When it's time to talk to an employment attorney

Employers and employees can work together with an Orange County employment lawyer to solve any problem. This could include issues such as wage safety and discrimination, or termination. When is it appropriate to reach for help?

Employers and employees can work together to solve problems by hiring an employment attorney. An employment attorney can help you explain your rights and duties to both the employer and employee if there is a dispute about wages, workplace safety, or wrongful termination.

What is an Employment Attorney?

Two types of Orange County employment attorneys exist. The first focuses exclusively on plaintiffs and employees, sometimes referred to as employment discrimination attorneys, employment rights attorneys, or fees federal employment lawyers. The other focuses only on defendants or employers, also known as management attorneys.

An Orange County labor lawyer should focus on one side, but some will work with clients from both sides.

What does an Employment Attorney do?

An employment lawyer deals with all aspects of employment. This could include discrimination and wage and hour issues as well as safety issues under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Levitt explains that an employment lawyer can help employees determine if their rights are being violated and whether it is worth taking further action. The attorney will ensure that the employee exhausts all internal remedies. For example, the attorney can help them follow protocols to report harassment or discrimination. The attorney can assist the employee in navigating the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This will determine if there is a possibility that rights may have been violated.

Employers can easily violate a multitude of labor laws unknowingly or willfully. Because there are different thresholds for employee counts and tenure, it is helpful to seek guidance from an attorney.

What is the best time to seek advice?

Levitt states that employees should seek advice as soon as they believe something is wrong, and no solution is available from their employer. The employee doesn't have to seek out legal counsel immediately. If the employee believes they have been discriminated against, they can directly contact the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the state equivalent.

Levitt states, "If an employee works for a small business and the principal of that company is involved, then I would recommend the employee seek advice. The next step would be to file an administrative complaint with either the federal or state governments." This would be the first step beyond the company. The agency then investigates to determine if there is enough evidence to prove a violation and aids the employee in drafting a claim or charge.

Even if there is insufficient evidence, an employee can still file a lawsuit. The agency can either assist the employee or advise them to find an attorney. An employee should seek advice from an employment lawyer to learn about their rights and determine if they are eligible to file a lawsuit. Levitt explained that agency findings aren't binding and often not admissible because agencies don't conduct exhaustive investigations. Levitt says that the agency will visit some people to see them, but there are no depositions and no cross-examination. Even if an employee has a lawyer to assist them, the investigators of the agency conduct [the investigation] without the lawyer being involved.

The US Department of Justice may decide to accept a case. However, they only take very few cases. They will not take cases unless they seek to establish a national precedent or if a large company is involved with rampant discrimination or another equally serious matter.

Levitt points out that plaintiffs have won lawsuits even if the EEOC did not find merit. However, employers have also prevailed when it finds merit and the employee sues.

What can employees do to protect themselves?

Employees who feel they are being discriminated against or not being paid properly should keep detailed records, including dates and times. Notify witnesses. If the employee decides to take legal action, all of this information can be useful for the attorney or agency.

What can employers do?

Levitt warns that even small businesses should have an employment office. It should include policies and rules that ensure equal opportunities in employment. Employees should be able to file complaints with the company and make grievances about discrimination. Every employer must then investigate and decide if there was any illegal conduct.

What about freelancers?

Independent contractors are freelancers In effect, they are their businesses. They do not have the same rights as employees and are therefore not entitled to any benefits. Except for New York and California, which offer some protections to independent contractors, freelancers only have the rights provided by the agreements they make with companies. A freelancer is not an employee of a company.

If you are looking for an employment lawyer, do your research. A nationwide bar service rates lawyers and law firms (peer-rated, but not bought) is useful. You should also verify with your state's Bar Association to make sure they have not been involved in any disciplinary cases.

You may feel overwhelmed if your job has been unfairly terminated or you're being discriminated against or harassed at work.

You are probably concerned about the cost of hiring an Orange County employment lawyer with the right experience and resources.

You need to be aware of what to expect when you begin the process of hiring an employment lawyer.

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS - THE BASICS

Employers and employees often have disputes over employment-related issues like workplace discrimination, harassment, wage and hours issues, workplace safety and health, as well as family and medical leave issues.

Orange County employment lawyers can help you if you find yourself in this position. They will review your case against your employer, give you advice on the next steps, and ca learn the course of action. Most cases can be settled without going to court.

Sometimes, however, they might end up in front of a jury.

