Undisclosed
Verdict
November 2007 jury verdict against Honda for breach of warranty in Orange County Superior Court.
Fight Back Against Wrongful Termination, Discrimination & Wage Theft
Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win • 11x Super Lawyer
Torrance’s Employment Landscape: Why Workers Need Strong Legal Protection
Torrance has evolved from a small beach community into one of Southern California’s most important employment hubs. Today, the city is home to approximately 145,000 residents and serves as headquarters or major operational center for some of the region’s largest employers in aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing—industries with demanding work cultures and complex regulatory requirements.
Major Employers & Industries
As the headquarters of American Honda Motor Co., Torrance is the West Coast nerve center for one of the world’s largest automotive manufacturers. The company’s massive presence brings thousands of jobs—not just at Honda itself, but across the supply chain of parts manufacturers, logistics providers, and service companies that support the automotive industry.
Toyota USA maintains a major operational presence in Torrance (a legacy of being the longtime headquarters), continuing to employ hundreds of skilled workers in engineering, management, and administrative roles. Honeywell Aerospace operates significant manufacturing and research operations in South Bay communities, producing cutting-edge aerospace components. Robinson Helicopter Company, the world’s largest maker of civilian helicopters, manufactures advanced aircraft in the region. These aerospace and defense contractors operate under federal regulations, security clearances, and strict compliance frameworks that sometimes lead to disputes when workers believe they’ve been treated unfairly.
Beyond these corporate giants, Torrance is home to the South Bay’s largest retail and service employment sector. The Del Amo Fashion Center, consistently ranked among the largest shopping malls in the United States, creates thousands of retail, food service, and hospitality jobs. Torrance Memorial Medical Center and other healthcare providers employ nurses, physicians, support staff, and administrators. Small to mid-sized manufacturing, distribution, and logistics companies populate the industrial corridors, offering diverse employment opportunities but also diverse potential disputes.
The Diverse Workforce Challenge
Torrance has a particularly diverse workforce, reflecting its substantial Japanese-American community and its role as a multicultural employment hub. Workers come from dozens of nations and speak many languages. This diversity is Torrance’s strength—but it also creates vulnerabilities. Unscrupulous employers sometimes exploit workers they believe won’t understand their rights, won’t report violations, or will accept lower wages because of language barriers or visa status concerns.
Whether you work at a Fortune 500 multinational corporation, a mid-sized aerospace supplier, a retail outlet in Del Amo, or a family-owned manufacturing firm in the industrial districts, employment law violations happen in Torrance—and workers deserve attorneys who understand both the law and the local business environment.
11x Super Lawyer
Todd M. Friedman named Super Lawyer for 11 consecutive years (2016–2026)
Nearly $1 Billion Recovered
on behalf of California workers and consumers
5,000+ Clients Represented
across California employment and consumer law matters
Employment Law Practice Areas We Handle in Torrance
We represent employees—and only employees. We are a plaintiff-only firm, meaning we never work for employers. This means your interests are always our only concern. Here are the employment law matters we handle for Torrance workers:
Wrongful Termination & At-Will Employment Exceptions
California is an at-will employment state, but that doesn’t mean employers can fire you for any reason. You cannot be terminated for refusing illegal conduct, reporting safety violations, exercising legal rights, or for unlawful discriminatory reasons. If you believe your termination violated California law, we can help you understand your rights and recover damages.
Discrimination in Employment (FEHA)
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and other protected characteristics. Discrimination can occur in hiring, promotion, compensation, work assignments, or termination. We investigate and litigate discrimination claims across all industries—from corporate offices to manufacturing floors to retail locations.
Sexual Harassment & Hostile Work Environment
Sexual harassment—whether quid pro quo or creating a hostile environment—is never acceptable. We aggressively pursue claims against employers and managers who permit harassment or retaliate against victims who report it. We understand that harassment can destroy careers and cause lasting emotional harm.
Wage & Hour Violations
Many Torrance employers violate California labor law by misclassifying workers, failing to pay overtime, denying meal breaks, not reimbursing expenses, or withholding final paychecks. These violations can affect individual workers and, in class action contexts, entire workforces. We pursue individual claims and represent groups of employees in wage and hour matters.
