Your Rights If You Were Retaliated Against at Work in California
It is unlawful for an employer to discriminate against you or punish you for engaging in a protected activity. If this occurs, it may amount to employer retaliation. Employer or workplace retaliation violates state and federal law and may result in liability. If your employer has taken adverse action against you for filing a complaint, taking family leave, or engaging in another protected activity, you need to speak with an attorney.
At Levin & Nalbandyan, we provide experienced representation for individuals who have suffered employer retaliation in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Our lawyers will help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. If you were the victim of workplace retaliation, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation.
What Does Employer Retaliation Mean in California?
Employer retaliation refers to when an employer or an agent of the employer punishes someone for engaging in a protected activity. The punishment may be any form of adverse action.
Retaliatory acts may include:
- Wrongful termination
- Passing over for a promotion
- Withholding wages
- Reducing hours
- Demotion
- Job reassignment
If your employer took negative action against you in retaliation for something, you need to speak with an attorney. Depending on the circumstances, you might be entitled to compensation.
What Are Protected Activities?
Protected activities include those that are allowed under state or federal law. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, protected activities encompass a wide range of conduct.
Protected activities include:
- Reporting harassing conduct
- Reporting discrimination
- Filing a harassment claim
- Providing assistance during an investigation
- Complaining about discrimination or harassment in the workplace
- Disclosing or reporting legal violations
- Reporting fraud or abuse
- Filing a Whistleblower lawsuit
- Participating in Whistleblower proceedings
- Taking family leave
It is essential to take action immediately if you suspect that your employer is retaliating against you for engaging in a protected activity. Retaliation can take many forms. It is not always obvious. Even the threat to take action may be considered retaliatory.
The Effects of Employer Retaliation
Left unchecked, employer retaliation can result in serious harm to your career. Your work environment may become hostile, or you may simply not be able to grow with your company. Shedding light on your employer’s actions can help stop the conduct and hold them accountable for their wrongdoing.
An attorney can help you understand your rights and will work with you to determine the best course of legal action. It is important to act quickly, as you may only have a limited amount of time to file a claim.
Contact Our Office for a Free Case Evaluation
If you believe that your employer retaliated against you for filing a claim or another protected activity, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free case consultation. Our lawyers are here to help. You deserve to work in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, or retaliation. Call our office now for your confidential case evaluation. There are no fees unless we win.
