Workplace injustice can derail your career, devastate your finances, and crush your spirit. You don’t have to face these battles alone. At the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, we level the playing field against powerful employers who think they can trample your rights without consequences.

The results speak for themselves. Top employment lawyers in Los Angeles have secured life-changing victories for workers just like you. Attorney David deRubertis won the largest employment case jury verdict in U.S. history, while John W. Dalton secured $36.85 million across two sexual harassment lawsuits – including California’s largest sexual harassment verdict to date. These victories send a clear message: employers who break the law will be held accountable.

Finding the right employment attorney has never been more crucial. California’s workplace laws continue evolving, with recent changes voiding non-compete agreements and requiring written workplace violence prevention plans. The system feels stacked against you – with 910 attorneys at the 25 largest labor and employment firms in Los Angeles County defending employers. But remember, only the top 5% of California attorneys earn the prestigious Super Lawyers recognition. Your rights deserve nothing less than excellent representation.

This guide cuts through the confusion about finding, hiring, and working with a Los Angeles employment attorney in 2025. Honest people regularly face a system that’s too large and too complicated to fight back against alone. We’re here to fight for you, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to take that crucial first step toward justice.

California Employment Law: Your Shield Against Workplace Injustice

California stands as a fortress of worker protections in a nation where employees often face uphill battles. The robust employment laws here serve as powerful weapons in your arsenal when fighting back against unethical employers. Before meeting with a Los Angeles employment attorney, understanding these laws helps you recognize when your rights have been trampled.

Your Legal Protections Under California Law

California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) doesn’t just match federal protections—it exceeds them. While federal laws often only apply to larger companies, FEHA covers employers with just five or more employees [17]. This means more workers have legal recourse when facing discrimination.

FEHA shields you from discrimination based on:

Race (including hair texture and protective hairstyles)
Religion and color
National origin and ancestry
Physical or mental disability
Medical condition and genetic information
Marital status and sex (including breastfeeding)
Sexual orientation and gender identity/expression
Pregnancy and age
Military or veteran status [17]

California’s wage laws pack an even stronger punch than federal standards. When you work over 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, you must receive overtime pay. Put in more than 12 hours? Double pay is required [18]. The law demands meal breaks (30 minutes unpaid for shifts over 5 hours) and paid 10-minute rest breaks for every 4 hours on the job [3]. These aren’t optional benefits—they’re your legal rights.

2025’s New Legal Weapons in Your Arsenal

The legal landscape continues evolving in your favor. Since January 1, 2025, California’s minimum wage jumped to $16.50 per hour for all employers [17]. This raise impacts exempt employees too, boosting the minimum salary requirement to $68,640 annually to maintain overtime exemption [17].

The California Worker Freedom from Employer Intimidation Act now protects you from being forced to attend meetings where employers push religious or political opinions [6]. SB 1137 strengthened your protection against discrimination based on multiple characteristics simultaneously, recognizing that many workers face complex, intersectional discrimination [6].

Other powerful new protections include:

Restrictions on job ads requiring driver’s licenses unless driving is essential [17]
Freedom from being forced to use vacation time before accessing Paid Family Leave [17]
Guaranteed standard minimum wage for workers with disabilities, ending exploitative subminimum wage licenses [9]

When Employers Break the Law

Despite these shields, unethical employers continue violating worker rights across California. Wage theft tops the list, with a shocking 45% increase in cases during 2024 [10] [11]. They’re stealing your overtime, paying below minimum wage, and making illegal deductions from your paycheck.

Meal and rest break violations run rampant. When employers force you to work through legally mandated breaks, you’re entitled to premium pay equal to one hour at your regular rate [3]. Don’t let them get away with it.

Employee misclassification tricks continue despite California’s strict “ABC test,” which makes it difficult for employers to wrongfully label workers as independent contractors [12] [18]. This misclassification strips workers of crucial benefits and protections.

Disability discrimination generates more claims than any other protected category in California [3]. Employers must engage with potentially disabled employees and provide reasonable accommodations—not push them out the door.

You don’t have to face these violations alone. When employers break the law, a Los Angeles employment attorney becomes your strongest ally in fighting back and securing the justice you deserve.

Top Reasons to Hire an Employment Attorney in Los Angeles

Los Angeles Employment Attorney Todd Friedman https://toddflaw.com/los-angeles/employment-attorney/

Are workplace issues making your life harder than it needs to be? You don’t have to put up with it. Unethical bosses typically thrive on your fear of losing your job to perpetuate their unfairness in the workplace. However, you don’t need to live in fear any longer. You can take matters into your own hands and fight back.

