Layoffs are a tough time for an employee for a number of reasons. Not only are you now out of work, you were also fired for reasons that you had no control over, which is mentally taxing. Unfortunately, employers can fire employees for any reason that is not covered by laws. While layoffs are not a firing reason that is protected, there are still regulations that give rights to most employees facing a layoff.
What Are Your Rights When Laid Off in California?
The California Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) gives employees the right to a 60-day notice before a layoff if they work at a company with at least 100 full-time employees, who work at least 4,000 hours per week. It also requires any employer that owns an industrial or commercial facility with at least 75 employees to provide notice of 60 days. The law does not cover temporary or seasonal workers, and in some situations a warning of less than 60 days is passable.
Do You Get Compensation for a Layoff?
If your employer violated WARN laws, they could be eligible to pay employees up to 60 days in compensation. In California, you are required to get your final paycheck the same day you are laid-off. Your paycheck could include compensation for unused paid vacation days. A Los Angeles employment attorney can help you find out if your employer broke laws during your layoff.