California Labor Laws 2025 | Know Your Workplace Rights

Marcarian Law Firm
Jun 11
2 min read

Why You Should Understand Your Labor Rights in California

California has some of the strongest protections for workers in the United States. Whether you work in Los Angeles, San Diego, or anywhere in California, you need to know how these changes in labor laws apply to your job, wages, and rights as an employee.

If you are having problems such as unpaid wages, illegal termination, or retaliation, knowing your employee rights is the first step to protecting yourself and your career. When disputes arise, an experienced Labor and Employment Attorney can make a big difference.

1. Minimum Wage in California (2025 Update)

On January 1, 2025:

$17.00/hour for businesses with 26 or more employees
$16.00/hour for businesses with 25 or fewer employees

The minimum wage in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco is higher than the state minimum wage. If you believe you are being underpaid, a Los Angeles Employment Attorney can help determine whether you have a case.

2. Wage Theft and Misclassification

Wage theft can mean:

Failure to pay overtime
Forcing you to work 'off the clock'
Misclassifying employees as independent contractors

These actions are not legally permitted in California. A skilled labor and employment attorney can assist you in seeking legal recourse and obtaining what you rightfully earned.

3. Retaliation and Whistleblower Protection

California has a burn law against retaliation for employees who report:

Harassment or discrimination
Violations of safety regulations or illegal acts
Wage theft

Retaliation took place if your timeline report led to a demotion, threat, or termination. Retaliation is not legally permitted. A lawyer that specializes in labor and employment issues in Los Angeles can preserve your rights.

4. Wrongful Termination - California

California employers have “at will” employment. Employers may discharge employees “at will” but not illegally. You may have been wrongfully discharged if you were terminated for:

Discrimination: gender, race, religion, etc.
Retaliation, or whistleblowing
Taking medical or family leave.

If you believe you have been Wrongfully Terminated, please contact a Los Angeles, California, labor attorney.

Do You Need Legal Help? Call Marcarian Law Firm

If you suspect a violation of your workplace rights, you don't need to face it alone. At Marcarian Law Firm, P.C., we help employees all across California confront illegal practices in the workplace and fight for the justice they deserve.