In California, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees based on their race, gender, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and some other, less common classes of protected groups. If your employer treats you differently because you fall into one of those groups, you may have a claim for discrimination. Discrimination claims include wrongful termination, as well as other negative treatment at work.

If you engaged in a protected activity and feel like your employer “punished” you for it, you may have a claim for retaliation. Under California employment laws, employees who engage in a protected activity cannot be terminated or otherwise retaliated against by their employer in response to their conduct. Not every activity is a “protected activity,” however, and you should consult with a California employment attorney before bringing claims for retaliation.

Wrongful termination comes in many forms and shapes. California is an “at-will” employment state, and your employer can terminate you at any time for no reason at all. But, if the reason for your termination is an unlawful one, you may have a claim for wrongful termination. Examples include termination for discriminatory reasons, or termination in retaliation for a protected activity.

California’s wage and hour laws are complicated and comprehensive. Employers in California are subject to numerous labor laws governing various employment practices. The rate at which your employer pays you, the overtime you’re entitled to, and when you are supposed to be paid, are all subject to strict laws that many companies fail to comply with. Similarly, California employers must provide employees with meal breaks and rest breaks in compliance with very specific labor laws.