News & perspectives

Don’t let a criminal history prevent you from achieving your career goals. Through the “Fair Chance Act,” California has taken significant strides to provide employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records. This landmark legislation aims to reduce barriers to employment for individuals with conviction histories and promote rehabilitation. Matern Law Group, a leading plaintiff-side employment […]

Doing the right thing in the workplace can sometimes come at a cost. In California, however, employees are generally protected from retaliation for doing the right thing, such as reporting violations of the law or company policies. Matern Law Group, a leading plaintiff-side employment law firm, is committed to ensuring a safe and ethical work […]

In a significant legal victory, the Matern Law Group secured justice for their client, Shaka Green, in a case against Tesla, Inc. This arbitration case not only highlights the rights of employees but also underscores the critical role of effective legal representation in upholding these rights. Background of the Tesla Case Shaka Green, represented by […]

California has long been a leader in LGBTQ+ rights, and this extends to the workplace. Matern Law Group, a champion for California employees, is committed to ensuring a safe and fair work environment for everyone. This blog post will explore the current legal landscape for LGBTQ+ workers in California, highlighting recent developments and ongoing challenges. […]

In a recent legal battle, Danny Lopez took on his former employers, Aircraft Service International, Inc., and Menzies Aviation (USA), Inc., over alleged wage and hour violations. The case, initially filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, was moved to federal court by the defendants, who argued that federal law preempted some of Lopez’s claims. […]

The question of whether private websites and software programs must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) is a complicated one. To summarize the lack of clarity on website accessibility, a person with disabilities who has trouble accessing a website or software program should ask two critical questions to determine if they have an […]

Matern Law Group, a leading plaintiff-side employment law firm in California, is proud to announce a major victory for workers. We recently secured a $5.5 million settlement on behalf of all hourly non-exempt employees who were denied proper compensation by their employer, WestRock Company. A federal judge in California has granted final approval for a […]

Guest worker programs offer numerous benefits to employers in the United States. However, in the United States federal guest worker programs also harbor significant potential for exploitation and abuse by unscrupulous employers, leading to the mistreatment of foreign laborers. Guest worker programs present distinct risks unique to foreign workers, and the litigation surrounding these programs […]

California, a trendsetter in employee rights, is at the forefront again with Assembly Bill (AB) 2751, proposing a “right to disconnect” law for workers. This legislation has the potential to significantly impact how California employees manage their off-the-clock hours. Here at Matern Law Group, we help employees understand their rights and fight for fair treatment. […]

In a highly anticipated decision, the California Supreme Court recently provided much-needed guidance on what activities constitute compensable “hours worked” for employees in the construction industry. The case, Huerta v. CSI Electrical Contractors, addresses several common scenarios faced by construction workers and offers a roadmap for employers and employees alike. Vehicular security checks are compensable […]

Every year on March 15th, the world celebrates World Consumer Rights Day. This day serves as a reminder of the rights and protections consumers deserve in the marketplace. Here at Matern Law Group, we understand the importance of empowered consumers, effective consumer protection laws, and the promotion of fair and ethical business practices. What is […]

Every March 31st, the world observes Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). Trans Day of Visibility 2024 serves not only to celebrate the lives and contributions of transgender and non-binary individuals but also to raise awareness of the challenges they face. Here at Matern Law Group, we stand firmly in support of the transgender community and […]

California boasts some of the most comprehensive parental leave laws in the United States. This guide is designed to provide new and expecting parents with a clear understanding of their rights and available programs. California’s Parental Leave Programs California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Available to employees working for companies with five or more employees, employees […]

The fight for equal pay is an ongoing battle, and for many women in the workforce, the wage gap is a persistent reality. At Matern Law Group, we believe in ensuring fair treatment for all employees. The Equal Pay Act (EPA) of 1963 is a crucial piece of legislation that protects workers from unequal pay […]

For most Californians, the name Dred Scott evokes a distant historical echo, a relic of a bygone era. However, the impact of the infamous 1857 Supreme Court decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford continues to resonate in many areas, including the workplace. Understanding this connection helps us all work towards justice in the workplace. What […]

Every year on March 1st, the world stands together for Zero Discrimination Day. This year, as we mark the 10th anniversary of this crucial initiative, Matern Law Group proudly joins the fight against discrimination in all its forms. As a law firm dedicated to representing plaintiffs in California, we see firsthand the devastating impact discrimination […]

On October 10th, 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 848 (SB 848) into law, granting employees statewide access to paid leave following a reproductive loss. The law went into effect on January 1, 2024. This landmark legislation offers crucial support and recognition for individuals experiencing the emotional and physical challenges often associated with […]

