FAQs
Who Will Be Handling My Case?
An experienced employment attorney from our employment team will handle your case, inform you of your rights, and and guide you through the entire process. If you have any questions or concerns about your case, our employment attorneys and supporting legal team are available to answer them 24/7.
What Size Cases Do You Handle?
Our firm handles employment cases of all sizes, ranging from individual wage and hour claims to class action lawsuits. Our employment attorneys have pursued cases against some of the world’s largest corporations, including Walmart, FedEx, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Sherwin-Williams Company, among others.
No matter what kind of claim you have, our firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle all types of employment cases, because we are equally dedicated to all of our clients, no matter what size your case.
What Will It Cost to Pursue My Employment Case?
Pursuing your case won’t cost you anything out-of-pocket. Our employment cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means we are only paid if and when we recover compensation for you.
Will the Information I Share With You Be Confidential?
Yes, everything you share with us is 100% confidential and protected under the attorney-client privilege. Is important that you disclose all the facts and any relevant information so that your attorneys can fully evaluate your case. The more information you provide, the better advice we can give. The attorney-client privilege applies to all communications between you and the firm, even if you do not retain us.
How Much Will I Have to Pay Your Firm at the Conclusion of My Case?
How Long Has Your Firm Been Practicing Employment Law?
Our law firm has more than 25 years of combined legal expertise in employment law. We have created a strong foundation in managing workplace disputes and advising clients on various employment-related issues.
What Types of Employment Cases Do You Usually Handle?
We handle several types of employment matters, including wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, retaliation, and wage and hour disputes. We also help with employment agreements and resolve disputes through negotiation or litigation.
How Do You Typically Communicate With Clients?
We prioritize accessible and consistent communication, keeping clients updated through emails and phone calls depending on what their preference is. We are always available to address any questions regarding case status, and make sure clients are informed throughout each stage of the legal process.
How Do You Keep Clients Informed About Progress?
We provide updates throughout the process, especially when we come across important milestones or decisions that need to be made. Our team checks in regularly and discusses the next steps thoroughly, so there are no surprises.
How Do You Evaluate Whether Someone Has a Valid Employment Claim?
We evaluate a potential claim by reviewing the facts presented, identifying any applicable laws, and determining whether the situation meets the elements required to file a claim. We also consider the evidence provided, timelines, and any possible defenses.
Are Most Employment Disputes Resolved Quickly or Do They Take Time?
Employment disputes can be resolved before or shortly after litigation starts. This is because both sides typically want to avoid the cost and duration of a full trial. If a dispute heads to litigation, it could take a few years or longer to resolve. The timeline will vary based on the facts presented and whether all parties involved are able to reach a resolution early on.
Will My Case Remain Confidential?
We understand that confidentiality is important when it comes to employment matters. Communications shared between you and our law firm are protected by the attorney-client privilege. We’d also like to note that many employment disputes are resolved through confidential settlement agreements. Although some aspects of a case could become part of public record if litigation is filed, we will take steps to protect sensitive information and work to preserve confidentiality to the fullest extent possible under the circumstances presented.
What Does the Typical Process Look Like From Start to Finish?
The process will usually start with reviewing the facts and documentations provided. From there, we will attempt to have the matter resolved through negotiation or by addressing the issue with the employer. If the dispute cannot be resolved informally, a claim may be pursued with the appropriate agency or in court. The case will then proceed through investigation, discovery, and potential mediation or settlement talks. If there is no resolution, the matter will move forward to a hearing or trial.
When Is It Better to Settle Versus Pursue Litigation?
Whether to settle or pursue litigation will depend on the facts, risks, and goals surrounding the case. Settlement is generally preferable since parties will seek a faster and more cost-effective resolution. Litigation may be appropriate if the claim has significant value and if the opposing side is unwilling to cooperate. In our practice, we assess each matter thoroughly and advise clients based on the strength of the claims presented, potential risks, and overall objectives.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover?
Every case involves unique circumstances, meaning compensation will vary significantly for each situation. We assess matters individually to evaluate possible recovery based on the specific details involved. Depending on the type of case being handled, damages may include economic (lost wages and lost benefits) and non-economic losses (emotional distress).
What Types of Employment Cases Have You Successfully Handled?
We have handled a wide range of employment cases, such as wage and hour theft, pregnancy discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination claims, and even class action lawsuits.Â
What Types of Injuries Have You Recovered Compensation for in Past Cases?
For workers compensation claims, we have helped clients recover compensation for various types of injuries, like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and burns. We aim to secure full financial recovery to ensure our clients receive proper care as they heal from any bodily harm sustained from a workplace accident.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Employment Law Claim?
If you believe your employer has treated you unfairly or unlawfully, you may have a valid claim. Common warning signs include sudden termination after reporting misconduct, unpaid wages, discriminatory comments or actions, or being denied legally required breaks. The best way to determine whether you have a case is to speak directly with an employment attorney who can evaluate your situation.
Do Most Employment Cases Settle Out of Court or Go to Trial?
Most employment cases can be settled out of court through negotiations and only a small portion will head to litigation. This is because settlements are typically faster and less costly, giving clients the opportunity to discuss fair offers without having to go through a lengthy process to recover compensation.
What Should I Do If I’m Experiencing Harassment or Discrimination at Work?
You should document everything. Keep records of incidents, emails, messages, and any witnesses. Report the behavior internally if possible, following your company’s procedures. Then, consult with an employment lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and prevent further harm.