An experienced lawyer must be able to negotiate effectively and is ready to go to trial to challenge existing employment law.

An employment lawyer may not be necessary for all Orange County employment matters.

California employment law can be complex. It requires a lot of legal knowledge, especially if there are carrots at stake.

Employment laws are constantly changing. An experienced employment lawyer will be able to advise you about any changes that could affect your case.

HOW DOES AN EMPLOYMENT LAWYER ASSIST YOU?

These are some ways an employment lawyer can assist you in a workplace dispute case:

Understanding and Clarity

An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand complex employment laws and clarify the situation.

Understanding which employment laws apply in your situation could prove difficult because both federal and state employment laws govern Orange County employers and employees.

Expert employment lawyers are available to provide guidance and accurate information to assist you in making the right decisions.

Information about the Claim Process

A skilled employment lawyer will also know the steps involved in filing a claim or a lawsuit, and the deadlines to be adhered to.

file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, failing to follow the steps and meatal deadlines could lead to a denial.

One of the most crucial parts of any process is compiling all documents and submitting them by the deadline.

An Orange County employment lawyer you can trust will provide you with the support and guidance you need to weather any emotional storms.

This gives you the best chance of a positive outcome in your case.

Providing an Edge

Employer lawyer services can help you get the edge you need in your case.

Nearly every Orange County employer will have their own ers.

Larger companies may have a whole team of lawyers.

You may have difficulty holding your employer responsible for any illegal acts in the workplace. If you do not have qualified legal representation, they might not even consider your case or lawsuit serious.

Discovery

An employment lawyer can assist you with complicated court proceedings.

This is where lawyers question witnesses under oath before a judge.

Statements made in discovery may, and often will be used during the trial.

This process can often give plaintiffs considerable leverage depending on the facts of each case.

WHAT SHOULD A EMPLOYMENT LAWYER LOOK FOR?

An array of employment law issues is handled by attorneys, including breach of contract, privacy, severance and wage and hour, and other disputes.

It is important to consider the experience of the attorney and/or firm in this area, as well as their knowledge and fees.

An employment lawyer must be aware of all current and proposed federal labor laws.

Good employment lawyers will explain to you their fee structure at the outset so that everyone is on the same page regarding fees, billing, as well as other costs incurred in the course of the country.

A lawyer should give you an estimate of the time it will take to resolve your case.

These are Some Characteristics to Look for When You Hire an Employment Lawyer:

Employment Law Focus

Make sure that the law firm or lawyer you choose focuses on employment law.

A law firm that handles all cases is not what you want.

Employment law is a highly specialized field.

You can be sure that your lawyer is knowledgeable in this area.

Background Check

Most sites, including the California Bar Association, have information about whether an attorney has been disciplined.

An attorney must be a member.

A local attorney is likely to have a better understanding of California's employment laws.

The minimum wage in Orange County or San Francisco, for example, is different than the state minimum wage.

Advocate for Employees

Orange County lawyers should be advocates for workers, not employers or employees.

You can be certain that you are choosing the right lawyer for you. They will fight for your rights and get you the best outcome.

Special Experience

Look for someone with experience in representing cases similar to yours.

If you're considering filing a lawsuit against sexual harassment, it is important to find an employment lawyer who has successfully represented clients in similar cases.

Find a Orange County attorney with the right experience and expertise to represent your case.

Orange County employment lawyers are focused on employment law and have helped clients recover hundreds of millions of dollars. Kingsley and Kingsley are the choice of Orange County employees for employment law representation. They commit to helping clients financially and emotionally.

WHAT FEES DO ATTORNEYS EXPECT?

How much you pay for legal services can be affected by the arrangement you make.

The factors that affect attorney fees include the time taken to resolve your case, the ability of the lawyer to handle it, their experience and reputation, the challenge faced by the case, the final results achieved, and any actual costs.

Other factors that impact the total cost are overhead expenses such as rent utilities and office equipment.