February marks Black History Month, a designated time to recognize the immense contributions of Black Americans to the fabric of our nation. However, at Matern Law Group, we believe honoring Black history requires more than a fleeting moment of reflection. It demands sustained action, ongoing dialogue, and unwavering commitment to building a future where equity […]

The use of “stay or pay” clauses in employment agreements is on the rise for many different jobs and industries, but these clauses are now facing heightened scrutiny because of their negative impact and unique harms on employees. What Are “Stay or Pay” Clauses? Stay or pay clauses occur when an employment agreement specifies that […]

Around 50% of women and 30% of men have experienced sexual violence. Unfortunately, around 80% of the time, they know their perpetrator. All too often, that’s someone in a position of power in some organization the survivor is affiliated with. This could be abuse by a coach, church personnel, or even a teacher. In cases […]

Being undermined is one of the most disheartening feelings you can experience in the workplace. If such an incident is due to factors beyond your control, like your sex, gender, or nationality, then it even becomes illegal. Are you currently experiencing such a situation and would you like to know what you can do about […]

As of January 1, 2024, two new California laws, Assembly Bill 2188 (AB 2188)[1] and Senate Bill 700 (SB 700)[2], have significantly shifted the landscape of cannabis testing for employees. Here’s what you need to know. Protection from Off-the-Clock Cannabis Use: No Discrimination Based on Non-Psychoactive Metabolites: Employers are prohibited from discriminating against you based […]

As of January 1, 2024, California ushered in a new era of employee well-being with the expansion of the Healthy Workplaces Healthy Families Act (HWHFA). This landmark legislation significantly increases the amount of paid sick leave available to workers across the state, paving the way for a healthier and more equitable workforce. Previously, the HWHFA […]

Employee privacy rights in California are governed by a combination of state and federal laws. In California, the right to privacy is considered a fundamental right, and the California Constitution provides explicit privacy protections. What laws protect employee privacy? The California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA) criminalizes various forms of invasion of privacy, including eavesdropping […]

As veterans navigate the transition from military service to civilian employment, they may face unique challenges that require legal advocacy. The employment landscape for veterans has evolved significantly over the years. Federal and State laws, such as the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and the California Military and Veterans Code, are in […]

In California, labor laws protect employees from exploitation and ensure they receive just compensation for their dedication. One key aspect of these regulations is overtime pay, stipulated under the California Labor Code. Overtime Basics: According to California law, any work performed over 8 hours in one workday, or over 40 hours in one workweek, must […]

International Human Rights Day, celebrated annually on December 10th, commemorates the day when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. This declaration serves as a foundational document outlining the fundamental rights and freedoms to which all people are entitled, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion, and gender, among […]

Instances of sexual assault outside the workplace can have profound and lasting effects on victims. When the perpetrator is affiliated with an organization such as a church, doctor’s office, or similar entity, it’s important for victims to understand their rights and avenues for holding these institutions accountable. This blog post explores the legal steps victims […]

If you’ve experienced harassment in the workplace, hiring a workplace harassment lawyer in Los Angeles can benefit you. Learn how here. While harassment in the workplace can be humiliating and belittling, those who experience it are far from alone. 23% of people around the world have experienced violence, harassment, or discrimination at work. If you’re […]

Before hiring a lawyer for wrongful termination in Los Angeles, you need to know what to ask them. Find out about eight common questions here. Losing your job is stressful in the best of circumstances, but it can be downright traumatic in the event of an unjust firing. According to the ACLU, about 150,000 Americans […]

Wrongful termination refers to firing an employee in a way that violates the law or a contract of employment. If you’ve recently been let go from your former position, you may wonder if the decision was legally sound. As you reflect on the events leading up to your termination, you might discover that the reason for […]

Between 2018 and 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reported nearly 100,000 charges of workplace harassment. While sexual harassment comprised nearly one-third of those claims, there are many other types of discrimination and verbal, physical, or online harassment that can occur at work. If you believe you’re being harassed at work, there are […]

The term “me too” in employment litigation predates its momentous use in the #MeToo movement that gained prominence in 2017.  Under California Evidence Code section 1101(b), evidence of a crime, civil wrong, or other act is admissible when relevant to prove some fact—including, but not limited to, identity, motive, or intent—other than the person’s disposition […]

In today’s ever-evolving legal landscape, California employment law has continually adapted to address new challenges and protect the rights of workers across the state. One such challenge that has garnered significant attention in recent years is the issue of “forever chemicals.” These chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), may pose serious health risks […]

Navigating Workplace Disabilities in California: Your Rights and Protections In California, the pursuit of workplace diversity and inclusivity is deeply ingrained in the state’s employment laws. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) are pivotal pieces of legislation that mandate equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. In […]

