In the state of California, if you work for someone else as an employee, your employment rights are extensive, and they are rights guaranteed by both state and federal laws. Title 7 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating on the basis of an employee’s race, religion, gender, or national origin. If you work for a smaller employer with 5 to 14 employees, you are protected in this state by the California Fair Employment and Housing Act of 1959. If you are the victim of workplace discrimination – you are paid improperly, you are harassed, your workplace is unsafe, or you’ve been wrongly terminated – discuss your circumstances and legal rights as quickly as possible with an experienced San Francisco workplace harassment attorney.
Although employee protection is more extensive in California than in any other state, there are still some exceptions allowed. Title 7 regulations establish exceptions for Native American tribes, religious groups performing work connected to the group’s activities including associated educational institutions, and bona fide nonprofit, private membership organizations. Still, the overwhelming majority of employees in California enjoy substantial legal rights and the protection of those rights. If you face discrimination at your job, you need an attorney who routinely handles employment discrimination cases and has substantial experience advocating for the victims of employment discrimination. You’ll also want an attorney who can explain how the discrimination laws apply in your particular circumstance and an attorney who keeps the lines of communications open and keeps you informed regarding the progress of your case.
If you face any kind of discrimination at work because of your race, religion, gender, disability, or pregnancy, it needs to stop. The people of California will not tolerate employment discrimination, and the laws their legislators have passed express and reflect that unshakeable commitment. If you are dealing with harassment, hostility, or a wage-and-hour issue that needs to be resolved, discuss your rights and options immediately with an experienced San Francisco workplace harassment attorney.
