Bakersfield Employment Law Attorneys

Serving the Needs of Employees & Employers

Workplace issues can quickly turn into legal problems. If you are an employee who is in need of legal guidance, you can trust in the experience and skill of our Bakersfield employment lawyers at Webber & Egbert Employment Law, P.C. Our firm is committed to providing you with the high-quality legal guidance you deserve.

Call our office at (661) 464-7940 today to request a free consultation.

Employment Law Services

Our Bakersfield employment law attorneys handle a wide range of employment law matters. Whether you are an employee or an employer, we are ready to help you.

Our Employee Rights Services

• Minimum Wage Laws
• Overtime
• Meal and Rest Breaks
• Vacation 
• Sick Leave 
• Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Sexual Harassment
• Employment Discrimination
• Wrongful Termination
• Whistleblower & Retaliation
• Employee vs. Independent Contractor
• Breach of Employment Contract

What Should You Do If You Think Your Rights Have Been Violated at Work?

If you believe your rights have been violated at work, it is crucial to take immediate and thoughtful action to protect yourself and potentially rectify the situation. Here are some steps you can follow:

• Document Everything: Start by meticulously documenting every detail related to the incident. This includes dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and any witnesses. Keep copies of any relevant communications, such as emails, memos, or texts. Detailed records will serve as vital evidence should you need to escalate the issue.
• Review Company Policies: Familiarize yourself with your company's internal policies and procedures regarding grievances and complaints. Understanding your employer's formal process can guide you in taking the appropriate steps within the organization before seeking external assistance.
• Report the Issue Internally: If it feels safe to do so, report the violation to your immediate supervisor, HR department, or any designated official within your company. Be clear and concise in your communication, sticking to the facts and providing your documented evidence. Many companies have established procedures for handling such complaints confidentially and fairly.
• Seek Support: Consider reaching out to trusted colleagues, a union representative (if applicable), or employee support groups within your workplace. These resources can provide additional support and guidance through the process.
• Consult an Employment Lawyer: If internal resolution efforts fail or you face retaliation, consulting an experienced employment lawyer is critical. They can offer expert advice on your rights, help you understand your options, and guide you through filing a formal complaint with relevant government agencies or pursuing legal action if necessary.
• File a Complaint with the EEOC: If the issue pertains to discrimination, harassment, or other rights violations protected under federal or state law, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

What is Retaliation, and How Can You Recognize It?

Retaliation in the workplace occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activity, such as filing a complaint about discrimination or harassment, participating in an investigation, or asserting their rights under labor laws. Recognizing retaliation is crucial for safeguarding your rights and ensuring a fair work environment.

Retaliation can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to:

• Adverse Employment Actions: This includes demotion, suspension, termination, or any significant change in job duties or responsibilities. If you experience such actions shortly after engaging in a protected activity, it may indicate retaliation.
• Hostile Work Environment: Retaliation can also create a hostile or intimidating work environment. This might involve increased scrutiny, unjust criticism, exclusion from meetings or projects, or other behaviors that make your work environment unpleasant or untenable.
• Negative Performance Reviews: Suddenly receiving poor performance evaluations or being placed on a performance improvement plan without just cause, especially if your previous reviews were positive, can be a sign of retaliation.
• Reduction in Benefits: Retaliation can involve reducing your salary, benefits, or hours without a legitimate business reason, which directly impacts your financial and job security.
• Isolation or Ostracism: Being excluded from team activities, social events, or professional opportunities that you previously had access to can also be a form of retaliation.

If you suspect retaliation, it's essential to document the retaliatory actions, maintain records of your performance and any related communications, and consult with a Bakersfield employment lawyer. An attorney can help you assess the situation, determine if you have a valid claim, and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and seek justice.

FAQ

1. What types of employment law cases do you handle?
We handle a wide range of employment law matters, including minimum wage laws, overtime disputes, meal and rest breaks, sick leave, discrimination claims, wrongful termination, sexual harassment cases, whistleblower retaliation, and more.

2. How do I know if I have a case?
If you believe your rights have been violated at work—whether through discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, or retaliation—it’s crucial to consult with an employment lawyer. They can evaluate your situation, explain your rights, and advise you on potential legal actions.

3. What steps should I take if I feel my rights have been violated?
Start by documenting everything related to the incident, reviewing your company’s policies, reporting the issue internally, seeking support, and consulting an employment lawyer if needed.

4. What is retaliation, and how can I recognize it?
Retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activities, such as filing a complaint or participating in an investigation. Signs of retaliation can include demotion, hostile work environment, negative performance reviews, reduction in benefits, and isolation from colleagues.

5. How long do I have to file a complaint?
The timeline for filing a complaint can vary depending on the nature of the issue and whether you’re filing with a state agency or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It's best to act quickly and consult with an attorney to ensure you meet all deadlines.

6. Will my case go to trial?
Not all employment law cases go to trial. Many are resolved through negotiation or settlement. However, if a fair resolution cannot be reached, our team is prepared to represent you in court.

Discuss Your Needs with Our Team Today

Whether you need help with a workplace issue or you need guidance with a complex legal issue, our team is ready to help you. We are focused on providing our clients with the highest level of legal representation possible. We are proud of our exceptional track record of success.

Call our Bakersfield employment law attorneys at (661) 464-7940 to schedule a consultation.