Life can change in an instant. Whether you need time to care for a newborn, support a family member with a serious health condition, or recover from your own illness, understanding your rights under California’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program is essential. At Wilshire Law Firm, we help workers protect their benefits and fight for fair treatment when employers fail to comply with the law.
What Is California Paid Family Leave?
California Paid Family Leave (PFL) is a state program that provides partial wage replacement to eligible workers who take time off to:
- Bond with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster care)
- Care for a seriously ill family member
- Support a family member deployed on active military duty
PFL is not a job protection law by itself, but it works alongside other laws like the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to help employees maintain income during critical life events.
Does Paid Family Leave Protect Your Job?
This is a common question. PFL does not guarantee job protection on its own. However, other laws may protect your position while you are on leave:
- CFRA and FMLA
These laws apply to certain employers and provide job protection for eligible employees taking family or medical leave. - Employer Policies
Some companies offer additional protections or benefits beyond state requirements.
If you believe your employer violated your rights by refusing leave or retaliating against you, you may have legal options.
Common Issues Employees Face With Paid Family Leave
While PFL is designed to help workers, problems can arise, such as:
- Employers denying leave requests
- Retaliation or wrongful termination after requesting leave
- Delays or denials of benefits from the EDD
- Confusion about overlapping laws like CFRA and FMLA
If you encounter any of these issues, speaking with an experienced employment attorney can help you understand your rights and next steps.
What Compensation or Remedies Can You Pursue?
If your employer violates California leave laws, you may be entitled to:
- Lost wages
- Reinstatement to your position
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Attorney’s fees and costs
At Wilshire Law Firm, we fight to protect workers from unlawful practices and pursue the benefits and protections they deserve. No fees unless you get paid.
Steps to Take If You Need Paid Family Leave
- Review Eligibility
Check the EDD website or speak with HR to confirm you qualify. - Submit Your Claim
File your Paid Family Leave claim through the EDD portal. - Notify Your Employer
Provide written notice of your leave and expected return date. - Document Everything
Keep copies of all communications, claim forms, and medical certifications. - Seek Legal Help If Needed
If your employer retaliates or denies your rights, contact an employment lawyer immediately.
Why Choose Wilshire Law Firm?
- Award-Winning Legal Team: Recognized for excellence in employment and labor law.
- Proven Track Record: Successfully handling complex workplace rights cases.
- Client-First Approach: We prioritize your well-being and financial security.
- No Fees Unless You Get Paid: You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if you win.
Our attorneys understand the challenges workers face when balancing family responsibilities and job security. We provide compassionate, aggressive representation to help you move forward.
Speak With a California Employment Lawyer Today
If you have questions about Paid Family Leave or believe your employer violated your rights, don’t wait to get help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and deadlines for filing claims are strict under California law. Contact Wilshire Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the process. Call us now or fill out our online form to get started.
