Lawyer of Firm Description

About Employees First Labor Law — employment law Bakersfield, California

Employees First Labor Law brings focused employment law representation to Bakersfield, California and the broader Kern County region. The firm represents workers facing wrongful termination, wage theft, workplace discrimination, harassment, and retaliation — advocating exclusively on the employee side of the employment relationship. Attorneys Jonathan and Oliver and their team are consistently praised for their responsiveness, thoroughness, and ability to explain complex employment law concepts in terms clients can actually use. Kern County’s unemployment rate of 6.6% — significantly above the state average — reflects an employment landscape where workers face real vulnerabilities and where strong legal advocacy matters.

Clients who’ve worked with Employees First Labor Law describe a firm that takes action immediately upon engagement, requests supporting documents quickly, and keeps clients informed at every stage of their cases. One client praised the firm for being referred by a trusted attorney, noting the team “got me what is owed to me.” Another highlights attorney Oliver Rodriguez for resolving a matter decisively after other lawyers had declined to help. The firm extends its commitment beyond individual cases, participating in community initiatives that reflect a genuine investment in the workers it represents.

What Clients Say

Reviewers describe Employees First Labor Law as a firm that is professional, responsive, and genuinely committed to workers’ rights. Clients consistently mention how the team listened carefully, asked thorough questions to understand the full picture of each case, and communicated proactively throughout. Several clients note that the firm helped them understand their rights and options in ways that gave them real confidence, not just legal jargon.

employment law Bakersfield — Practice Areas & Services

Wrongful Termination: The firm pursues wrongful termination claims for Kern County workers fired in violation of California law, including terminations tied to protected characteristics, whistleblowing, or retaliation for asserting legal rights.
Wage & Hour Claims: Employees First Labor Law handles unpaid overtime, meal break violations, minimum wage claims, and other wage theft cases under California’s stringent Labor Code.
Workplace Harassment & Discrimination: The firm represents employees facing hostile work environments, sexual harassment, and discrimination based on race, gender, disability, age, or other protected characteristics.
Retaliation Claims: California law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report violations, request accommodations, or exercise protected rights. The firm handles retaliation claims across industries.
FEHA Complaints: The team assists clients in filing complaints with California’s Civil Rights Department and represents them through the agency process and, where necessary, in civil litigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline to file a wrongful termination claim in California?

The filing deadline depends on the type of claim. Discrimination and harassment claims under FEHA must be filed with California’s Civil Rights Department within three years of the unlawful act before you can sue in civil court. Wage claims have different deadlines depending on the basis. Because missing a deadline permanently bars your claim, consulting an attorney promptly after any adverse employment action is critical.

Does California law protect me if I was fired for complaining about workplace conditions?

Yes. California Labor Code Section 1102.5 is one of the nation’s strongest whistleblower protection statutes. It prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report suspected violations of law to a government agency, to their employer, or even internally to a supervisor or HR department. If you were fired or demoted after making a protected complaint, you may have a retaliation claim worth pursuing.

Can I sue my employer for unpaid overtime in Kern County?

Yes. California requires overtime pay for hours worked over eight in a day or 40 in a week — stricter than federal law, which only requires overtime for weekly hours over 40. Kern County workers in industries with irregular hours, including agriculture, logistics, and manufacturing, frequently have valid unpaid overtime claims. An attorney can evaluate your pay records and employment agreement to assess your potential recovery.