Retaliation for Protected Activity
California law strictly prohibits retaliation against workers who report safety violations, request accommodation for disabilities, take protected leave, report wage violations, or engage in other legally protected activities. Retaliation can take many forms—demotion, reduced hours, reassignment, hostile treatment, or termination. If you suffered adverse action after protected activity, we can fight for you.
FMLA & CFRA Violations
Both federal (FMLA) and California (CFRA) family and medical leave laws protect your job when you need time off for serious health conditions, childbirth, adoption, or family member care. Employers who deny leave or retaliate against workers for taking protected leave violate your rights. We hold employers accountable for these violations.
PAGA (Private Attorneys General Act) Claims
California’s PAGA allows employees to sue on behalf of themselves and all other aggrieved employees for labor code violations. PAGA claims can cover wage theft, improper break periods, expense reimbursement failures, and many other violations. These claims are a powerful tool for workers and can result in substantial recovery.
California Employment Law: What Every Torrance Worker Needs to Know
California has some of the strongest employee protections in the nation. Unlike some states that favor employers, California’s courts and legislature consistently prioritize worker rights. Understanding a few key principles can help you recognize when your employer may have violated your rights.
At-Will Employment Has Limits
While California is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can generally fire employees for any legal reason, there are important exceptions. You cannot be terminated for:
- Refusing to commit illegal acts
- Reporting safety violations to authorities
- Requesting reasonable accommodations for disability
- Taking legally protected leave (FMLA, CFRA, jury duty, voting)
- Engaging in protected union activities
- Reporting wage and hour violations
- Discriminatory reasons (race, religion, gender, age, disability, etc.)
- Whistleblowing on illegal employer conduct
FEHA Protections Are Broad
California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act is one of the nation’s most expansive anti-discrimination statutes. It covers employers with just five or more employees, applies to all industries, and protects against discrimination based on protected characteristics in every employment decision—hiring, assignment, compensation, promotion, and termination.
Wage & Hour Laws Are Strict
California requires overtime pay (1.5x pay for hours over 8 per day or 40 per week; 2x pay for hours over 12 per day or 8 on the 7th consecutive day), prohibits unpaid meal breaks, requires reimbursement of work expenses, and mandates final paycheck payment on termination. Violations entitle employees to unpaid wages, penalties, and in some cases attorney fees.
Retaliation Is Illegal
Any adverse action taken against you because you reported a violation, requested accommodation, or engaged in other protected activity is illegal retaliation. Retaliation claims don’t require proving that the underlying violation occurred—only that you engaged in protected activity and suffered adverse consequences.
Arbitration Agreements Have Limits
Many Torrance employers require employees to sign arbitration agreements, but California courts scrutinize these carefully to ensure they don’t waive fundamental rights. We evaluate whether an arbitration agreement is enforceable and can often successfully challenge unfair provisions.
Important: California employment law remedies can include lost wages, emotional distress damages, punitive damages for egregious conduct, and attorney fees. This is why employment law cases can result in significant recovery—and why contingency representation makes sense. You should never have to pay to fight for your rights.
Why Torrance Workers Choose Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C.
Plaintiff-Only Representation
We represent employees exclusively. We have never worked for an employer and never will. This alignment ensures that your interests are always our only concern. We don’t balance employer and employee interests—we advocate fiercely for workers.
Decades of Experience in California Employment Law
Todd M. Friedman is recognized as one of California’s leading employment law attorneys. His 11-time Super Lawyer designation reflects peer recognition, court respect, and a track record of results. We understand California employment law in depth, including cutting-edge issues like the current evolution of PAGA rules, FEHA protections, wage and hour requirements, and retaliation doctrine.
Nearly $1 Billion in Recovered Compensation
Our clients have recovered nearly $1 billion collectively in wages, damages, and settlements. These figures reflect successful outcomes in wrongful termination cases, discrimination claims, wage and hour litigation, and class actions affecting hundreds or thousands of workers. When you hire us, you’re hiring attorneys who know how to win and how to maximize recovery.
Contingency Representation: No Fee Unless We Win
You should never have to pay upfront to fight for your rights. We represent clients on contingency—meaning we advance all costs and take no fee unless we win. If we settle your case or win at trial, we recover our fees from the settlement or judgment. This means your recovery is our focus, and we only make money if you win.