Rest breaks for workers in California: What you need to know In California, employees are entitled to rest breaks and meal breaks under the state’s wage and hour laws. These laws are enforced by the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE).[1] Employees are entitled to one paid 10-minute rest break for every four hours […]

Matern Law Group is dedicated to securing justice for California employees who have faced unfair treatment in the workplace. Our experienced Los Angeles employment lawyers aggressively fight for victims of discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, wage theft, and other illegal employer practices. We take pride in representing plaintiffs in a broad range of employment law cases, […]

One area of particular concern for many employees and employers is sick leave. Under the California Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014, most employers in the state are required to provide their employees with paid sick leave. This means that employees are entitled to accrue paid sick leave at a rate of one hour […]

In California, the laws and regulations governing independent contractors in California are complex and can be difficult to navigate. In this blog post, we will explore the rights of independent contractors in California and how they can be protected under the law. First, it is important to understand how independent contractors are defined in California. […]

Starting a small business is no small feat. It takes a unique blend of passion, determination, and grit to turn an idea into a thriving venture. Small business founders are the driving force behind innovation, job creation, and economic growth. In this blog post, we will explore the journey of small business founders, the challenges […]

As August 26th approaches, we prepare to honor Women’s Equality Day, an occasion that reminds us of the strides made in the fight for gender parity. At Matern Law Group, we champion workplace equality for all under the ambit of California’s robust employment laws. A Historical Milestone for Progress Women’s Equality Day commemorates the passage […]

Child labor is a pressing global issue that can infringe upon the rights and well-being of children, jeopardizing their education, health, and future prospects. While significant strides have been made to eradicate exploitative child labor practices, some of these instances continue to persist, even in developed regions such as California. As an employment law firm […]

Inclusion is a key aspect of any organization’s success. Although the concept applies to many areas of business, it is of particular significance when it comes to employing individuals with disabilities. Discrimination against people with disabilities is a long-standing problem in the workforce. To improve diversity and promote equity, employers must create a workplace culture […]

The fight for environmentalism is no longer just a battle waged outside of work. As a California employee, you spend more than eight hours of your day in a workplace that could be contributing to the ongoing climate crisis. Therefore, it’s worth considering making changes within your workplace to address the environmental impact that your […]

As we prepare for the 4th of July in California, here’s a reminder of what the holiday is all about, the history behind it, and the impacts it has had on workers. Originally known as Independence Day, this holiday is dedicated to commemorating the United States’ independence from Great Britain in 1776. However, most people […]

Pride Month is an annual celebration that honors the LGBTQ+ community’s achievements and promotes the ongoing fight for equality. While significant progress has been made over the years, there are still challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the workplace. Matern Law Group, a leading employment law firm representing plaintiffs in California, stands strong in […]

Los Angeles, California Safe Place for Youth (SPY) selects individuals and community partners who have displayed an ongoing commitment and dedication to SPY’s youth and young people experiencing homelessness. This year they honored Matthew J. Matern, Founder of Matern Law Group, PC, and presented him with the Inspiration Award along with other community members for […]

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is an annual commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It holds immense historical and cultural significance, marking the end of slavery and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. As we celebrate Juneteenth, it is crucial to reflect on its relevance in the context […]

Matern Law Group is proud to work with an unparalleled group of high-caliber attorneys and is thrilled to highlight its fabulous five on the “2023 Rising Stars” list. In a variety of employment and consumer law matters, Matern Law Group has earned a reputation for litigation excellence. The firm has successfully represented employees and consumers […]

As Memorial Day approaches, we at Matern Law Group take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served and continue to serve our country. This holiday is a time to honor those who gave their lives in service, and it is also an opportunity to consider the rights and freedoms […]

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of AAPI people in the United States. This year’s theme is “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration.” A Brief History of AAPI Heritage Month AAPI Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter designated the first […]

Matern Law Group has joined 1% for the Planet, committing to donate 1% of annual sales to support environmental organizations focused on the environment. “We joined 1% for the Planet because we are passionate about supporting initiatives to protect our environment,” says Matt Matern, founder of Matern Law Group, PC and compelling radio show and […]

Save Mart Supermarkets is facing a class action lawsuit alleging that it illegally terminated health benefits for retirees and their spouses. The lawsuit alleges that Save Mart breached its fiduciary duty in April 2022 when it decided to stop paying $500 monthly health reimbursements to the retirees and their spouses, despite having previously represented the […]

Environmental violations can have serious consequences for businesses in California. Not only can they lead to fines and legal action, but they can also damage a company’s reputation and harm its bottom line. As an employment law firm, it’s important to understand the various laws and regulations that govern environmental protection in the state, as […]

