In the contract between employees and employers, each has to hold up their end of the bargain. If you’re concerned that your employee rights aren’t being respected by your employer, civil litigation attorneys in California can help you understand the details of what your employers owe you.
Here, we’ll go over some of the basic rights in the workplace that every employee is entitled to.
What are Your Rights in the Workplace?
The employer-employee relationship can be productive and mutually beneficial, but it can also turn sour if both parties do not fulfill their responsibilities. Employers have the responsibility of maintaining their employment contract with the agreed-upon wages, keeping the workplace safe, and more.
There are many federal and state laws dedicated to keeping workers safe from exploitation and workplace hazards. These workplace laws offer a path for employees to file complaints and lawsuits to receive some form of compensation.
The Right to a Safe Workplace
Employers are required to maintain a safe, functional workplace to protect employees.
Neglecting safety measures like railings, proper signage, and other features can lead to employee injuries or even deaths. Safety measures will protect employees from toxic substances, slippery floors, and other common concerns.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates workplace safety. OSHA law violations are taken very seriously and can result in fines or lawsuits.
Unsafe working conditions can take a toll on workers both physically and mentally. Workers have a right to refuse dangerous work.
The Right to Fair Wages
The Fair Labor Standards Act is one of the most essential laws that ensures employees will be paid fairly. It establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, and other standards that are in place for both private sector and federal employees.
California employees have the right to overtime pay, which means they earn time and a half for any work done over eight hours a day or 40 hours a week. The state’s minimum wage is $15 an hour, and employers must meet those standards
Employees are also entitled to form unions to begin a collective bargaining agreement and seek better benefits and wages.
The Right to Freedom from Discrimination
Discrimination in the workplace can distract employees and decrease productivity. It also creates a hostile workplace for employees. This might include unfair treatment, harassment, or a lack of reasonable accommodations.
There is a wide range of laws preventing various kinds of discrimination, including the Civil Rights Act, which prevents discrimination based on race, religion, color, gender, or national origin.
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) makes workplace discrimination against disabled people illegal. These are considered protected groups.
How Can You Protect Your Rights?
When your rights are violated, one of the first steps you can take is to contact the Human resources department. They aim to prevent negative outcomes like lawsuits, so they will often help employees find a resolution, if possible. Your employee handbook may provide a complaint process.
Taking your case to a legal expert is another option. You can consult with an attorney to learn if you have a solid case and the best way to pursue it. If you want to get a settlement or take your case to court, an attorney can be your best ally.
Work with a Reliable California Employment Attorneys
Taking unfair labor practices to court can help you get the compensation you deserve, especially if you choose a lawyer with expertise in labor issues.
LibertyBell Law Group is a team of skilled California employment attorneys. We’re known for our skillful, tireless work on behalf of our clients. Whether you are dealing with unsafe workplace conditions, wrongful discharge, or discrimination, we can help.
Get in touch today to set up a free consultation, contact us at 866-320-4854 at LibertyBell Law Group today!