Can I Be Fired for Reporting Illegal Activity at Work?
No, California law protects employees from retaliation when they report illegal conduct, unsafe working conditions, or violations of labor laws. If you were fired, demoted, or otherwise punished for speaking up, you may have a strong retaliation or wrongful termination claim.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for an illegal reason. While California is an “at-will employment state“, employers cannot terminate workers for discriminatory reasons, in retaliation for protected activities, or in violation of public policy.
What Are Wage and Hour Violations?
Wage and hour violations occur when employers fail to comply with labor laws regarding pay and working conditions. This includes, not paying minimum wage, failing to pay overtime, denying meal and rest breaks, and requiring employees to work off-the-clock.
How Long Do I Have to File an Employment Claim?
In California, employees have around one to four years to file an employment claim depending on the type of claim. So it’s important to act quickly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I Sue My Employer While Still Employed?
Yes, in many cases you can pursue a legal claim while still working for your employer. However, these situations can be complex, and it’s important to consult with an attorney to understand the risks and protections available to you.
What Evidence Do I Need for an Employment Case?
Strong evidence can include emails and written communications, pay stubs and time records, witness statements, performance reviews, and internal complaints or HR reports. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case may be.
Who Will Be Handling My Case?
An experienced employment attorney from our employment team will handle your case, inform you of your rights, and and guide you through the entire process. If you have any questions or concerns about your case, our employment attorneys and supporting legal team are available to answer them 24/7.
What Size Cases Do You Handle?
Our firm handles employment cases of all sizes, ranging from individual wage and hour claims to class action lawsuits. Our employment attorneys have pursued cases against some of the world’s largest corporations, including Walmart, FedEx, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Sherwin-Williams Company, among others.
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No matter what kind of claim you have, our firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle all types of employment cases, because we are equally dedicated to all of our clients, no matter what size your case.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire Your Firm?
We operate on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you do not have to pay anything upfront. You will only be required to compensate for our legal services if we successfully settle your case.
Will the Information I Share With You Be Confidential?
The information you share with our employment attorneys will be confidential and will not be disclosed without your permission.
What Questions Will Be Asked During My Deposition?
During a deposition, you may be asked questions pertaining to the incident you were involved in, nature of the labor dispute, how the incident affected your quality of life, and any related communications. Our goal is to ensure we gather facts, so it is important for clients to answer each question honestly.
How Much Will I Have to Pay West Coast Employment Lawyers at the Conclusion of My Case?
If we successfully settle your case, you will pay a pre-agreed percentage of the amount recovered as a contingency fee. If we are unable to do this, you will not have to owe us anything.
How Long Has Your Firm Been Practicing Employment Law?
Our law firm has more than 25 years of combined legal expertise in employment law. We have created a strong foundation in managing workplace disputes and advising clients on various employment-related issues.
How Do You Typically Communicate With Clients?
We prioritize accessible and consistent communication, keeping clients updated through emails and phone calls depending on what their preference is. We are always available to address any questions regarding case status, and make sure clients are informed throughout each stage of the legal process.
How Do You Keep Clients Informed About Progress?
We provide updates throughout the process, especially when we come across important milestones or decisions that need to be made. Our team checks in regularly and discusses the next steps thoroughly, so there are no surprises.
How Do You Evaluate Whether Someone Has a Valid Employment Claim?
We evaluate a potential claim by reviewing the facts presented, identifying any applicable laws, and determining whether the situation meets the elements required to file a claim. We also consider the evidence provided, timelines, and any possible defenses.
What Types of Cases Have You Successfully Handled?
We have handled various types of cases for clients such as wage theft claims, sexual harassment, discrimination claims, and wrongful termination cases. If you believe your workplace rights have been violated call us today for a free consultation.Â
Can You Explain How Factors Like Medical Bills or Lost Wages Impact Settlement Amounts?
Medical bills and lost wages are important factors that are considered when determining the value of a settlement especially for workplace injury claims. One focuses on ongoing costs of treatment and future care whereas the other accounts for the income you lost while you were recovering. Together, they establish the financial losses you incurred in the aftermath of an accident.
Have You Won Cases Against Large Insurance Companies?
Yes, we have successfully acquired compensation for clients while facing large insurance companies. Such cases often involve the opposing side implementing tactics to reduce or deny valid claims. However, our legal team has the experience and resources needed to challenge them.Â
What Does the Typical Process Look Like From Start to Finish?
The process will usually start with reviewing the facts and documentations provided. From there, we will attempt to have the matter resolved through negotiation or by addressing the issue with the employer. If the dispute cannot be resolved informally, a claim may be pursued with the appropriate agency or in court. The case will then proceed through investigation, discovery, and potential mediation or settlement talks. If there is no resolution, the matter will move forward to a hearing or trial.
How Often Do Your Cases Go to Trial Versus Settle Out of Court?
Most cases settle out of court through negotiations because settlements are known to be faster and less expensive, allowing clients to recover compensation sooner. But, if the insurer or employer is not agreeing to a reasonable amount or disputes liability, we are fully equipped to take the case to trial.
What Factors Influence the Outcome of Cases Like Mine?
Multiple factors can influence the outcome of an employment case. This includes the strength of your evidence, the severity of the incident, and so on.Â
Can I See Client Testimonials or References Related to Your Case Results?
Yes, many of our clients have shared their experiences through testimonials, highlighting the results we were able to achieve and the level of care and dedication we put in to ensure we delivered satisfactory results.
