporting illegal activities or safety violations. Protections include job security, anonymity, and legal recourse if retaliation occurs. Employment lawyers play a critical role in asserting these rights and navigating the complexities of whistleblower laws.

What is the significance of the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) in San Bernardino?

PAGA allows employees to sue their employers on behalf of the state of California for Labor Code violations, essentially acting as a private attorney general. This law is significant because it enables broader enforcement of labor laws and allows aggrieved employees to recover civil penalties that would otherwise only be assessable by state regulators.

How do employment attorneys charge for their services in San Bernardino?

Employment attorneys in San Bernardino often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win the case. Their fee is a percentage of the settlement or court-awarded amount. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to those who may not afford hourly legal fees and aligns the attorney’s interests with the outcomes of the client’s case.

Why is it crucial to have an employment attorney when dealing with employment disputes in San Bernardino?

It’s crucial to have an employment attorney because employment law is complex and varies widely between jurisdictions. An attorney can offer expert advice, strategically navigate legal systems, protect your rights effectively, and maximize your compensation or other desired outcomes. Without legal expertise, employees might not only face an imbalanced battle against well-resourced employer legal teams, but may also jeopardize their claims due to procedural missteps.

Work with the top Employment and Labor Law Attorneys in San Bernardino

If you’re facing workplace discrimination and seeking rightful compensation in San Bernardino, our experienced employment law lawyers at the Heidari Law Group is ready to assist you. You can reach out to us anytime, 24/7, for support and guidance in your employment law matters. Contact us at 1-833-225-5454 or via email at info@heidarilawgroup.com to begin addressing your legal needs with a team that’s committed to advocating for your rights and interests.