Employment litigation attorneys protect workers’ rights under California law. Their primary focus is on helping employees recoup damages when their employers fail to provide a safe workplace. This can result from retaliatory practices, discrimination, racism, failing to pay employees overtime or for all hours worked, and various other issues. As employment lawyers Los Angeles, they fight vigorously for their clients, firmly believing that employees deserve to work in environments that are comfortable, productive, and safe, allowing them every opportunity to thrive. When their clients are victimized, they aggressively and relentlessly pursue justice.
With that in mind, it is important to understand that they are not against employers. They would much prefer that employees experience a positive workplace conducive to their career goals and happiness. They recognize that employment laws change and that issues can arise beyond an employer’s awareness. The following tips can help California employers understand employee workplace rights and maintain compliance, which can prevent lawsuits, disgruntled employees, and high turnover rates.
Most Common Reasons Employees File Lawsuits Against Their Employer
The most common types of employee workplace lawsuits in California include:
- Sexual harassment: Sexual harassment can come in many forms, including unwanted jokes or gestures, digital media, and flirting. If an employee is sexually harassed and the matter is not resolved to their satisfaction, a lawsuit may very well be the next step taken.
- Wrongful Termination: As an employer in California, you must follow and adhere to California laws regarding terminating an employee. Although an at-will state, employers cannot terminate employees based on their race, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. Employees cannot be fired for exercising their legal rights, such as reporting sexual harassment.
- Discrimination: There is no room for discrimination in the workplace in 2024 and beyond. This includes discrimination based on race and other protected characteristics. Lawsuits alleging discrimination are common in California, and if you are not up-to-date with discrimination laws and proactive in enforcing them, you could find yourself in a court of law.
How to Protect Your Company from a Lawsuit
Now that we’ve covered the most common reasons employees file lawsuits against their employers, let’s cover simple tips that can help protect workplace rights and keep your lawsuit and litigation-free
Provide Regular Training
According to Gallup, correctly training employees can increase company productivity by 17%. Additionally, 78% of employees said they are more inclined to stay with a company that provides ongoing and proper training. While you are training employees on OSHA compliance and other company standards, add a course on workplace rights. This course is invaluable to employees and helps ensure a productive environment for everyone.
Educated employees are powerful. Employees who understand not only correct operational procedures but also their rights know when rights violations occur and the steps to take to protect themselves. A company providing ongoing training that informs employees of their rights can significantly improve company morale and trust.
Enforce Clear Policies
Create an employee handbook that clearly outlines important information, procedures, and rules for employees. Cover everything from behavior to discrimination in the handbook, and ensure every employee receives a copy that can be used for reference if necessary.
Clear expectations outlined in black and white inside an employee handbook ensure rules are set in stone and accessible when necessary. Outlining company rules and regulations in a handbook helps prevent misunderstandings and safeguard your business in many situations.
Maintain a Professional Environment
A professional environment sets the standard for the team. Employees who have clear rules enforcing professionalism and observe their coworkers engage in respectful dialogue will likely follow suit.
A dress code that reflects company values and professionalism benefits
everyone. Enforce a dress code and respectful interactions within the company. Employees should understand that maintaining respect in all situations is not optional, but mandatory in the workspace.
Comply With California Laws
Workplace laws mandated by the state and federal government aim to protect employees and those who are well-informed will not hesitate to call our team if their rights are violated.
Stay informed of workplace laws that govern employee rights. Do not take shortcuts and maintain a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violations.
Lead by Example
As a leader, it is up to you to set standards for employees to model. When you lead by example, employees understand the level of professionalism and the behaviors expected of them. Employees often mimic the behavior of their superiors. Keep this in mind as you determine company policies and procedures and during the operation of your facility.
Provide superior leadership coupled with a supportive culture that encourages open communication, and you create an environment less at risk for a lawsuit.
Address Complaints Promptly
Ensure employees have a means of reporting issues faced within the workplace, whether it’s a hotline or a complaint box set up in the office. When a complaint is received, address it immediately. Investigate the complaint and keep those involved informed of the outcome. Even if you research and the complaint turns out to be unfounded, you’ve set the standard within your organization and show employees you will act legally, morally, and in their best interests when necessary.
These tips are some of the many ideas that employers can take to keep their business safe and lawsuit-free.
Protect Your Company and Employees
The cost of an employee lawsuit is considerable, financially and otherwise. An out-of-court claim costs businesses an average of $40,000 while cases that make it to the courtroom often lead to six-figure settlements. Our team of experienced employment litigation attorneys will fight to get every penny possible for our clients if they are forced to file a lawsuit against your business. We hope you take pride in your company, culture, and employees, and provide them with an enjoyable workplace that never leads to legal disputes.
