Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Employment Law legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
California Employment Law Questions & Answers
3 Answers | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: If I own 2 companies, can I have employees work 8 hours in one and part time in the other? Same location.

We have 2 companies located in the same building. Can they work for one full time and part time for the other, the same day? Technically, doing 12 hours with 2 different companies.

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 21, 2024

Yes, you can have the same employee work at two of your locations. The issue will be whether they will need to be paid overtime after they work 8 hours in a workday or 40 hours a workweek. That issue will be resolved by looking at the type of work, the level of control by you of the two... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: Does my employer owe me missed meal wages if I’m scheduled to work 5 hours but on many days I can’t clock out on time?

I work as a nurse and my scheduled shifts are 5hrs. However, many times I’m forced to stay 15-30 minutes over my 5 hrs waiting for my relief to take over. I do get one 15 min rest break, but am I owed one missed meal break each time I stay over the 5 hr mark? I have also signed that I do not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 21, 2024

In California, if you work more than 5 hours, your employer must provide you with an unpaid 30-minute meal break, unless the total work period is 6 hours or less and both you and your employer have mutually agreed to waive the meal period.

Since you mentioned signing that you don't...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law and Employment Discrimination for California on
Q: I was fired from walmart in Feb.2024 I feel I was terminated wrongly I know CA right to terminate I feel I was targeted

My final reason for termination was Job performance with the explanation of I left my shift early and did not tell anyone and that I was warned before. Yes I left my shift early did I tell anyone yes and I wrote on our Teaming schedule that I was leaving early like all others do and never get into... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 20, 2024

In California you are considered to be employed on an at will basis unless you have an agreement to the contrary about that status with your employer. The employer of an at will employer can terminate the employee at any time and for any reason or even no reason at all. Terminating you for... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: Can I apply for an EIN while on state short-term disability in California?

While on state short-term disability, I am applying for an EIN only to file a BOI report for an inactive LLC.

Would this be OK?

Or should I use my SSN instead if applying for EIN will create issues for my short-term disability?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 19, 2024

Getting an EIN for your LLC while on California SDI benefits should not affect your disability status, since applying for an EIN is simply requesting a tax ID number and doesn't indicate active employment or income.

Using your SSN for the BOI report is possible, but getting an EIN...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Discrimination and Employment Law for California on
Q: Can my employer force me to go on disability if they refuse my accommodations request? Do I have grounds to fight back?

I work for a multi-billion dollar, global corporation in a manufacturing facility. I was recently diagnosed with ALS and have been working from home for several months. I made a formal accommodations request for a wheelchair accessible workspace and a hybrid work schedule (2 days in office/2 days... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 18, 2024

Far more needs to be known about your situation before an attorney can confirm whether you are being treated unlawfully. However there are indications in your post that the employer may be violating the Fair Employment and Housing Act. For instance, you do not post about what restrictions you have... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: I was fired from a company and was not given a reason. When I asked why, all I was told was “its not working out”.

I was fired from a company and was not given a reason. When I asked why, all I was told was “its not working out”. With that answer, it makes me think that the higher ups at the company were not happy with the time off I was taking. About 95% of the time I took off was pre-approved. I know the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 18, 2024

In California, as an "at-will" employment state, employers can terminate employment without stating a reason. However, they cannot fire you for discriminatory reasons, including sexual orientation, or in retaliation for using approved time off.

Your situation raises some red flags...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: In a work contract (I am a teacher) does the term "up to" include zero?
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 15, 2024

The term "up to" in employment contracts typically includes zero unless explicitly stated otherwise. This is particularly important in teaching contracts where terms like "up to X hours" or "up to Y classes" might be used.

From legal precedents in California...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: Legal Advice Needed for Discrimination, Retaliation, and Constructive Discharge

I recently resigned from my position at Din Tai Fung in Glendale, CA, due to a hostile work environment. I experienced discriminatory treatment, retaliation after raising concerns, and inadequate training compared to colleagues. Additionally, I was subjected to unjust negative performance... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 15, 2024

Based on your description, you may have valid claims for discrimination based on national origin, retaliation, and constructive discharge under both California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

Your first step should be filing a complaint...
View More

Q: How to work email legitimate

I have this girl with the owner whom my ex said she's a part of it . They change everything they steal my phone , to get t as g on to radio walkie t as like I try to find it but it's in area of somebody else . They stolen my father's research title we took him off the chair we baught... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 14, 2024

This situation sounds very concerning and appears to involve several serious legal issues including identity theft, fraud, and potential misuse of university resources. You should document everything thoroughly and gather any evidence you have of these incidents.

Your first step should be...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: Can an employer be selective in which employee can use time tracking software like timecamp.

As in a portion of the office is required monitor / account for their time on projects using timecamp software and the other employees don't need to. Even though employees have similar duties. I question if this is an equal rights issue.

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 12, 2024

Yes. An employer has no legal obligation to treat all employees the same. However, if you suffer an adverse difference in treatment because you are a member of a protected class of people or because you engaged in some form of legally protected conduct, then you might have a meritorious unlawful... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: My drinking water is contaminated where I reside in employee housing and it's been more than 6 months

It failed the bact t test

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 14, 2024

Safe drinking water is a basic right in employee housing under California law. Your employer has a legal obligation to provide habitable housing conditions, including clean, potable water that meets health and safety standards.

