Santa Ana Retaliation Lawyer

Employees in Santa Ana have the right to speak up about unlawful conduct without fear of punishment. If you believe your employer retaliated against you, a Santa Ana employment lawyer at Aegis Law Firm can help you protect your rights and pursue accountability. Call (949) 379-6250 or message us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Why Choose Our Santa Ana Retaliation Attorney

• Employee-First Focus: Our practice centers on protecting workers, not defending corporations, in retaliation and whistleblower cases.
• Proven Employment Law Experience: Our attorneys handle retaliation claims across a wide range of industries and workplace settings.
• Direct and Responsive Advocacy: Clients receive clear communication and a legal strategy tailored to the facts of their case.

What is Workplace Retaliation?

Workplace retaliation occurs when an employer takes negative action against an employee because the employee exercised a legally protected right. Retaliation does not need to involve termination to be unlawful. Any action that would deter a reasonable employee from asserting their rights may qualify. Examples of retaliatory conduct include:

• Termination, suspension, or demotion.
• Pay reductions or loss of scheduled hours.
• Reassignment to undesirable roles or shifts.
• Denial of promotions, bonuses, or benefits.
• Increased scrutiny, write-ups, or hostile treatment.

California law recognizes that retaliation often appears subtle. Sudden performance criticism, schedule changes, or exclusion from meetings after protected activity can all support a retaliation claim in Santa Ana.

Protected Activities Under California Law

Employees engage in protected activity when they assert rights granted by law. An employer may not punish an employee for engaging in these actions. Protected activities include:

• Reporting discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
• Complaining about unpaid wages, overtime, or missed breaks.
• Filing or participating in claims with the Labor Commissioner or CRD.
• Cooperating in internal or government investigations.
• Requesting or taking protected leave, including medical or family leave.
• Refusing to participate in illegal conduct.
• Reporting suspected violations under Labor Code §1102.5 or §98.6.

Employees do not need to prove the underlying violation occurred. The law protects good-faith reports and complaints.

California Laws That Prohibit Retaliation

California provides broad retaliation protections through multiple statutes, including:

Labor Code §1102.5

Prohibits retaliation against employees who report suspected legal violations to a government agency, law enforcement, or an internal authority with investigative power.

Labor Code §98.6

Protects employees who assert rights under the Labor Code, including wage claims and participation in enforcement proceedings.

Government Code §12940(h)

Part of the Fair Employment and Housing Act, this provision makes it unlawful to retaliate against employees who oppose discrimination or harassment or participate in related proceedings.

Labor Code §6310

Bars retaliation against employees who raise workplace safety concerns or file Cal/OSHA complaints.

Labor Code §232.5

Protects employees who discuss or disclose wages or working conditions.

Violations of these laws can expose employers to liability for lost wages, emotional distress damages, penalties, and attorney fees.

How a Santa Ana Retaliation Lawyer Can Help

Retaliation cases often depend on timing, patterns, and employer intent. Employers frequently deny retaliation and claim legitimate business reasons for their actions. A retaliation lawyer can strengthen your case by:

• Reviewing personnel files, schedules, and communications for red flags.
• Identifying the connection between protected activity and adverse action.
• Preserving and obtaining evidence controlled by the employer.
• Filing administrative complaints or civil claims on your behalf.
• Seeking compensation for lost income, emotional distress, and career harm.

Legal representation also helps protect employees from further retaliation during the claims process.

Contact Us Today

Aegis Law Firm is prepared to help you take action and protect your future. Call (949) 379-6250 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a Santa Ana retaliation lawyer today.