These are the most common fee arrangements and cost structures used by lawyers:

• Consultation fees For the initial meeting, some attorneys may charge an hourly or fixed fee. The initial meeting will discuss your case details and determine whether or not the lawyer will accept your case. Be sure to find out if you will be charged for the initial meeting, and if so how much.
• Contingency fees The fee for a lawyer is usually a percentage of the amount that was awarded in the case. If you lose your case or don't receive compensation, your lawyer won't be paid a fee. However, you will be responsible for other expenses. While the percentage of your contingency fees may vary, it will usually be one-third. A sliding scale is offered by some lawyers depending on the progress of the case before settlement. A lawyer may also be limited in the number of contingency fees they can receive by the court.
• Flat fees A lawyer might charge a flat fee in certain cases. Although this type of flat fee is not common, it may be required in cases that are simple or routine.
• Hourly rate In these cases, the lawyer will charge by the hour or a portion of an hour that he/she spends on your case. This is the most common fee arrangement for lawyers. Depending on the type of work performed, some lawyers may charge different fees. Lawyers who work for large companies might also have different fee structures. As an example, senior or more experienced lawyers might charge higher fees than younger or paralegal lawyers.
• Referral fees A lawyer that refers you to another lawyer might take a percentage of the total fees. However, the total fee should be reasonable and you would need to agree to it.
• Retainer fees In such cases, the lawyer is paid a fixed fee. A retainer acts as a down payment that may be charged for future expenses. The retainer is usually placed in a special account, and the cost for services is taken from that account. These fees cannot be refunded.

Ask a lawyer to explain the costs and other expenses that are included in the fees.

Is it inclusive of overhead costs or other expenses? If so, will these be separately charged to you? What will be the cost for staff members, paralegals, and other employees?

Be sure to ask if contingency fees are charged by the law firm.

HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR RESPECTIVE RIGHTS?

There are steps you can take to protect your rights if you're facing harassment, discrimination, or a retaliatory workplace.

Keep Calm and Collected

Do not say anything to your employer about you that could be used against you in court. In these situations, it is important to keep calm and gather as much information as you can that may help strengthen your case. Do not speak up or be confrontational. This could backfire on you.

Report the Incidents Promptly

You must immediately report any hostile work environment to your supervisor or human resource department if you feel you are being discriminated against. You must file a written complaint and keep copies of any documents you submit.

Keep a Record of All Incidents

They can be internal memos or emails. Save them. This will help you determine the frequency with which harassment and discrimination took place. It is also a good idea if you have contact information for witnesses to the incidents.

Get help from experienced, proven attorneys

Most likely, your employer has an attorney or a team of attorneys to represent their best interests. If you allow them to, they will use every opportunity possible to devalue your case and take advantage of you. A strong advocate is necessary to protect your rights and look out for your best interests.

When it's time to talk to an employment attorney

Employers and employees can work together with an Orange County employment lawyer to solve any problem. This could include issues such as wage safety and discrimination, or termination. When is it appropriate to reach for help?

Employers and employees can work together to solve problems by hiring an employment attorney. An employment attorney can help you explain your rights and duties to both the employer and employee if there is a dispute about wages, workplace safety, or wrongful termination.

What is an Employment Attorney?

Two types of Orange County employment attorneys exist. The first focuses exclusively on plaintiffs and employees, sometimes referred to as employment discrimination attorneys, employment rights attorneys, or fees federal employment lawyers. The other focuses only on defendants or employers, also known as management attorneys.

An Orange County labor lawyer should focus on one side, but some will work with clients from both sides.

What does an Employment Attorney do?

An employment lawyer deals with all aspects of employment. This could include discrimination and wage and hour issues as well as safety issues under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Levitt explains that an employment lawyer can help employees determine if their rights are being violated and whether it is worth taking further action. The attorney will ensure that the employee exhausts all internal remedies. For example, the attorney can help them follow protocols to report harassment or discrimination. The attorney can assist the employee in navigating the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This will determine if there is a possibility that rights may have been violated.

Employers can easily violate a multitude of labor laws unknowingly or willfully. Because there are different thresholds for employee counts and tenure, it is helpful to seek guidance from an attorney.

What is the best time to seek advice?

Levitt states that employees should seek advice as soon as they believe something is wrong, and no solution is available from their employer. The employee doesn't have to seek out legal counsel immediately. If the employee believes they have been discriminated against, they can directly contact the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the state equivalent.

Levitt states, "If an employee works for a small business and the principal of that company is involved, then I would recommend the employee seek advice. The next step would be to file an administrative complaint with either the federal or state governments." This would be the first step beyond the company. The agency then investigates to determine if there is enough evidence to prove a violation and aids the employee in drafting a claim or charge.

Even if there is insufficient evidence, an employee can still file a lawsuit. The agency can either assist the employee or advise them to find an attorney. An employee should seek advice from an employment lawyer to learn about their rights and determine if they are eligible to file a lawsuit. Levitt explained that agency findings aren't binding and often not admissible because agencies don't conduct exhaustive investigations. Levitt says that the agency will visit some people to see them, but there are no depositions and no cross-examination. Even if an employee has a lawyer to assist them, the investigators of the agency conduct [the investigation] without the lawyer being involved.