Free Consultation with an Experienced Attorney
Call (877) 619-8966 to schedule a free, confidential consultation. You’ll speak with an experienced attorney who will listen to your situation, explain your rights, and advise you on the strength of your potential claim. No obligation. No pressure. Just honest legal guidance.
5,000+ Satisfied Clients
Over years of practice, we’ve represented more than 5,000 California workers and consumers. These clients have faced the same fears and uncertainties you may be facing now—but they chose to fight back with legal representation. Many recovered substantial compensation and received the justice they deserved.
Local Knowledge & Understanding
We understand Torrance’s economic landscape, major employers, industry practices, and local courts. We know the judges in Torrance’s courthouse (Los Angeles County Superior Court) and understand how employment cases are handled locally. This local insight, combined with our statewide expertise, means you get representation tailored to Torrance’s unique employment environment.
Our Process: From Free Consultation to Resolution
1
Free Consultation
Contact us at (877) 619-8966 or through our website to schedule your free, confidential consultation. You’ll discuss your situation with an experienced attorney who will listen carefully, ask detailed questions, and begin to assess your potential claim. This conversation is entirely confidential and comes with no obligation.
2
Investigation & Legal Analysis
If we accept your case, we conduct a thorough investigation. This typically includes reviewing employment documents (offer letters, employee handbooks, performance reviews, termination letters), gathering your testimony, identifying witnesses, obtaining personnel records, and researching applicable law. We’ll analyze whether your employer’s conduct violated California employment law and what damages you may be entitled to recover.
3
Demand Letter or Administrative Filing
Depending on the type of claim, we may file with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) for discrimination/harassment claims, the Labor Commissioner for wage and hour matters, or send a demand letter to your employer. These early steps often prompt serious settlement discussions and demonstrate to your employer that you have competent legal representation.
4
Settlement Negotiations
Most employment cases settle before trial. We are skilled negotiators who understand settlement leverage and know how to value cases. We’ll present your claim persuasively, often involving mediation with a neutral third party. Throughout negotiations, we keep you informed and advise you on whether proposed settlements adequately compensate your harm.
5
Litigation (If Necessary)
If settlement isn’t possible, we prepare for trial. This includes discovery (exchanging documents and taking depositions), legal motions, expert witness preparation, and trial strategy. We’re prepared to take your case all the way through trial if necessary and have a strong track record of success in court.
6
Recovery & Resolution
Whether through settlement or trial victory, we ensure you receive your compensation. We handle all the paperwork, coordinate payments, and ensure any tax or lien issues are addressed properly. Our job isn’t done until you’re made whole.
Throughout this process, you pay nothing. We fund the case, manage all litigation costs, and we only collect a fee if we win. This means you can focus on moving forward with your life while we fight for your rights and recovery.
Torrance Employment Legal Resources & Community Context
If you’re dealing with an employment issue in Torrance, it’s helpful to understand the local resources and context available to you.
Legal Jurisdiction: Los Angeles County Superior Court
Employment disputes in Torrance are typically resolved in the Los Angeles County Superior Court system. The Torrance courthouse handles cases from Torrance and surrounding communities. We are familiar with the judges, procedures, and local rules that govern employment litigation in this court, giving you the advantage of local expertise when your case is filed.
California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
For discrimination and harassment claims, you have the right to file a complaint with the DFEH (now part of the California Civil Rights Department). Filing with DFEH is often a strategic first step before pursuing litigation. We advise clients on the benefits and implications of DFEH complaints and handle filing if appropriate.
California Labor Commissioner
For wage and hour violations, unpaid wages, and certain retaliation claims, the California Labor Commissioner (part of the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement) offers an administrative forum. We can represent you before the Labor Commissioner, often achieving faster resolutions than civil court litigation.
Torrance’s Business & Employment Environment
Torrance’s strong aerospace and automotive industries mean many employees work under federal compliance frameworks, security clearance requirements, and strict manufacturing standards. These specialized industries create unique legal issues. Our experience with aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing employment disputes means we understand the special pressures and regulations your industry faces.
Language Access & Diverse Workforce Support
Torrance’s diverse population and significant Japanese-American community mean many workers face language barriers or cultural differences that unscrupulous employers exploit. We take these factors seriously and work with interpreters and cultural consultants when necessary to ensure full understanding and zealous advocacy.