Paid Family Leave and FMLA If an employee’s place of work does not offer extended leave, the employee may have other options for taking time off. For example, they may be entitled to take leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or California’s Paid Family Leave program. The FMLA provides certain employees […]

Equal Pay Day Equal Pay Day is an annual event that highlights the ongoing wage gap between men and women. It is observed in the United States and other countries around the world on different dates each year, depending on how long it takes women to earn the same amount of money that men earned […]

At Matern Law Group, we are proud to celebrate Harriet Tubman Day, which is observed annually on March 10th to honor the life and legacy of one of America’s most revered civil rights icons. Harriet Tubman was a remarkable woman who risked her life to help hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom through the […]

Every March 31st, the United States celebrates Cesar Chavez Day in honor of the late labor leader and civil rights activist who fought for the rights of farm workers. Cesar Chavez was born on March 31, 1927, and went on to become a symbol of hope and inspiration for millions of people around the world. […]

Religious holidays Taking time off work for religious holidays can be a complicated matter, as it often involves balancing the needs and obligations of one’s faith with the requirements and expectations of one’s job. In the United States, federal law provides certain protections for employees who need to take time off for religious observances. The […]

On Wednesday, January 11, 2023, a California judge granted certification of a class of hourly restaurant employees who allege improper wage and hour practices at Boston Market Corporation restaurant locations in California. Boston Market Corporation is a fast casual restaurant chain specializing in rotisserie chicken meals. During the relevant time period, Boston Market Corporation operated […]

How does greenwashing affect consumers? As consumers, we are bombarded with marketing messages on a daily basis, many of which promise to deliver environmental benefits. From eco-friendly cleaning products to energy-efficient appliances, companies are increasingly using “green” messaging to appeal to consumers who are looking to make more sustainable choices. However, not all of these […]

If you have opened a social media app in the last few years, you have undoubtedly heard the term “quiet quitting.” This viral term is used by employers and employees alike to describe putting in the bare minimum effort at one’s job. More recently, the term “quiet firing” has been trending, drawing attention to employers […]

Could you be a victim of failure to hire? Finding the right candidate can be challenging for employers, but some companies employ unfair hiring practices as they assess and interview applicants. Fortunately, both federal and state protections exist to shield workers from discriminatory practices during and after the interview process. Review the facts about failure […]

Individuals from all backgrounds and experiences should be able to fully participate in all aspects of society, including employment. Many state and federal laws uphold this principle. And when it comes to individuals with disabilities, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) were enacted to help ensure […]

New parenthood can be exhilarating, but it can also make everyday activities more challenging, including work obligations. If you are a new or expecting parent, you deserve to rest. California maternity leave laws protect your right to take much-needed rest associated with pregnancy or welcoming a new child into your household. If you need maternity […]

While research continues to show that a college education leads to better job security and higher pay, the number of people in the United States who enroll in and value higher education is declining. This means colleges need to increase their advertising and incentives to get their enrollment numbers where they want them. However, sometimes […]

Background In 2019, the USWNT sued the U.S. Soccer Federation on the grounds of gender discrimination, claiming that they performed the same job as the men’s team, and for the same employer, but received significantly lower compensation. To highlight their hard work, the women’s team stated that they have outperformed their male counterparts by winning […]

Every customer deserves the freedom to make an informed decision. Some businesses try to take away this fundamental consumer right. They engage in deceptive business practices by lying or making misleading claims about their products. Fortunately, California has powerful consumer protection laws to punish businesses that use unfair or deceptive tactics. What Are Consumer Protection […]

When you’ve been unjustly fired from your place of employment, you may feel a lot of powerful emotions: anger at the injustice, disappointment in your employer, and insecurity about the future. Federal and state laws offer employee protections in these circumstances, but navigating the process can seem overwhelming. A wrongful termination lawyer can help you […]

Employers must adhere to state and federal labor laws, including paying their employees fair wages for their time and work. However, what happens when the business you work for doesn’t meet its obligations in terms of salary and overtime pay? What is wage theft, and how do you know if you’re a victim? Understanding your […]

The federal and California Equal Pay Acts require that men and women in the same workplace be given equal pay for equal work. Despite this requirement, women working full-time, year-round only make 83 cents for every dollar men make. When all workers are considered, including those working part-time, the gap increases to 73 cents on […]

Federal and state laws provide protection against workplace discrimination for both current and prospective employees. Failure to hire is a type of discrimination that occurs during the hiring process when someone does not receive a job offer because they belong to a protected class. The Federal Equal Opportunity Commission enforces the various federal laws establishing […]

We are pleased to announce that nine attorneys at Matern Law Group have been selected to the 2022 Southern California Rising Stars list. Sydney Adams, Beatriz Alfaro, Shooka Dadashzadeh, Ellie Goralnick, Irina A. Kirnosova, Deanna Leifer, Vanessa Rodriguez, Julia Wells and Tagore Subramaniam have all been selected to the list this year. The Rising Stars […]