The US Department of Justice may decide to accept a case. However, they only take very few cases. They will not take cases unless they seek to establish a national precedent or if a large company is involved with rampant discrimination or another equally serious matter.

Levitt points out that plaintiffs have won lawsuits even if the EEOC did not find merit. However, employers have also prevailed when it finds merit and the employee sues.

What can employees do to protect themselves?

Employees who feel they are being discriminated against or not being paid properly should keep detailed records, including dates and times. Notify witnesses. If the employee decides to take legal action, all of this information can be useful for the attorney or agency.

What can employers do?

Levitt warns that even small businesses should have an employment office. It should include policies and rules that ensure equal opportunities in employment. Employees should be able to file complaints with the company and make grievances about discrimination. Every employer must then investigate and decide if there was any illegal conduct.

What about freelancers?

Independent contractors are freelancers In effect, they are their businesses. They do not have the same rights as employees and are therefore not entitled to any benefits. Except for New York and California, which offer some protections to independent contractors, freelancers only have the rights provided by the agreements they make with companies. A freelancer is not an employee of a company.

If you are looking for an employment lawyer, do your research. A nationwide bar service rates lawyers and law firms (peer-rated, but not bought) is useful. You should also verify with your state's Bar Association to make sure they have not been involved in any disciplinary cases.

You may feel overwhelmed if your job has been unfairly terminated or you're being discriminated against or harassed at work.

You are probably concerned about the cost of hiring an Orange County employment lawyer with the right experience and resources.

You need to be aware of what to expect when you begin the process of hiring an employment lawyer.

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS - THE BASICS

Employers and employees often have disputes over employment-related issues like workplace discrimination, harassment, wage and hours issues, workplace safety and health, as well as family and medical leave issues.

Orange County employment lawyers can help you if you find yourself in this position. They will review your case against your employer, give you advice on the next steps, and ca learn the course of action. Most cases can be settled without going to court.

Sometimes, however, they might end up in front of a jury.

An experienced lawyer must be able to negotiate effectively and is ready to go to trial to challenge existing employment law.

An employment lawyer may not be necessary for all Orange County employment matters.

California employment law can be complex. It requires a lot of legal knowledge, especially if there are carrots at stake.

Employment laws are constantly changing. An experienced employment lawyer will be able to advise you about any changes that could affect your case.

HOW DOES AN EMPLOYMENT LAWYER ASSIST YOU?

These are some ways an employment lawyer can assist you in a workplace dispute case:

Understanding and Clarity

An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand complex employment laws and clarify the situation.

Understanding which employment laws apply in your situation could prove difficult because both federal and state employment laws govern Orange County employers and employees.

Expert employment lawyers are available to provide guidance and accurate information to assist you in making the right decisions.

Information about the Claim Process

A skilled employment lawyer will also know the steps involved in filing a claim or a lawsuit, and the deadlines to be adhered to.

file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, failing to follow the steps and meatal deadlines could lead to a denial.

One of the most crucial parts of any process is compiling all documents and submitting them by the deadline.

An Orange County employment lawyer you can trust will provide you with the support and guidance you need to weather any emotional storms.

This gives you the best chance of a positive outcome in your case.

Providing an Edge

Employer lawyer services can help you get the edge you need in your case.

Nearly every Orange County employer will have their own ers.

Larger companies may have a whole team of lawyers.

You may have difficulty holding your employer responsible for any illegal acts in the workplace. If you do not have qualified legal representation, they might not even consider your case or lawsuit serious.

Discovery

An employment lawyer can assist you with complicated court proceedings.

This is where lawyers question witnesses under oath before a judge.

Statements made in discovery may, and often will be used during the trial.

This process can often give plaintiffs considerable leverage depending on the facts of each case.

WHAT SHOULD A EMPLOYMENT LAWYER LOOK FOR?

An array of employment law issues is handled by attorneys, including breach of contract, privacy, severance and wage and hour, and other disputes.

It is important to consider the experience of the attorney and/or firm in this area, as well as their knowledge and fees.

An employment lawyer must be aware of all current and proposed federal labor laws.

Good employment lawyers will explain to you their fee structure at the outset so that everyone is on the same page regarding fees, billing, as well as other costs incurred in the course of the country.

