Can I still fight my severance package if I already signed it in El Segundo?
Signing a severance agreement does not always mean you lose your right to challenge it, especially if you felt pressured or misled. California law provides protections for employees, and specific circumstances can allow for a review of signed documents.
If you believe your severance agreement was unfair, or if your employer violated your rights during the termination process, you may still have options. Acting quickly is important because deadlines for challenging agreements can be short.
Where do I file a claim for an employment dispute in Los Angeles County?
If your employment dispute requires a lawsuit, most cases are filed with the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. For residents of El Segundo, a personal injury case is generally filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred, which for El Segundo means the Southwest District.
Cases assigned to the Southwest District typically go to the Torrance Courthouse, located at 825 Maple Ave, Torrance, CA 90503. The specific department is often a Personal Injury Hub department, following LASC Local Rule 2.3 and the General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases.
How long do I have to act on an employment contract issue?
The time you have to file a claim depends on the specific nature of your employment contract issue. Most California personal injury claims, which can sometimes relate to harm from employment issues, must be filed within two years (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1).
However, if your claim involves a city, county, or public agency employer, you must present a written claim to that public entity within six months of the incident (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2) before you can file a lawsuit. These deadlines have exceptions and must be confirmed with an attorney for your specific facts.
If the injured person is a minor, the deadline is generally paused under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352. However, this pause does not apply to the six-month government claim deadline under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352(b).
What steps should I take after an employment dispute in El Segundo?
- Gather Your Documents: Collect all relevant papers, including your employment contract, offer letters, performance reviews, termination notice, severance agreement, and any communications related to your employment or departure.
- Document What Happened: Write down a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the employment dispute, including dates, names, and specific conversations.
- Avoid Discussing Details with Your Employer: Limit communication with your former employer to only what is necessary, and avoid making statements that could harm your potential claim.
- Do Not Sign Anything New Without Review: If you are offered any new documents or agreements, do not sign them until you have had them reviewed by an attorney.
- Contact a Lawyer: Speak with a lawyer who focuses on severance and employment contracts. They can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you understand your legal rights in El Segundo.
What types of cases do El Segundo contract attorneys handle?
Attorneys focusing on employment contracts in El Segundo address a wide array of workplace issues. This includes reviewing and negotiating severance agreements to ensure they are fair and legally sound. They also examine employment contracts to clarify terms, compensation, non-compete clauses, and intellectual property rights.
Other common issues include disputes over wages, commissions, bonuses, and wrongful termination claims. If you believe you were fired unfairly, or your employer violated the terms of your contract, a lawyer can assess your specific situation. Our firm also handles broader employment law matters, including claims of retaliation and whistleblowing and other employee rights concerns. We also assist executive and professional employees with their unique contractual needs.
What is it like to work with Casa Legal Los Angeles?
Working with our firm means having a dedicated team focused on protecting your rights as an employee. We begin by listening to your story and carefully reviewing your employment documents to understand the details of your situation.
We then provide clear advice on your legal options and the potential outcomes. Our goal is to pursue the full compensation available under California law for your specific circumstances. We handle all communications and negotiations with your former employer, aiming for a fair resolution. Our commitment is to guide you through the legal process with clear communication and strong advocacy, whether your case is in El Segundo or other areas like Carson or Bellflower.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a severance agreement?
A severance agreement is a contract offered by an employer to an employee upon termination, often in exchange for the employee waiving their right to sue the company. It typically includes financial compensation, benefits, and sometimes a confidentiality clause. Reviewing these agreements with a lawyer is important to ensure your rights are protected.
Can my employer enforce a non-compete clause in El Segundo?
Generally, California law (Business and Professions Code § 16600) prohibits most non-compete clauses, declaring them void. This means employers in El Segundo typically cannot prevent you from working for a competitor or starting a competing business. However, there are narrow exceptions, such as in the sale of a business, so having a lawyer review your specific clause is wise.
How does California's "at-will" employment affect my contract dispute?
While California is an "at-will" employment state, meaning an employer can generally terminate an employee without cause, this does not override valid employment contracts or protections against unlawful termination. If you have an employment contract, its terms typically supersede "at-will" provisions. Similarly, an employer cannot terminate you for illegal reasons, such as discrimination or retaliation, even under "at-will" employment. These types of claims would be distinct from an employment contract claim, but an attorney can evaluate them as part of your overall case.
Are there different deadlines for claims against public agencies like the City of El Segundo?
Yes, claims against public entities like the City of El Segundo, Los Angeles County, or a transit agency, have different and much shorter deadlines. You must first present a formal written claim to the public entity within six months of the incident (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2). Missing this deadline can permanently bar your ability to sue. This is a critical distinction from the general two-year deadline for most personal injury claims.
Dealing with an employment dispute or a severance package can be stressful. We are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice. Contact Casa Legal Los Angeles at 888-585-2529 for a consultation. No attorney's fees unless we win — and no case costs either.