PRESS RELEASE MANHATTAN BEACH, CA (June 1, 2022) – The Satyagraha Alliance, the social corporate responsibility arm of Matern Law Group, has announced the launch of their new microloan program. The program was created to empower and support underserved business owners and ambitious entrepreneurs in California who are unable to secure financing through conventional loans. […]

June 1, 2022 In September 2021, a woman filed suit against Zendesk after Matt Ingebrigtsen, Director of Enterprise Sales-West, announced on a videoconference, “We call your baby the million-dollar baby because you lost out on a million dollars of wages since you took a full maternity leave.” Today, three more women filed a lawsuit under […]

A Discussion of Race-Based Hairstyle Discrimination and How the CROWN Act is a Necessary Response A person’s hairstyle can say a lot without them uttering a single word. Women, predominantly Black American women and children, face race-based hairstyle discrimination in the workplace, school, housing and in public in general solely based on their natural, inherited […]

Attorneys at Matern Law Group are Passionate About Providing a Voice for Employees By Shane Nelson Special to the Daily Journal   About a year ago, longtime employment litigator Matthew J. Matern started hosting a weekly radio show on KABC in Los Angeles, discussing social issues and politics with activists, authors and California state officials. […]

A judge recently ruled in favor of a group of California residents who were affected by a residential power purchase agreement with Vivint Solar. One person named Gerrie Dekker filed a lawsuit claiming that the contract was unfair and included illegal fees. The lawsuit seeks to stop Vivint Solar from continuing these practices and to […]

Shanel Dickson was the only African-American and the only female on her solar roofing crew. In July 2021, her Caucasian supervisor began calling her “nigga” and made other derogatory racial and sexual comments. She was also denied work duties and privileges that were afforded to men. Inside the warehouse was no better. On one occasion, […]

We are pleased to announce that five attorneys at Matern Law Group have been selected to the 2022 California Super Lawyers list. Launa Adolph, Josh Boxer, Scott Brooks, Mikael Stahle and Matt Matern have all been selected to the list this year. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state […]

Matern Law Group: $445,000 Sexual Harassment Verdict Against Owners of Famous Dave’s Restaurants December 8, 2021 A Los Angeles County jury awarded an ex Famous Dave’s employee $345,000 in compensatory damages and $100,000 in punitive damages on Tuesday. During a two-week long trial, Ana Villaseñor, a former hostess, and her coworkers testified about a work […]

September 29, 2021 “We call your baby the million-dollar baby because you lost out on a million dollars of wages since you took a full maternity leave,” chided Zendesk Director Matt Ingebrigtsen on a team video conference. This was just one of many harassing comments hurled at his female subordinate after learning that she was […]

The shift to remote operations over the past year and a half has reshaped work. Remote work has a great many advantages—most importantly, keeping workers and their families safe from the threat of COVID-19; but also increasing flexibility, productivity, and focus. As workers adapted to this new reality, however, problems found in the office continued […]

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major changes in our lives and workplaces. And with those changes have come new regulations. Cities, counties, states, and the federal government have put out new rules and guidelines that govern how workers and employers interact. But, given the frequent updates and number of regulations, it can be overwhelming to […]

Safe Place for Youth (SPY) has highlighted Matern Law Group in their “SPY Corporate Spotlight” for our nonprofit branch, The Satyagraha Foundation. Our foundation is volunteering at the SPY garden, serving meals, providing financial support, hosting employment workshops, and other local nonprofit work. This quote was pulled from SPY’s Instagram account: “On this round of […]

Purchasing gifts for others is no easy task. Gift shoppers can spend hours, days, or even weeks brainstorming the perfect gift for someone based on their interests, hobbies, or needs, often to no avail. Gift cards are the solution. All busy or anxious gift shoppers know the benefits of gift cards. They provide an effortless […]

Matern Law Group Spotlight This quarter we’re shining the spotlight on one of the first attorneys to join Matern Law Group, Tagore Subramaniam, selected to the Southern California Rising Stars list from 2016 -2021 and the Up and Coming 100 list, from 2018 – 2021. I recently sat down with Tagore to find out a […]

Did you know that pay disparities cause working women in California to lose over $33 billion each year?1 This problem is even worse for women of color. In 2015, Governor Brown noted that, “Sixty-six years after passage of the California Equal Pay Act, many women still earn less money than men doing the same or […]

We are pleased to announce that eight attorneys at Matern Law Group have been selected to the 2021 California Rising Stars list. Sydney Adams, Beatriz Alfaro, Dalia Khalili, Irina A. Kirnosova, Deanna Leifer, Vanessa Rodriguez, Kayvon Sabourian and Tagore Subramaniam have all been selected to the list this year. The Rising Stars list is an […]