Wrongful Termination

California might follow “at-will” employment rules, but this doesn’t give employers a free pass to fire you illegally [13]. We’ve seen countless cases where hardworking people lost their jobs for completely unlawful reasons. Your dismissal may constitute wrongful termination if it resulted from:

Discrimination based on protected characteristics
Retaliation after you reported wrongdoing
Violation of your employment contract
Taking legally protected time off work

Our attorneys secured a $500,000 settlement for a client wrongfully terminated after reporting safety violations. Powerful evidence in these cases often includes discriminatory comments by supervisors, suspicious timing of your termination, and inconsistencies in your employer’s reasons for firing you [13]. We know exactly what evidence to gather to build your strongest possible case.

Workplace Discrimination

No one deserves to feel powerless or mistreated at work because of who they are. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act protects you from discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, and more [14]. The warning signs of workplace discrimination include:

Certain employee groups receiving preferential treatment
Unfair work assignments or exclusion from activities
Denial of reasonable accommodations
Different rules for different people

We fight tirelessly to defend our clients against discriminatory practices. A $1.2 million settlement for our client discriminated against due to pregnancy shows our commitment to making workplaces fair for everyone.

Unpaid Wages and Overtime

Wage theft remains one of the most common violations we see in Los Angeles workplaces. California law entitles non-exempt employees to overtime pay (1.5x regular rate) for working beyond 8 hours daily or 40 hours weekly, with double pay required after 12 hours in a day [15].

We regularly handle cases involving:

Employers failing to pay minimum wage [16]
Unpaid overtime or off-the-clock work
Missed meal and rest breaks
Unpaid vacation time upon termination

The clock is ticking on your wage claim. Most unpaid wage claims must be filed within three years, making prompt action essential [16]. We recently secured $825,000 for a group of employees denied proper overtime compensation.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment creates toxic work environments that can damage your career, health, and wellbeing. California law recognizes two primary types:

Quid pro quo harassment: When someone demands sexual favors in exchange for workplace benefits [17]
Hostile work environment: When pervasive harassment creates an abusive atmosphere [18]

After experiencing harassment, reporting through proper channels is your first step. Filing a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing comes next [17]. We’ll guide you through every step, helping collect crucial evidence and document damages. Our firm recently won a $650,000 settlement for a client subjected to persistent sexual harassment by a supervisor.

Whistleblower Retaliation

Reporting illegal corporate activity takes courage. California’s Whistleblower Protection Act shields you from retaliation when you stand up for what’s right [4]. This protection applies whether you report violations to supervisors or external authorities [4].

Employers cannot legally respond with:

Termination or demotion
Reduction in hours or pay
Transfers without notice
Intimidation tactics

You remain protected even if the reported activity turns out not to violate the law, provided you had a reasonable good faith belief [19]. We’ve helped whistleblowers recover millions after facing retaliation for doing the right thing.

At the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, we level the playing field. Our legal team fights tirelessly to defend our clients’ rights in these challenging workplace situations. We will fight back for you.

Finding a Fighter for Your Workplace Rights

When unethical employers violate your rights, you need a powerful advocate in your corner. The right employment attorney makes all the difference between victory and defeat. But with thousands of lawyers practicing in Los Angeles, how do you find someone who will truly fight for you?

Bar Association Resources: Verified Defenders

The California State Bar and Los Angeles County Bar Association stand as guardians of legal standards. They maintain databases of attorneys who’ve proven their professional worth and remain in good standing.

These associations offer referral services connecting you with attorneys who specialize in employment cases like yours. The verification process means you’re not just getting any lawyer – you’re getting one who meets strict professional requirements. This extra layer of protection matters when your livelihood is on the line.

Online Platforms: Warriors with Proven Results

Looking for an attorney who’s secured major victories? These trusted platforms can help:

Super Lawyers directory: Find attorneys recognized for excellence and proven results. Only the top 5% make the cut.
Justia: Compare over 1000 top-rated California attorneys with filters for specific case types like wrongful termination or whistleblower retaliation.
LegalMatch: Submit your case details and receive responses from attorneys ready to take on your fight.
NELA Directory: Connect with attorneys dedicated exclusively to defending employee rights.

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve secured settlements of $500,000 for wrongful termination and helped countless employees recover what they’re rightfully owed.

Personal Recommendations: Battle-Tested Allies

Your personal network might offer the most valuable insights. Friends, family members, and colleagues who’ve fought similar battles can share first-hand experiences about an attorney’s effectiveness, communication style, and dedication.

Even attorneys in different practice areas often know which employment lawyers fight hardest for their clients. Many of our cases come through professional referrals from lawyers who recognize when workers need specialized employment law representation.

Don’t just look at credentials. Examine the attorney’s experience with cases like yours, their success rate, and how they communicate. A true advocate will clearly explain their approach to your case and be transparent about fees during your initial consultation.