A lawyer should give you an estimate of the time it will take to resolve your case.

These are Some Characteristics to Look for When You Hire an Employment Lawyer:

Employment Law Focus

Make sure that the law firm or lawyer you choose focuses on employment law.

A law firm that handles all cases is not what you want.

Employment law is a highly specialized field.

You can be sure that your lawyer is knowledgeable in this area.

Background Check

Most sites, including the California Bar Association, have information about whether an attorney has been disciplined.

An attorney must be a member.

A local attorney is likely to have a better understanding of California's employment laws.

The minimum wage in Orange County or San Francisco, for example, is different than the state minimum wage.

Advocate for Employees

Orange County lawyers should be advocates for workers, not employers or employees.

You can be certain that you are choosing the right lawyer for you. They will fight for your rights and get you the best outcome.

Special Experience

Look for someone with experience in representing cases similar to yours.

If you're considering filing a lawsuit against sexual harassment, it is important to find an employment lawyer who has successfully represented clients in similar cases.

Find a Orange County attorney with the right experience and expertise to represent your case.

Orange County employment lawyers are focused on employment law and have helped clients recover hundreds of millions of dollars. Kingsley and Kingsley are the choice of Orange County employees for employment law representation. They commit to helping clients financially and emotionally.

WHAT FEES DO ATTORNEYS EXPECT?

How much you pay for legal services can be affected by the arrangement you make.

The factors that affect attorney fees include the time taken to resolve your case, the ability of the lawyer to handle it, their experience and reputation, the challenge faced by the case, the final results achieved, and any actual costs.

Other factors that impact the total cost are overhead expenses such as rent utilities and office equipment.

These are the most common fee arrangements and cost structures used by lawyers:

• Consultation fees For the initial meeting, some attorneys may charge an hourly or fixed fee. The initial meeting will discuss your case details and determine whether or not the lawyer will accept your case. Be sure to find out if you will be charged for the initial meeting, and if so how much.
• Contingency fees The fee for a lawyer is usually a percentage of the amount that was awarded in the case. If you lose your case or don't receive compensation, your lawyer won't be paid a fee. However, you will be responsible for other expenses. While the percentage of your contingency fees may vary, it will usually be one-third. A sliding scale is offered by some lawyers depending on the progress of the case before settlement. A lawyer may also be limited in the number of contingency fees they can receive by the court.
• Flat fees A lawyer might charge a flat fee in certain cases. Although this type of flat fee is not common, it may be required in cases that are simple or routine.
• Hourly rate In these cases, the lawyer will charge by the hour or a portion of an hour that he/she spends on your case. This is the most common fee arrangement for lawyers. Depending on the type of work performed, some lawyers may charge different fees. Lawyers who work for large companies might also have different fee structures. As an example, senior or more experienced lawyers might charge higher fees than younger or paralegal lawyers.
• Referral fees A lawyer that refers you to another lawyer might take a percentage of the total fees. However, the total fee should be reasonable and you would need to agree to it.
• Retainer fees In such cases, the lawyer is paid a fixed fee. A retainer acts as a down payment that may be charged for future expenses. The retainer is usually placed in a special account, and the cost for services is taken from that account. These fees cannot be refunded.

Ask a lawyer to explain the costs and other expenses that are included in the fees.

Is it inclusive of overhead costs or other expenses? If so, will these be separately charged to you? What will be the cost for staff members, paralegals, and other employees?

Be sure to ask if contingency fees are charged by the law firm.

HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR RESPECTIVE RIGHTS?

There are steps you can take to protect your rights if you're facing harassment, discrimination, or a retaliatory workplace.

Keep Calm and Collected

Do not say anything to your employer about you that could be used against you in court. In these situations, it is important to keep calm and gather as much information as you can that may help strengthen your case. Do not speak up or be confrontational. This could backfire on you.

Report the Incidents Promptly

You must immediately report any hostile work environment to your supervisor or human resource department if you feel you are being discriminated against. You must file a written complaint and keep copies of any documents you submit.

Keep a Record of All Incidents

They can be internal memos or emails. Save them. This will help you determine the frequency with which harassment and discrimination took place. It is also a good idea if you have contact information for witnesses to the incidents.

Get help from experienced, proven attorneys

Most likely, your employer has an attorney or a team of attorneys to represent their best interests. If you allow them to, they will use every opportunity possible to devalue your case and take advantage of you. A strong advocate is necessary to protect your rights and look out for your best interests.