Standing Up for Employees

The workplace should be a place where you are treated with dignity and respect, paid fairly for your work, and free from discrimination and harassment. When employers violate California's strong worker protection laws, employees deserve an advocate who will fight for their rights.

Alex Craig Law represents employees throughout California's Central Coast and Central Valley in a wide range of employment disputes. With nine years of in-house corporate counsel experience, Alex understands how employers think and uses that insight to help workers obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.

Wrongful Termination

California is an at-will employment state, but that doesn't give employers the right to fire workers for illegal reasons. You may have a wrongful termination claim if you were fired for:

  • Discrimination - Based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics
  • Retaliation - For reporting harassment, discrimination, or unlawful activity
  • Whistleblowing - For reporting illegal conduct to authorities or refusing to participate in illegal activity
  • Taking Protected Leave - For using FMLA, CFRA, pregnancy disability leave, or paid sick leave
  • Exercising Legal Rights - For filing a workers' compensation claim or wage complaint

Workplace Discrimination

California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides some of the strongest anti-discrimination protections in the nation. We represent employees facing discrimination based on:

  • Race, Color, or National Origin
  • Sex, Gender Identity, or Sexual Orientation
  • Age (40 and older)
  • Disability or Medical Condition - Including failure to provide reasonable accommodations
  • Religion
  • Pregnancy or Family Status
  • Military or Veteran Status

Strict Deadlines Apply

Employment claims in California are subject to strict deadlines. For most FEHA claims, you must file an administrative complaint within three years of the violation. Wage claims have shorter windows. Don't wait — contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Sexual Harassment

No one should have to endure sexual harassment to keep their job. California law protects employees from two types of harassment:

  • Quid Pro Quo Harassment - When a supervisor conditions employment benefits on sexual favors
  • Hostile Work Environment - When unwelcome conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive workplace

Wage & Hour Violations

California has some of the strongest wage and hour protections in the country. Common violations include:

  • Unpaid Overtime - California requires overtime after 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week
  • Missed Meal & Rest Breaks - Employees are entitled to paid rest breaks and unpaid meal periods
  • Off-the-Clock Work - Being required to work without pay
  • Misclassification - Wrongly classified as an independent contractor or exempt employee
  • Minimum Wage Violations - Being paid less than California's minimum wage
  • Final Paycheck Issues - Employers must pay all wages owed upon termination

Other Employment Matters

  • Retaliation Claims - When employers punish workers for asserting their rights
  • Severance Agreement Review - Ensuring you understand and negotiate fair terms before signing
  • Non-Compete & Non-Solicitation Disputes - California generally disfavors restrictive covenants
  • Leave of Absence Issues - FMLA, CFRA, and pregnancy disability leave disputes
  • Reasonable Accommodation Denials - For employees with disabilities or medical conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be fired for any reason in California?

While California is an at-will employment state, employers cannot fire you for illegal reasons such as discrimination, retaliation for reporting illegal activity, or taking legally protected leave. If you suspect your termination was unlawful, consult with an attorney to evaluate your case.

How long do I have to file an employment claim?

Deadlines vary by claim type. For most FEHA discrimination and harassment claims, you have three years to file with the California Civil Rights Department. Wage claims typically have a three-year statute of limitations, though some have shorter windows. It's best to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Do I have to pay upfront for an employment attorney?

Many employment cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Some matters, such as severance review or contract negotiation, may be handled on a flat fee or hourly basis. We'll discuss fee arrangements during your free consultation.

Should I sign a severance agreement?

Never sign a severance agreement without having it reviewed by an attorney. Severance agreements typically require you to waive significant legal rights, and there may be room to negotiate better terms. We can review your agreement and advise you on your options.