Employees in the state of California have many rights. In fact, California is one of the most employee-friendly states in the nation. Here’s a closer look at employee rights in California and when it may be necessary to contact an employment law attorney.

Employee-Friendly Policies to Know in 2025

California consistently ranks high on lists of employee-friendly states. They have a comprehensive legal framework set in place that, many times, even exceeds the federal requirements.

Wages

California’s minimum wage increased in 2025 to $16.50 for all employees. Some sectors (like the healthcare and fast-food industries) earn significantly more.

Additionally, wages must be paid at least twice per month. When an employee is terminated, they must receive all final wages, including any accrued vacation time, immediately.

Overtime and Breaks

In California, break and overtime laws are strictly enforced to make sure that employees receive fair compensation for their work and adequate rest between shifts (especially when working long hours). Employees must receive “time-and-a-half” after working 8 hours in a day and “double-time” after 12 hours. This is alongside mandatory paid meal and rest breaks.

The Right to Organize

The right to organize refers to a worker’s ability to unite with others to negotiate for things like safer conditions, better pay and fair treatment. California actively supports workers’ right to organize. This includes collective bargaining and protecting employees from retaliation for participating in union activities.

Protection for Leave

California provides workers with some of the most extensive leave protection laws nationwide and combines job security with partial wage replacement. There are several statutes in place that ensure you can return to your position (or one comparable to it) after taking time off. Some of the major job-protected leave laws include:

• The California Family Rights Act – This law ensures up to 12 weeks of unpaid (and job-protected) leave per year that covers employers with at least five employees (under SB 1383).
• Pregnancy Disability Leave – This law provides up to 4 months of leave for those who are disabled due to pregnancy or childbirth.
• Reproductive Loss Leave – This law provides up to 5 days of leave for reproductive loss.

In addition, employers can no longer require workers to use two weeks of their vacation time before they start receiving paid family leave benefits.

Heat Protection Safety Standards

California has major indoor and outdoor heat safety standards that are regulated by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health. These laws are designed to prevent heat-related illnesses through providing ample water, rest, shade, cooling and planning.

When To Speak with an Attorney

There are several situations in which it may be necessary to consult with an attorney about your rights as a worker. You should consider seeking legal advice under the following circumstances:

• Retaliation
• Unsafe conditions
• Wage theft
• Discrimination and harassment
• Wrongful termination

It’s important to know and protect your rights as a worker in California. Always talk to a lawyer before signing any legal waivers or severance packages. Understanding your rights and seeking legal advice can help you secure your future and protect your job.