The California supreme court recently decided on two important wage and hour issues in Donohue v AMN Services, LLC. First, the court decided on whether rounding time punches for meal periods is permissible under California law. Secondly, the court decided on whether a rebuttable presumption of meal period violations arises at summary judgement if time […]

What is a qui tam Lawsuit? The term “qui tam” (pronounced kee-tam) finds its origin in a Latin phrase that roughly means “who as well for the king as for himself sues in this matter.” The term describes a cause of action where a private citizen, also known as a “whistleblower” or “relator,” brings a […]

In November, Californians voted in favor of Proposition 22 (Prop. 22), a measure which classified gig workers as independent contractors. Prop. 22 was met with controversy from those who argued that it would negatively impact workers. What can we expect its impact to be? Worker classification is a hot topic in employment law, especially with […]

Read a story featured in Law360‘s Employment Authority service on the 3M litigation involving unlawful pay practices: Matthew Matern, Launa Adolph, and Kayvon Sabourian from Matern Law Group, PC. The article is linked below. “Law360 (March 10, 2021, 5:42 PM EST) — A California federal judge has preliminarily approved a $1.5 million settlement between 3M […]

Soon, the lawsuits that have made up the bulk of coronavirus-related litigation thus far — primarily concerning safety and wrongful termination — will give way to wage, discrimination and other related claims. While the suits filed so far reflect workers’ main concerns in the early days of the pandemic, as more businesses and courts open […]

Drama and suspense ran high as lawmakers worked through the weekend until midnight last month to meet the August 31st deadline and pass bills for this year’s legislative cycle. Last-minute negotiations resulted in promising movement on important workers’ rights issues, including compensation, paid sick days, and family leave, but also gave rise to counter-measures from […]

As Americans shelter in place, washing hands and staying six feet away from each other, farmworkers carpool to get groceries then retreat to cramped, crowded quarters, sleeping several to a room. They are not coronavirus deniers: The pandemic terrifies them. They simply have no choice; are compelled to work yet feel disposable. Two-thirds of the […]

PAGA TAKEAWAYS FROM THE SUPREME COURT’S DECISION IN KIM V. REINS On March 12, 2020, the California Supreme Court issued its opinion in Kim v. Reins, landing a highly anticipated blow in favor of employees. (Kim v. Reins Int’l California, Inc. (2020) 9 Cal.5th 73.) Most notably, the court took an “expansive approach” to standing […]

During these challenging and unparalleled times we have compiled a set of resources to support you. In an effort to keep you well informed, this page will be updated regularly throughout this global crisis. Can my employer fire me if I get coronavirus? Your employer cannot fire you if you test positive for COVID-19. Negative […]

Ephraim vs. Ralphs Complaint FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Treating their essential workers as disposable, and forcing them to choose between a paycheck and a pandemic, Ralphs and Food 4 Less ignored the most basic safety precautions, leading to over one hundred employees at their Compton, California warehouse contracting COVID-19 according to a group of workers.  The […]

Five of our attorneys at Matern Law Group, PC were recently selected to the 2020 Southern California Rising Stars list. Dalia and Tagore additionally made the Up-and-Coming 50 Women and Up-and-Coming 100 lists! Read more about them below. Dalia Khalili Dalia Khalili has been selected to the 2020 Southern California Rising Stars list. She has […]

Five Matern Law Group Attorneys Named to the 2020 Southern California Rising Stars List We are pleased to announce that five attorneys at Matern Law Group, Dalia Khalili, Irina Kirnosova, Kayvon Sabourian, Tagore Subramaniam, and Julia Wells, have been selected to the 2020 Southern California Rising Stars list. This is an exclusive list, recognizing no […]

At a time when Americans are desperate for economic relief, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) leaves millions of law-abiding American families empty handed. The CARES Act, which President Trump signed into law on March 27, 2020, prohibits approximately 1.2 million Americans who are married to non-resident aliens from receiving stimulus […]

All across the United States in this time of the COVID-19 crisis, employees continuing to work in their places of employment are dealing with the challenging circumstances of working during a pandemic while trying to ensure their health and safety are protected.  From nurses at UCLA Medical Center in Santa Monica and Kaiser in the […]

THE QUEST FOR CLARITY UNDER CALIFORNIA’S PAGA: RECENT RULINGS TO HELP YOU VALUE THE CASE A speck on the horizon: The birth of the Private Attorneys General Act statute   When the California Private Attorneys General Act of 2004 (“PAGA”) was enacted, it created a new frontier in the realm of California employment law. (Lab. […]

