Los Angeles Equal Pay Act Lawyer

Despite significant progress in the fight for workplace equality, wage disparities based on gender, race, and other factors persist. The California Equal Pay Act aims to close these gaps by ensuring that employees receive equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender or other protected characteristics. If you believe you are being paid unfairly, a Los Angeles Equal Pay Act lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue justice.

At Crown Law Group, PC, we fight for workplace equality and ensure employees receive the compensation they deserve. Our experienced attorney has extensive knowledge of equal pay laws and provides strong legal representation for those facing wage discrimination.

What Is the California Equal Pay Act

The California Equal Pay Act requires employers to provide equal pay to employees who perform substantially similar work, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. Key provisions include:

1. Substantially Similar Work: Employees must be paid equally for performing substantially similar work in terms of skill, effort, and responsibility.
2. Prohibited Disparities: Employers cannot pay employees differently based solely on gender, race, or ethnicity.
3. Permissible Factors: Employers can only justify pay differences based on legitimate factors such as seniority, merit, or production-based pay systems.
4. No Retaliation: Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who inquire about, discuss, or challenge wage disparities.

Common Examples of Equal Pay Violations

Equal pay violations can occur in various ways, including:

1. Paying Different Wages for the Same Job: Employees performing the same role and duties receive different salaries based on gender or race.
2. Discriminatory Promotions: Promoting one group of employees over another while keeping pay disparities in place.
3. Different Bonus Structures: Unequal access to bonuses or commissions based on protected characteristics.
4. Retaliation for Raising Concerns: Punishing employees who speak out about wage disparities.

Legal Protections Under Federal and State Laws

In addition to the California Equal Pay Act, federal laws also provide protections against wage discrimination:

• Equal Pay Act of 1963: A federal law that requires equal pay for equal work regardless of gender.
• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Prohibits wage discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, or religion.
• Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act: Extends when employees can file wage discrimination claims.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Wage Discrimination

If you believe you are a victim of wage discrimination, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Document Your Wages: Keep records of your pay, job duties, and any disparities you observe.
2. Inquire About Pay: You can discuss wages with coworkers to identify potential disparities.
3. Report the Issue: File a formal complaint with your employer or HR department.
4. Consult an Attorney: Speak to a Los Angeles Equal Pay Act attorney to understand your legal options and next steps.

How Crown Law Group, PC Can Help

Our experienced Equal Pay Act attorneys provide comprehensive legal assistance for wage discrimination cases. We offer:

• Case Evaluation: We will review your case to determine whether wage discrimination occurred.
• Filing Complaints: Assistance filing complaints with state or federal agencies, such as the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
• Negotiation: We will negotiate with your employer for a fair resolution and appropriate compensation.
• Litigation: If necessary, we will represent you in court to fight for justice and hold your employer accountable.

Key Statistics on Wage Disparities

• Women earn approximately 82 cents for every dollar men earn in the U.S.
• Black and Hispanic women face even wider pay gaps, earning 63 and 57 cents, respectively, for every dollar earned by white men.
• Wage discrimination claims accounted for nearly 30% of all workplace discrimination claims filed with the EEOC in recent years.

Potential Compensation for Victims of Wage Discrimination

Victims of wage discrimination may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

1. Back Pay: Reimbursement for lost wages due to pay disparities.
2. Emotional Distress: Compensation for mental anguish and emotional suffering caused by wage discrimination.
3. Punitive Damages: Additional damages intended to punish employers for intentional discrimination.
4. Attorney Fees: Reimbursement for legal fees and court costs.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you believe you are being paid unfairly, don’t wait to take action. A Los Angeles Equal Pay Act lawyer at Crown Law Group, PC, is here to help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.

Contact us today at 310-734-0504 to schedule a free consultation. We are committed to fighting for workplace equality and ensuring you receive the pay you deserve.