What is the Law Regarding Employment in Sonoma County?

Employment law refers to the body of laws in Sonoma County that regulate employees, employers, and independent contractors. Employment issues that are controlled by these laws include hiring policies, wage amounts, and termination procedures. Employers and their employees alike should be aware of Sonoma County employment laws.

"At-Will" vs. Contract Employment Terms

Occasionally an employment contract is used that sets a particular length of employment, but most of the times employment is considered to be on an "at-will" basis. "At-will" employers or employees can end the employment at any given time, if the reasons are not illegal. If an employment contract exists between the parties, state and federal laws will decide the validity and enforcement of the contract terms for people living in Sonoma County.

Anti-Discrimination laws in Sonoma County

Laws that make discrimination illegal at all stages of employment including hiring, wages, and termination policies, all apply to Sonoma County citizens. Individuals who live in the city of Sonoma County are required to follow laws which employers from discriminating based on certain classes. These classes include race, gender, disability, national origin, and age.

Employment discrimination claims are often heard by an administrative agency like the EEOC. Furthermore, some attorneys are specialists in the discrimination field.