In Meeks v. AutoZone, the California Court of Appeal recently found me too evidence to have “unquestionable” probative value. If the #MeToo Movement has taught anything, it is that there is strength in numbers. Because sexual harassment cases often involve a great deal of “he said/she said” testimony, the introduction of “me too” evidence at […]

The law defines sexual harassment as either unwelcome verbal, visual, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature or conduct based on someone’s sex that is severe or pervasive and that affects working conditions or creates a hostile work environment.  At work, sexual harassment is a form of unlawful discrimination. It is important to understand […]

On April 4th, Gov. Jerry Brown signed S.B. 3 into law, a historic measure by the California legislature which will raise the state’s minimum wage to $15/hour by 2022, followed by annual adjustments for inflation.  The impact of the bill will reach beyond just the 2.2 million California workers who currently make minimum wage: economists […]

Wage and hour laws set the basic standards for pay and time worked—covering issues like minimum wage, tips, overtime, meal and rest breaks, what counts as time worked, when you must be paid, things your employer must pay for, and so on. The federal wage and hour law is called the Fair Labor Standards Act. […]

Many workers in the United States are classified as independent contractors (IC) instead of as employees. While the IC classification is appropriate for many, many still are — often intentionally — misclassified as ICs in order to save money.  This is because ICs are not entitled to the following benefits legally enjoyed by workers classified […]

Improper Background Checks and the FCRA: an Overview Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), if an employer seeks to terminate a current employee or to not hire an applicant because of information contained in a criminal or consumer background report, there are certain requirements must be met. To begin, employers must make a clear […]

Did you know that women still earn, on average, only 80 percent of what men do? Fortunately, California is leading the way when it comes to laws designed to close the gender wage gap. What is the Gender Pay Gap? In 2017, the Los Angeles Times reported that women who live in California and work […]

Please join us to discuss Root Causes and Solutions For LA’s Homeless Crisis Thursday November 16th, 2017 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at the SLS Hotel, Beverly Hills.

The 24th annual Women in Technology International (“WITI”) Summit took place from June 10-June 12, 2018 in San Jose, California. Founded in 1989, WITI is a leading worldwide authority on women in business and technology, focused on advocating women’s contributions to the tech industry, inspiring them to pursue STEM careers, and actively working with corporate […]

Root Causes and Solutions for LA’s Homeless Crisis Please join us to discuss Root Causes and Solutions For LA’s Homeless Crisis Thursday November 16th, 2017 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at the SLS Hotel, Beverly Hills. Register by following the link below. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/root-causes-and-solutions-for-las-homeless-crisis-tickets-39500834058?aff=affiliate1    

You consult with an attorney who offers to represent you in a “wage and hour” class action case where you, as a plaintiff and class representative, will have an opportunity to represent all of the company’s California employees in a fight for unpaid wages. But how can you, as a class representative, prove that the […]

Matern Law Group, PC is proud to announce three of its attorneys Matthew W. Gordon, Dalia Khalili, and Tagore Subramaniam, have been named to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2017 list. Additionally, Matthew J. Matern and Launa Adolph were named to the Super Lawyers 2017 list. Matern Law Group, PC is an employment law firm […]

Matern Law Group, PC is proud to announce three of its attorneys, Matthew W. Gordon, Dalia Khalili, and Tagore Subramaniam, have been named to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2017 list. Additionally, Matthew J. Matern and Launa Adolph were named to the Super Lawyers 2017 list. Matern Law Group, PC is an employment law firm with a reputation for litigation excellence. Our […]

One of our Senior Associate Attorneys, Tagore Subramanian, will be speaking at the Beverly Hills Bar Association on July 19th, 2017. He has successfully litigated and favorably resolved class actions on behalf of thousands of employees.

Know Your Rights: Arbitration and Dispute Resolution Agreements Note: The information provided below is for educational/ informational purposes only and should not to be taken as legal advice. If you believe you have experienced employment violations contact an attorney. Do you remember every form you signed when you were hired at your job? We’ve all been […]

Last week, the California Supreme Court interpreted California’s “day of rest” requirement in a manner detrimental to California employees. The California Labor Code provides that “[e]very person employed in any occupation of labor is entitled to one day’s rest therefrom in seven,” and “[n]o employer of labor shall cause his employees to work more than […]

Hugs from your boss could indeed create a hostile work environment. In an opinion issued just last week, a three-judge panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Zetwick v. County of Yolo revived a sexual harassment lawsuit against the Yolo County Sheriff by holding that the U.S. District Court improperly dismissed a […]

Many employees have experienced the same thing at their new job – they show up for their first day of work and are forced to sign a stack of paperwork. In recent times, many employers who plan on cheating their workers out of pay have been adding two documents to that stack: (1) an agreement […]

