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Equal Pay

Lawyers committed to helping individuals with equal pay matters.

Equal Pay Lawyers

Federal and California law require equal pay for substantially equal work.  In many industries, women have historically received lower pay for the same work.  Federal and state law prohibit this unequal pay.

California’s Equal Pay Act prohibits an employer from paying any of its employees wage rates that are less than what it pays employees of the opposite sex, or of another race, or of another ethnicity for substantially similar work.  “Substantially similar work” refers to work that is mostly similar in skill, effort, responsibility, and performed under similar working conditions.”

The legal team at Olivier & Schreiber has extensive experience representing individuals in discrimination and pay equity matters.  If you believe you have been receiving unequal pay on the basis of sex, race or ethnicity or otherwise have experienced discrimination, our legal team can help.

FAQs About Equal Pay in California

How does unequal pay affect employees beyond financial loss?

Unequal pay inflicts more than just current financial damage; it can create feelings of being undervalued and disrespected, leading to decreased morale, motivation, and job satisfaction. It can also hinder career growth and retirement savings, creating long-term economic disadvantages.

How does California's Equal Pay Act differ from federal equal pay laws?

California’s Equal Pay Act generally provides broader protections than the federal Equal Pay Act. While the federal act protects employees from receiving less pay than a coworker of the opposite sex who does the same work, California’s act protects employees who do substantially similar work but are paid less than a coworker of a different sex, race, or ethnicity.

What are my rights if I discover I am being paid less than a coworker for the same work?

If you find that you are being paid less than a coworker of a different sex, race, or ethnicity for substantially similar work, you have the right to take legal action. You can file a complaint to seek recovery for lost wages and other damages as appropriate for your circumstances.

Can I file a claim if I am retaliated against for discussing wages with coworkers?

You have the right to discuss your wages with coworkers, and it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for doing so. If you face reprisal for inquiring about or discussing pay, you may have a legal claim for retaliation in addition to an equal pay claim.

How does California law ensure transparency in pay practices?

California has enacted several laws to empower employees with information and reduce pay gaps. For instance, employers are prohibited from asking applicants about their salary history, a practice that can perpetuate past pay discrimination. Additionally, employers are required to provide the pay scale for a position to both applicants and existing employees.

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