Quick Facts: Employment Law in Bakersfield, California

California FEHA Settlements: California’s Civil Rights Department secured $116.5 million through 788 employment and civil rights settlements in 2023, with the average settlement at approximately $147,843 — California Civil Rights Department
Kern County Unemployment: Kern County’s unemployment rate of 6.6% significantly exceeds the state average of 4.8%, reflecting the employment vulnerabilities facing Bakersfield workers — California Employment Development Department
California Wrongful Termination Settlements: The typical settlement for a wrongful termination case in California averages approximately $40,000, with complex cases reaching significantly higher amounts — Legal industry sources

Related Guide: Employment Lawyers Guide — ReachAttorneys

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Employees First Labor Law, located in Bakersfield, California, is highly praised for their exceptional professionalism and client-focused approach in the field of employment law. Reviewers consistently commend the team’s responsiveness, thoroughness, and dedication to helping clients understand their cases, which instills confidence and reassurance throughout the legal process. Many clients express their gratitude for the support and expertise provided, recommending Employees First Labor Law as a top choice for anyone seeking reliable legal assistance.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

I received a call back immediately. All of the answers I needed were given with precision and confidence. I would highly recommend Jonathon and his team!

I highly recommend Employees First Labor and Law for their professionalism and client-focused approach. Beyond their legal expertise, their commitment extends to the community through initiatives such as regular giveaways, which play a role in fostering local economic growth.

I am just here to tell how Awesome is Employees First Labor Law team . Thier professional behavior and knowledge makes them perfect . They will listen you carefully and in minutes they will solve your issues . The best thing about them is, they are supportive through out the process. My words are not enough to describe how honest and awesome they are. Visit them for further details. Highly recommended TeamWork

I appreciate the time they took to help me better understand my case. This is my first time working with a law firm and I can strongly say they have been a great help. Not only do they help you in a timely manner but they make sure you understand the process as well. Oliver was a great help, I am thankful to their assistance.

Jonathan and Lisa are the best! This was my first time in my life hiring a lawyer and they do not disappoint. They are very responsive as soon as they have a bit of info they have to share. If a a family or friend ever has any problems at work, I will send them here ASAP! Thank to the entire team at Employees First Labor Law!

Found these guys online for a buddy of mine and couldn’t of been happier with the service provided, I hope I’m never in the situation that I need them but if I do, this will be it!

Called about consult in Bakersfield, the lady who answered did not know where they were located, she said, “It says in Pamona” So I guess no real office in Bakersfield???

Very great service… they took action right away in requesting documents to prepare for our case. They were very communicative which gave us the peace of mind that our case was being taken care of

Great and responsive, they were able to be get in contact with me and assist me on my case and helped answer a lot of questions I was confused on. I was able to get a clear understanding of how to proceed and felt confident with their support. Their proactive approach ensured timely communication, allowing them to promptly address my concerns and provide invaluable assistance throughout my case. Overall great experience with their team, I would recommend.

Had a very good experience here. Got a quick answer on my legal issue. They were very thorough with their questions and knowledgeable of labor law. I was glad they asked questions around other areas to ensure they got a clear picture. They know what they are doing and able to advise on what makes sense for your situation.

I was referred by a really good attorney that help me in the past. And he said you’re firm was one of the best I gave you guys a call Employees First Labor Law and They are helping me out on getting me what is owed to me they help me out with everything thank you Employees First Labor Law.

The law firm I engaged with exemplified unparalleled dedication to their clients’ needs. Their swift responses and meticulous attention to detail ensured that every aspect of my case was thoroughly addressed. What truly set them apart was their proactive approach, always striving to provide the most value for their customers. Their genuine care and commitment to achieving the best outcomes were evident in every interaction. With their expertise and compassionate approach, they instilled confidence and reassurance throughout the legal process, making them a top choice for anyone seeking reliable legal assistance.

I had a great experience with this law firm, they were able to get me an answer, without beating around the bush! Oliver Rodriguez was able to resolve my issue asap, other lawyers, just said they were not able to help me! I will definitely call them again in regards of any further cases!

Oliver and his entire team made this process absolutely seamless. They took my terrible situation with my previous employer and gave me immediate hope for retribution. They work with incredible efficiency and I will recommend them to anyone who happens to get put through the ringer with their employer.

The gentleman I spoke with was very nice. Very professional company. I appreciate all the information I was given. They are upfront about what they can help with.