We are pleased to announce that Matthew Matern, Founding Attorney, and Launa Adolph, Senior Associate Attorney at Matern Law Group, PC, have been selected to the 2017 California Super Lawyers list. This is an exclusive list, recognizing no more than five percent of attorneys in California. Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a research-driven, peer influenced […]

With all of the holiday cheer, family time, and vacations this season, it is easy to miss all of the new laws going into effect in 2017. We’ve decided to highlight a few of the laws that we feel may be the most relevant to you, the employee, to better help prepare you for the […]

Currently, employers who misclassify employees as independent contractors may be liable for violations of the tax code, California Labor Code, and the Federal Labor Standards Act, among others. But there may be an unexpected new addition to the employment plaintiffs’ toolkit for litigating these claims: the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”). The National Labor Relations […]

Changes in California’s Sexual Harassment Laws California has been on the forefront of protecting workers’ rights. As early as 1959, California enacted the Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), in order to protect Californians from employment discrimination, among other issues. The FEHA has expanded over the years, protecting individuals in a number of “protected classes” […]

On May 26, 2016, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit unanimously ruled that an employer’s mandatory arbitration agreement, requiring some of its employees to waive their rights to “participate in or receive money or any other relief from any class, collective, or representative proceeding[,]” was illegal, and hence […]

In a ruling favorable to class-action plaintiffs, the United States Supreme Court recently held that, in certain circumstances, workers may use averages and other statistical analyses to establish class-wide liability.  In Tyson Foods, Inc. v. Bouaphakeo, 577 U.S. ___ (2016), Justice Anthony Kennedy, writing for a 6-to-2 majority, upheld a lower court’s order denying decertification, and $5.8 […]

NINTH CIRCUIT SAYS UNION SAG-AFTRA AND BYRON ALLEN CAN’T SETTLE OUT COMEDIANS’ CLAIMS FOR BREACH OF THE DUTY OF FAIR REPRESENTATION AND VARIOUS LABOR CODE VIOLATIONS Pauley, et al. v. CF Entertainment, et al. No. 14-55131 Pauley v. CF Entertainment, et al. No. 14-55155 After hearing oral argument, on March 25, 2016 the Ninth Circuit Court of […]

On January 5, 2016 the California Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Baltazar v. Forever 21 Inc. et al., S208345, which is currently pending for decision. The Plaintiff in Baltazar is a female former employee of Forever 21 who alleged multiple instances of racism and gender bias as well as sexual harassment at work.  The Plaintiff also alleged […]

In order to protect potential class members’ rights, the “death knell” doctrine permits immediate appeal from a court order denying the certification of class claims, yet preserving individual claims.  In Miranda v. Anderson Enterprises, Inc., 241 Cal. App. 4th 196, 200 (2015), the Court of Appeal ruled that it also applies to the dismissal of […]

November 9, 2016 In an important victory for workers’ rights, the California Court of Appeals refused to order a fast-food worker to arbitrate his wage and hour claims against a Taco Bell franchisee, Century Fast Foods. Attorneys from Matern Law Group, PC argued that an arbitration agreement, like any agreement, requires the mutual assent of […]

Lawyers Warn of Pay Stub Litigation Wave Matthew J. Matern, Daily Journal Cover July 6, 2015 – By Matthew Blake, Daily Journal California businesses and their lawyers have perennially fretted about the state’s employee-friendly laws, but companies see one recent labor code amendment as beyond pale. In 2012 Gov. Jerry Brown amended an existing law by […]

The information on this website and blog does not constitute legal advice.   For the second time, the United States Supreme Court refused to hear a challenge to the California Supreme Court’s holding that state Private Attorney General Act (“PAGA”) claims cannot be compelled to arbitration, despite language in employment arbitration agreements containing class action […]

The information on this website and blog does not constitute legal advice. The “me-too” evidence doctrine permits a plaintiff to proffer evidence of discrimination, not only against himself or herself, but also against other persons who are similarly situated. In Johnson v. United Cerebral Palsy/Spastic Children’s Foundation of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, an employee who […]

The information on this website and blog does not constitute legal advice.   On April 12, 2012, the California Supreme Court issued its much-anticipated decision in Brinker Restaurant Corporation v. Superior Court(2012) 53 Cal. 4th 1004.  The Supreme Court resolved several important issues with respect to meal periods and rest breaks. Chiefly, Brinker resolved a split among California […]

GALLAGHER V. LIONSGATE We are formally representing author Peter Gallagher for protection of his work and book against Joss Whedon and Lionsgate, whose movie “Cabin in the Woods” allegedly copies Mr. Gallagher’s work. Our client claims Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard took the idea for The Cabin in the Woods from his 2006 novel The Little White Trip: […]