The right attorney doesn’t just know the law – they fight tirelessly to make it work for you.

Preparing For Your First Meeting: Getting Ready to Fight Back

Taking the first step toward fighting workplace injustice requires proper preparation. When you meet with our employment attorneys, coming ready with the right documents and questions helps us build the strongest possible case for you. We’ll fight tirelessly to defend your rights, but your preparation makes our advocacy even more powerful.

Bring These Documents to Your Consultation

Unethical employers thrive on disorganized employees who can’t prove their claims. Don’t let them win on a technicality. Create a detailed timeline of workplace events – this becomes the backbone of your employment case and helps us identify exactly when and how your rights were violated.

Essential documents that strengthen your position include:

Employment contracts, offer letters, and policy manuals
Performance evaluations and job descriptions
Pay stubs showing compensation details
Communication with your employer (emails, texts, memos)
List of potential witnesses with contact information
Evidence supporting your claims (photos, recordings)

Organize these materials systematically before your appointment. If documents are on company devices, talk to us first before removing them – we’ll help you avoid potential legal pitfalls that could damage your case.

Questions That Protect Your Interests

Nobody deserves to feel powerless against an unfair employer. Asking the right questions during your consultation ensures you find an attorney who will truly champion your cause.

Get direct answers about experience: “How long have you been fighting for employee rights?” and “Have you handled cases like mine before?” Understanding our assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses gives you realistic expectations about potential outcomes.

Don’t hesitate to clarify fee structures upfront. Will we charge hourly rates, monthly retainers, or work on contingency? You deserve transparency about costs from the very beginning.

Communication can make or break your case. Ask: “How often will I receive updates?” and “Who will be my primary contact when I have questions?” Clear expectations prevent frustration during the legal process.

Tell Your Story Effectively

The system is designed to intimidate you into silence. We’re here to amplify your voice, but we need specific details to build a compelling case. Start with a clear, brief summary that captures what happened: “I was fired three weeks after returning from medical leave despite ten years of positive reviews.”

Vague complaints like “I was harassed” don’t give us enough to work with. Instead, tell us exactly what happened: “My supervisor said X on this specific date” or “I was denied a promotion immediately after disclosing my pregnancy.”

Honesty is absolutely crucial – don’t withhold unfavorable information from your attorney. We need the complete picture to effectively represent you and prepare for whatever the other side might bring up. Together, we’ll take the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve.

Los Angeles Employment Attorney Guide: Standing Up For Your Workplace Rights in 2025

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What Happens After You Hire an Attorney

Once you’ve put your trust in a Los Angeles employment attorney, the real work begins. Understanding what comes next will help you feel confident as we fight for your workplace rights together.

Case Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Your attorney immediately rolls up their sleeves and starts building your case from the ground up. We don’t just take your word for it – we prove it with rock-solid evidence:

Emails, formal complaints, and pay records that tell your story
Photos and videos that capture workplace violations in action
Powerful witness statements from colleagues who saw what happened
Expert testimony when specialized knowledge strengthens your case

We know exactly what evidence will make your case unbeatable. While employers try to hide or destroy crucial information, we work tirelessly to preserve everything properly. Your employer has lawyers working to get evidence thrown out – we make sure that doesn’t happen.

Filing Complaints or Lawsuits

Before heading straight to court, we often need to file administrative complaints with government agencies. For discrimination cases, we file with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing or the EEOC.

The clock starts ticking once we file. Your employer gets notified within 10 days, and then the agency investigates for about 11 months. They’ll request information from both sides. After that, you’ll either get a “right-to-sue” notice or the agency might fight for resolution themselves.

Don’t worry about navigating this complicated process alone. We handle every detail, ensuring deadlines are met and paperwork is flawless.

Settlement Negotiations and Court Proceedings

Here’s something most attorneys won’t tell you: nearly 95% of employment cases settle before trial. We strategically push for settlement talks at key moments:

Right after our initial investigation
After we’ve obtained important documents
After your deposition but before company executives get questioned
Following critical court motions

These strategic timing decisions can make the difference between a mediocre settlement and life-changing compensation.

If the employer refuses to offer fair compensation, we don’t back down. We prepare aggressively for trial, gathering additional evidence and developing a winning strategy that puts maximum pressure on your employer.

Many cases benefit from mediation – where a neutral third party helps facilitate settlement. We fight for both monetary compensation and critical non-monetary terms. We’ve seen too many workers get tricked into terrible settlement provisions like excessive liquidated damages or unlawful non-disparagement clauses. We protect you from these dirty tactics.

Remember: the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman stands between you and an employer who thinks they can get away with violating your rights. We level the playing field, and we don’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.

