In California, all workers are protected by laws meant to ensure safe and healthy work environments. It doesn’t matter what your race is, where you were born, or your immigration status. When you are hired, or even during the hiring process, you have the right to defend yourself against any injustice. It is essential to know that you have the right to complain or file a legal claim if your employer is violating your rights.
In California, workers have the following rights:
- Employers must provide a safe work environment, free from discrimination and harassment.
- Workers must receive rest time (10 minutes of rest for every four hours worked and 30 minutes of uninterrupted time so that the employee can eat, carry out personal tasks, etc.)
- Workers must be paid for overtime hours worked (only if they work more than 8 hours per day or more than 40 hours per week.)
- Workers must be reimbursed for necessary business expenses that occur as a direct result of the job.
When you are the victim of injustice at work, you can take steps to receive the justice you deserve. Unfortunately, many workers do not report to their employer because they are concerned that the employer may respond negatively and even retaliate. Although it is difficult to start the process, do not forget that the law is on your side.
It is illegal for employers to threaten or retaliate against you for taking legal action to protect your rights. Your employer cannot fire you, threaten you, change your assignment, or give you less desirable jobs. This applies regardless of your immigration status in the United States. Not being a citizen does not mean that you have to tolerate injustice.
At Aiman-Smith & Marcy, we understand how frustrating and difficult these situations can be, and we are ready to help you.
