Selma Employment Lawyer

The experienced Selma employment lawyers at Fishman, Larsen & Callister are dedicated to defending businesses and employers against legal claims. Our skilled defense attorneys provide strategic legal counsel to ensure companies are protected from wrongful termination claims, wage and hour disputes, discrimination claims, and other employment-related legal issues.

We work closely with business owners, human resources professionals, and management teams to develop proactive strategies that mitigate risk and ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws.

California’s complex employment laws can be difficult to navigate. The knowledgeable defense attorneys at Fishman, Larsen & Callister can represent employers in a variety of employment law matters, vigorously defending against employee claims.

Some of our practice areas include:

Wrongful Termination: Wrongful termination claims can pose a significant risk to businesses. Our attorneys work to demonstrate lawful termination practices that help employers mitigate liabilities and avoid expensive litigation. We can help businesses put together proper termination procedures to minimize the risk of future claims.

Discrimination and Harassment: Employers may face discrimination or harassment claims under such laws as the Fair Employment and Housing Act. This could require defense against allegations of workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, and retaliation, ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination laws while protecting the company’s reputation.

Wage and Hour Compliance: California’s wage and hour laws are strict. Our defense attorneys can assist employers in wage and hour disputes, including claims involving overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and minimum wage compliance. This can also involve off-the-clock work, non-reimbursed expenses, and inaccurate or incomplete itemized wage statements or pay stubs. We also perform wage and hour audits designed to minimize claims against the company.

Employee Handbook and Policy Development: A well-drafted employee handbook can help mitigate legal risks. Our team can assist with creating, reviewing, and updating handbooks to ensure they comply with the newest labor laws and regulations.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution: When disputes arise, having a skilled Selma employment lawyer on your side is essential for protecting your company. In addition to representing clients in state and federal court, a workplace defense attorney can provide mediation and arbitration to resolve conflicts.

Workplace Investigation: A workplace investigation can help employers address internal complaints to ensure disciplinary actions are legally sound and defensible.

Employment Contracts: Having an experienced attorney review employment contracts, severance agreements, and non-compete agreements is essential in protecting the employer’s interests and legality.

Safety and Health Disputes: Since the COVID-19 crisis, there has been an increase in health and safety-related claims. We can assist with establishing policies that comply with the CDC and Department of Health guidelines.

Unemployment Insurance Hearings: We can help businesses challenge illegitimate unemployment claims to prevent unnecessary financial burdens.

EEOC & DFEH Investigations: Navigating investigations by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) can be complex. Our attorneys can help mitigate the risks so you can avoid costly penalties.

False Claims Act Violations: If your company is accused of defrauding a government program, we can help gather documentation and evidence that refutes the charges.

FMLA and Leave Disputes: There has been an increased need for litigation since the Family and Medical Leave Act began. We can investigate disputes and handle complaints about pregnancy, disability, and paid sick leave.

Workers’ Compensation: We represent employers in petitions related to claims outside of workers’ compensation insurance called 132a cases.

Labor Commissioner Proceedings: Wage disputes often lead to Labor Commissioner proceedings. We provide legal support to protect your business from unjust claims.

Employee Criminal Records: There are laws in effect surrounding criminal background checks for employees. We can walk you through these laws and help your business stay legally compliant.

No business is entirely immune to litigation, even with strong human resources policies. Fishman, Larsen & Callister have extensive experience representing employers in various litigation matters.

Q: What Is Considered Discrimination in the Workplace?

A: A discrimination claim within the workplace involves an employee or job applicant being treated differently or unfairly due to their particular characteristics. Some examples of discrimination include unfair treatment or harassment based on a worker’s sexual orientation, gender, disability, or race. Discrimination can also apply to religion or family and medical differences.

Employees who are discriminated against may take legal action, so it is important for employers to address any complaints promptly and appropriately.

Q: Are Non-Compete Agreements Enforceable in California?

A: In the context of employment law, non-compete agreements are not enforceable in California. Any contract that restricts a worker’s ability to take part in a lawful business, trade, or profession is void and cannot be enforced in the state. Employers can use confidentiality agreements to protect trade secrets or business information.

Q: Can an Employer Make an Employee Take a Drug Test in California?

A: An employer can require an employee to take a drug test, but regulations may vary by industry and circumstance. Private employers can implement drug testing policies, especially in safety-sensitive positions or industries that are regulated by federal law, such as transportation. Employers need to be sure their drug testing policies are compliant with state laws, anti-discrimination regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.

Q: What Should I Do if an Employee Files a Wrongful Termination Claim?

A: If an employee files a wrongful termination claim against you, you must take prompt and strategic action to protect your business from liability. California is an at-will employment state, so termination is only wrongful if it is for an illegal reason. Immediately contact an employment attorney to assess the claim’s validity, review employment policies, and build a strong defense.

The employment laws in California tend to favor employees, so properly handling these claims is vital.

If you need a skilled Selma employment lawyer to defend your business, call the law offices of Fishman, Larsen & Callister today. Our defense attorneys can provide the legal representation necessary to protect your company.

We understand that employment disputes can disrupt operations and put your company at risk. That’s why we tailor legal solutions to your specific business needs. Whether you require immediate legal representation or proactive compliance strategies, our team can help.