Fight Back: Protecting Your Workplace Rights

Unethical employers too often count on you feeling powerless against their misconduct. They’re wrong. This guide arms you with crucial knowledge about California’s employment laws and how to stand up against workplace injustice. When employers violate your rights through discrimination, wrongful termination, wage theft, or harassment, they’re betting you won’t fight back. Prove them wrong.

Finding the right legal champion means researching thoroughly – checking bar associations, seeking trusted referrals, and reviewing reputable online platforms. The right attorney dramatically increases your chances of securing fair compensation and true justice. Remember to gather your documents before that first meeting. This preparation helps your attorney quickly assess your case’s strengths and develop a winning strategy.

Employment law cases follow specific timelines and procedures. While you focus on rebuilding your career, your attorney handles the complex processes of evidence gathering, administrative filings, and settlement negotiations. Most cases resolve before trial, but your lawyer will prepare thoroughly should court proceedings become necessary.

California’s workplace protections continuously evolve – with recent changes to minimum wage requirements, protections for intersectional identities, and elimination of subminimum wage licenses. These changes make professional legal guidance more essential than ever.

Don’t face workplace injustice alone. Your rights deserve fierce protection, and the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman fights tirelessly for employees like you. We level the playing field against powerful employers who think the rules don’t apply to them.

Time limits restrict how long you can wait to file claims, making prompt action essential. Your decision to seek legal help today could transform your professional future and financial security for years to come. Contact us for a free consultation to take the first step toward the justice you deserve.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key employment laws in California that protect workers? California has robust employment laws, including the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) which prohibits discrimination based on various protected characteristics. The state also has strong wage laws, mandating overtime pay, meal breaks, and rest breaks. Recent legislation has increased the minimum wage and strengthened protections for workers with disabilities.

Q2. How do I know if I need to hire an employment attorney in Los Angeles? You should consider hiring an employment attorney if you’ve experienced wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages or overtime, sexual harassment, or retaliation for whistleblowing. These situations can be complex, and an attorney can help protect your rights and pursue appropriate legal remedies.

Q3. What should I bring to my first meeting with an employment lawyer? Prepare a chronological timeline of workplace events, and bring relevant documents such as employment contracts, pay stubs, performance evaluations, and any communication with your employer. Also, compile a list of potential witnesses and any evidence supporting your claims. This preparation helps the attorney evaluate your case efficiently.

Q4. How long does an employment law case typically take to resolve? The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case. Some cases may settle within a few months, while others could take a year or more if they go to trial. Many cases involve filing administrative complaints first, which can take several months to process before a lawsuit can be filed.

Q5. What happens if my employment case goes to court? If your case goes to court, your attorney will handle the legal proceedings, including gathering additional evidence, securing witness testimony, and developing a trial strategy. However, it’s important to note that nearly 95% of employment cases settle before trial, often through negotiation or mediation processes.

References

[1] – https://www.brightmine.com/us/resources/hr-compliance/california-employment-law/
[2] – https://stalwartlaw.com/how-is-california-employment-law-different-from-other-states/
[3] – https://www.gibbsgiden.com/blog/ten-common-employment-violations/
[4] – https://www.callaborlaw.com/entry/california-employers-are-you-ready-for-the-new-laws-of-2025
[5] – https://www.hklaw.com/en/insights/publications/2024/12/a-look-at-new-california-labor-and-employment-laws-for-2025
[6] – https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/12/28/new-in-2025-protecting-more-workers/
[7] – https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/howtoreportviolationtobofe.htm
[8] – https://rdlawgroup.com/blog/what-are-the-7-most-common-wage-violations-that-los-angeles-employers-try-to-hide-from-their-workers/
[9] – https://www.employment-counsel.com/blog/what-are-common-california-labor-law-violations/
[10] – https://www.bwcounsel.com/los-angeles-employment-lawyer/wrongful-termination/
[11] – https://lelawfirm.com/practice-areas/california-workplace-discrimination-attorney/
[12] – https://www.yashlaw.com/practice-areas/employment-law/wage-and-hour-issues/overtime-pay-disputes/
[13] – https://wilshirelawfirm.com/california-unpaid-wages-lawyer/
[14] – https://boucher.la/sexual-harassment-lawyer/
[15] – https://www.helmerfriedman.com/sexual-harassment-lawyers-los-angeles/
[16] – https://www.dhillonlaw.com/whistleblower-attorneys-ca/
[17] – https://www.webberlawgroup.com/employment-law/whistleblower/

Published: May 6, 2025

Updated: December 15, 2025

This is attorney advertising. These posts are written on behalf of Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C. and are intended solely as informational content. These blogs in no way provide specific or actionable legal advice, nor does your use of or engagement with this site establish any attorney-client relationship. Please read the disclaimer.

California Employment Law: Your Shield Against Workplace Injustice