South Bay Community Support Services
Torrance Memorial Medical Center, community health centers, and local nonprofits offer support services for workers dealing with stress, anxiety, or health impacts from employment disputes. While we handle the legal side, we encourage clients to access these community resources for their overall well-being.
We Serve Torrance & Surrounding South Bay Communities
While we focus on Torrance, we represent workers throughout the South Bay and greater Los Angeles area. If you work or worked in any of these nearby communities, we can help:
South Bay Cities: Redondo Beach, Gardena, Carson, Lomita, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes, Manhattan Beach, El Segundo
Greater Los Angeles: We represent workers throughout California, with particular focus on Los Angeles County employment matters. Our office in Woodland Hills is centrally located for South Bay clients, and we offer phone and video consultations for maximum convenience.
Statewide Representation: California employment law is our focus, and we handle cases across the state. Whether your employment issue arose in Torrance or anywhere in California, call us for a free consultation.
Our Office Location
Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C.
21031 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 340
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Phone: (877) 619-8966
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
We offer flexible scheduling, evening and weekend appointments by arrangement, phone consultations, and video consultations for client convenience.
Don’t Let Your Employer’s Wrongdoing Go Unchallenged
You have rights under California law. If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, discriminated against, harassed, denied wages, or retaliated against, you deserve an attorney who will fight for you.
Todd M. Friedman and the team at Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C. have recovered nearly $1 billion for California workers. We’re ready to fight for you on contingency—no fee unless we win.
Call Now: (877) 619-8966Free Consultation • Confidential • No Obligation • No Fee Unless We Win
Frequently Asked Questions About Employment Law in Torrance
What should I do immediately if I believe my employer violated my rights?
First, document everything: save emails, texts, performance reviews, and any written communications related to the violation. Write down what happened, when it happened, who was involved, and any witnesses. Don’t delete anything from your work computer or email—these records can be crucial evidence. If it’s safe to do so, report the violation to HR or your employer’s internal compliance procedures. Then, contact an employment attorney for a free consultation. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better—some claims have filing deadlines.
How long do I have to file an employment law claim in California?
Filing deadlines vary by claim type. For FEHA discrimination/harassment claims, you typically must file with the DFEH within 3 years of the violation (though administrative complaint timelines are stricter). For FMLA violations, you have 2 years. For wage and hour claims under state law, you have 3 years for unpaid wages. For retaliation claims, the statute of limitations varies. Because deadlines are complex and vary, it’s critical to contact an attorney promptly. Don’t let time run out on your claim.
Can my employer retaliate against me for reporting violations or filing a complaint?
Absolutely not. California law strictly prohibits retaliation against employees who report violations, file complaints, request accommodations, take protected leave, or engage in other protected activities. Retaliation can include demotion, reduced hours, adverse assignments, hostile treatment, or termination. If you suffer any adverse action after protected activity, you may have a retaliation claim. We can evaluate your situation and advise you of your rights.
How much does it cost to hire an employment attorney?
Employment law is our focus, and we represent clients on contingency. That means you pay no upfront fees. We advance all litigation costs. We only collect a fee if we win your case—either through settlement or trial verdict. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, agreed upon in advance. This arrangement ensures that your recovery is our focus and that you never have to pay to fight for your rights.
Do I have a wrongful termination claim if my employer fired me?
Not every termination is wrongful. California is at-will employment, meaning employers can generally fire you for any legal reason. However, you cannot be terminated for unlawful reasons, including discrimination, retaliation for protected activity, refusal of illegal conduct, or violations of public policy. To know whether you have a wrongful termination claim, you need to consult with an employment attorney. Call us for a free consultation and we’ll evaluate your specific situation.
What is the value of an employment law settlement or judgment?
Damages in employment cases can include lost wages, emotional distress, damage to professional reputation, medical expenses, and punitive damages for especially egregious conduct. In discrimination cases, damages can be substantial. In wage and hour cases, you recover unpaid wages plus penalties. In wrongful termination cases, you can recover front pay, back pay, and emotional distress damages. The value of your specific case depends on your lost wages, the severity of the violation, and available evidence. We evaluate your case individually and advise you of likely recovery range.
