Trusted Pasadena Employment Law Attorneys for California School Employees

School employees in California play a vital role in shaping the future of our communities. However, working in the education sector often has unique challenges, including navigating complex employment laws.

At Romero Law, APC, our California employment law attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of school employees, ensuring they are treated fairly and with respect in the workplace.

Romero Law: Employment Law Attorneys for the California Education Industry

California’s employment laws provide robust protections for employees in various roles in the school and education industry, and our attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that these employees have the legal resources they need to sue their employers for justice.

At Romero Law, APC, our skilled California employment laws represent employees in the education industry, whether they work in all levels of public or private schools or in other roles.

That includes:

• Classroom Teachers
• Substitute Teachers
• School Principals and Vice Principals
• District Superintendents
• Academic Counselors
• School Librarians
• Curriculum Coordinators and Instructional Designers
• Support and Operational Staff
• School Janitors and Custodians
• Bus Drivers and Transportation Coordinators
• Cafeteria Workers and Food Service Staff
• Maintenance and Groundskeeping Staff
• Office Administrators and Secretaries
• IT Technicians and Support Staff
• Classroom Aides and Paraprofessionals
• School Nurses
• Security Personnel
• Specialized and Student Services Staff
• Special Education Aides
• Behavioral Therapists and Specialists
• Occupational Therapists
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Psychologists and School Counselors
• Social Workers
• Extracurricular and Athletics Staff
• Athletic Coaches and Trainers
• Performing Arts Directors
• Club Advisors and Program Coordinators
• Professors and Lecturers
• Adjunct Faculty
• Graduate Assistants and Teaching Assistants
• Administrative Staff
• Research Assistants and Laboratory Technicians
• Facilities Management Staff
• Childcare and Early Education Employees
• Preschool Teachers
• Childcare Workers and Daycare Aides
• Early Intervention Specialists
• Non-Traditional Education Settings
• Charter School Employees
• Private School Staff
• Alternative Education Program Staff
• Online/Virtual School Teachers and Support Staff
• Union and Non-Union Employees
• Freelance Tutors
• Contract Coaches
• Visiting Artists or Professionals
• Seasonal Employees
• Part-Time Teachers and Support Staff

Common Legal Issues Faced by School Employees in California

School employees often encounter workplace challenges that require a thorough understanding of California and federal employment laws.

At Romero Law, APC, we assist clients with a range of legal issues, including:

• Discrimination

School employees are entitled to a workplace free from discrimination based on protected characteristics such as disability, gender, and pregnancy. Discrimination can take many forms, including unequal pay, wrongful termination, and denial of promotions or accommodations. Our attorneys are experienced in holding schools accountable for discriminatory practices and ensuring our clients receive the justice they deserve.

• Harassment

Harassment in schools is unacceptable, whether it involves inappropriate comments, unwanted advances, or hostile working conditions. Employees facing harassment often feel powerless, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Romero Law advocates for school employees to ensure they can work in a safe, respectful environment.

• Whistleblower Retaliation

School employees who report illegal or unethical practices, such as financial mismanagement or safety violations, are often retaliation targets. California law protects whistleblowers from adverse actions such as demotion, termination, or harassment. Our attorneys help school employees defend their rights and hold employers accountable for retaliatory behavior.

• Family and Medical Leave Act(FMLA)

School employees are entitled to take leave for personal or family medical needs under the FMLA and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). Unfortunately, some schools fail to comply with these laws, denying rightful leave or retaliating against employees who take time off. We help clients understand their rights and take action against violations.

What Can I Do If My School’s HR Department Ignores My Complaints?

If your school’s HR department ignores your complaints, it can be frustrating and demoralizing, especially if you’re dealing with serious issues like discrimination, harassment, or unsafe working conditions. However, California’s employment laws provide several steps you can take to ensure your concerns are addressed and your rights are protected. 

• Document Everything

Keep a detailed record of your complaint, including:

• Dates and times of incidents.
• A summary of what occurred.
• Any communication with HR, including emails, meeting notes, or responses.
• Witnesses to the incidents or complaints.

This documentation can serve as crucial evidence to escalate the issue or pursue legal action.

• Follow Up in Writing

If your initial complaint was verbal, send a follow-up email or letter to HR summarizing your concerns. Be polite but firm, and request an update on the status of your complaint. Written communication creates a paper trail, making it harder for HR to deny knowledge of your concerns.

• Review Your School’s Policies

Check your employee handbook or school district policies for procedures on reporting workplace issues. Ensure you have followed the appropriate steps, such as reporting to a specific person or department. This ensures HR cannot dismiss your complaint for procedural reasons.

• Escalate the Issue

If HR continues to ignore your complaint, consider escalating it:

• Report to a higher authority within the school, such as the principal, superintendent, or school board.
• For private schools, contact the governing body or trustees.
• For public schools, consider reporting to your district or the California Department of Education if applicable.

Escalating your complaint can be challenging, as it may involve navigating internal politics, facing potential retaliation, or encountering delays, but it is often necessary to ensure your concerns are addressed.

• File a Complaint with a State or Federal Agency

If your school fails to act, you can file a formal complaint with relevant government agencies:

• California Civil Rights Department(CRD) for issues related to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) for unsafe working conditions.
• S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission(EEOC) for federal discrimination or harassment claims.

These agencies can investigate your complaint and hold your employer accountable.

Consult Our Skilled California Employment Attorneys at Romero Law

Our experienced employment attorney can assess your situation and help you take the appropriate legal action. We can guide you on filing claims, negotiating resolutions, or pursuing a lawsuit if necessary. In California, you have strong protections as an employee, and our attorneys can help enforce those rights, starting with a free consultation.

Why Choose Romero Law for Your California Education Industry Employment Law Case?

Choosing the right attorney is crucial when facing employment law issues.

Here’s why Romero Law stands out:

• Extensive Experience in Education Employment Law

We understand the importance of representing employees in the education sector and the unique challenges school staff face. Our experience allows us to navigate complex legal frameworks and advocate effectively on your behalf.

• Client-Centered Advocacy

At Romero Law, your rights and well-being are our top priorities. We take the time to understand your situation, provide personalized guidance, and build a strong case tailored to your needs.

• Proven Track Record

Our attorneys have a history of successfully representing school employees in employment law cases. We are dedicated to securing favorable outcomes and holding schools accountable for unlawful practices.

• Commitment to Justice

We are passionate about protecting employees’ rights and ensuring equitable workplaces. Whether you are facing discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or another employment law violation, we are here to fight for you every step of the way.

Contact Our Attorney at Romero Law, APC Today

If you are a school employee facing legal issues in California, don’t wait to take action. Contact our experienced Los Angeles County employment law attorneys at Romero Law, APC, today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and secure the justice you deserve.

Our employment law firm and bilingual staff offer services in both English and Spanish and are available to discuss your case by calling (626)-396-9900 or contacting us online.