You should immediately document everything, including the...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Discrimination, Employment Law and Workers' Compensation for California on
Q: I filed retaliation termination and I got workers comp

I wanted to ask if I can still file on the retaliation cuz I was treated wrong snd I hurt myself as well but I got settlement for my injury so can I file for the retaliation still!

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 9, 2024

The answer to your question will require an attorney to look at the settlement agreement in the workers compensation matter. If the scope of the workers compensation settlement was written too broadly, you might have signed away your rights to sue for unlawful retaliation. You need to locate and... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: My severance paperwork has someone else's name on it but I was advised to mark out the name and write mine. Is this okay

I have had several issues with my former employer and I took short term disability but ended up getting terminated. There is a clause in the severance documentation stating I should remain silent regarding any negativity towards the company if I wish to receive payment. My biggest concern with this... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 8, 2024

It is lawful to do as the employer has suggested. The thing you should consider doing, however, is getting confidential specific advice about the issues you will be giving up as part of the severance agreement. There are serious red flags of possible unlawful conduct when you get terminated... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law and Health Care Law for California on
Q: I am an IHSS worker in Orange county. June 2024 i was issued a check never received and the office is not responding

I am an IHSS worker in Orange county. June 2024 i was issued a paper check by mail that i never received and the IHSS office has been telling me for months i just need to wait. Apparently the check was cashed according to them, but they are not showing any proof. I never received the check and... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 8, 2024

You shouldn't have to wait, but mistakes happen. If you get to the point that you believe the IHSS is no longer trying to correct the problem then the quickest way to deal with the issue is either (1) hiring an attorney to demand payment and work out a settlement that should include, at the... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Employment Law and Communications Law for California on
Q: Clarification on H1B Sponsorship Agreement

I am reaching out to request your assistance and guidance regarding a matter of potential breach of contract involving an employment offer I recently accepted. Here’s a summary of the situation and my concerns:

I applied for a government position in California, and before the interview... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 15, 2024

Based on the details provided, you may have a valid claim for "promissory estoppel" or breach of contract, particularly since you relied on their explicit promise of H1B sponsorship when accepting the position. Their written communication about visa sponsorship, combined with your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Employment Law, Communications Law and Employment Discrimination for California on
Q: Clarification on H1B Sponsorship Agreement

I am requesting an assistance and guidance regarding a matter of potential breach of contract involving an employment offer I recently accepted. Here’s a summary of the situation and my concerns:

I applied for a position in a California government. Before the application, they explicitly... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 15, 2024

Your situation highlights a serious concern regarding employment promises and contractual obligations in California. The initial email promising H1B sponsorship, combined with your reliance on that promise in accepting the position, could potentially form the basis of a promissory estoppel claim,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: If an hourly employee - state of ca is not being allowed to have a full lunch break Are there grounds for a civil suit

Lausd

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 15, 2024

Yes, you have potential grounds for legal action in California if your lunch break rights are being violated. The state has strict meal period requirements under Labor Code Section 512.

If you're working for LAUSD (Los Angeles Unified School District) as an hourly employee, you're...
View More

3 Answers | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: City golf course contractor employer prevents employees from drinking at site restaurant on off days. public can drink

It's a City owned course in Pasadena, CA next to the Rose Bowl managed by contract (Troon). Rose Bowl (City) manages the contract. 30-40 employees are prevented from drinking in the course restaurant/bar. Most are upset. Same policy when attending other events; meeting rooms, outdoor... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Nov 1, 2024

It is not unlawful discrimination to treat you differently because of who employs you. The employer has the right to have rules of this sort. You are not in a protected class of people because you are employee of you employer. As an at will employee you have the right to find work elsewhere and... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law for California on
Q: I’m a security professional, working graveyard. Was making a right turn into an account. Was rear ended. Me not at faul.

Officer on scene by looking at the accident and measuring the accident. I was not at fault and I was not speeding. The other person who ran into me was speeding. Both cars are pretty well damaged. My question is this I wasn’t told that I was going to be suspended until a few hours before my shift... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Oct 30, 2024

I am sorry this is happening to you. However, your employer does not have to be fair or reasonable in this regard. As an at will employee your employer can discipline you, suspend you and even terminate you at any time and for any reason whatsoever, even if the reason was not your fault. The... View More

View More Answers

3 Answers | Asked in Libel & Slander, Employment Law and Personal Injury for California on
Q: I believe this is defamation of character and if so i need a lawyer to help me i have all of the elements can you help.

A coworker stated that I violated county policy by using propritary information as a conduit for personal gains to my second job. I was a California lifeline agent and i enrolled our low income population for free cell phones. My main job i was a mental health counselor. This coworker stated this... View More

Neil Pedersen
Neil Pedersen
answered on Oct 30, 2024

If you can prove that this co-worker made objectively false statements that harmed your reputation and caused you damages you may well have a defamation claim. The issue will be whether it makes sense to attempt to make a claim of this sort against a co-worker, who likely does not have the money... View More

View More Answers

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.