Employment Law Lawyer in Berkeley

Berkeley’s Advocate for Fair Workplaces and Workers’ Rights

Are you facing a tough workplace situation or worried your rights are being overlooked? Whether you are an employee dealing with discrimination or wrongful termination, or an employer in Berkeley seeking guidance on compliance, legal support can be crucial. Every workplace presents its own set of challenges, and understanding your rights or responsibilities is often the starting point for moving forward. At Benton Employment Law, PC, we help people and businesses in Berkeley protect their rights and create better, fairer workplaces.

We often meet people who feel overwhelmed by employment laws and are unsure about what will happen next. Our team brings clarity, direction, and steady support so you can make informed decisions and take confident action. As a firm deeply rooted in the local community, we support clients in Berkeley who need a clear path through some of the most challenging employment disputes.

If you are searching for an employment law attorney in Berkeley with proven results and a deep understanding of the local landscape, you are in the right place. Our approach brings together legal strength and practical strategies customized for each client’s needs.

For trusted legal guidance, reach out to a knowledgeable employment law attorney in Berkeley. Call (510) 650-0250 or contact us immediately to schedule your consultation.

Why Choose Us for Your Employment Law Needs

When you are facing a workplace challenge, you need an attorney who recognizes the unique needs of both employees and employers in Berkeley. Our firm is founded on substantial trial and arbitration experience, as well as insight gained from years spent defending and representing major corporations such as Apple and Google. This background allows us to anticipate potential opposition strategies and deliver advice that is practical and effective for our clients.

Attorney Chambord Benton-Hayes, our founder, has been licensed to practice in California since 2011 and has spent more than a decade standing up for fair treatment at work. Our recognition includes selection to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars from 2021 to 2025 and being named a Daily Journal Top Plaintiff’s Attorney & Employment Litigator in California in 2024.

We work to restore balance and fairness for employees and employers. Our record includes impactful settlements, such as achieving the state’s top settlement for disability discrimination in 2023. Every case we take is guided by a commitment to results, thoughtful strategy, and meaningful advocacy.

Employment Law Services in Berkeley

Workplaces in Berkeley, including tech firms, educational institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, and local government, each face unique legal issues. Our firm assists clients with a wide range of employment law concerns, including:

We routinely advise and represent Berkeley clients in issues such as:

• Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, age, or other protected characteristics, under both California and local ordinances
• Harassment and hostile work environment claims involving local employers, academic settings, and startups
• Wrongful termination in violation of public policy or as retaliation for whistleblowing or protected activity
• Wage, overtime, and classification disputes, including claims under Berkeley’s local minimum wage and paid sick leave laws
• Guidance for employers seeking compliance with the City of Berkeley’s ordinances and state employment law

Every situation is different, and employment investigations may involve local offices of the California Civil Rights Department or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. We tailor our advice with an understanding of local workplace norms and city-specific regulations. For businesses, we offer strategies to promote compliance and address issues before they become costly disputes.

Our Proven Results: Impactful Advocacy in Action

Outcomes matter, especially when your career or company is on the line. At Benton Employment Law, PC, our history reflects both dedication and measurable results. In 2023, our firm secured three of the top settlements in California, including the largest for disability discrimination. These resolutions show our ability to successfully advocate for clients in high-stakes situations.

Attorney Chambord Benton-Hayes’s multiple-year selection to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and recent recognition by the Daily Journal highlight a consistent track record. Our firm’s understanding of both sides—having supported major employers as well as individuals—means we can effectively respond to complex defense strategies. We work to resolve disputes efficiently whenever possible and are prepared for litigation in Alameda County Superior Court if that is the best path for your case.

What to Do if You’re Facing a Workplace Issue in Berkeley

Taking action can feel intimidating, but you do not have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether you are an employee or an employer in Berkeley, certain practical steps can help protect your interests before you reach out for legal help.

Key steps to take if you suspect an employment law issue in Berkeley:

• Document the details: Keep records of incidents, dates, and communications. For employers, maintain thorough personnel files that align with city ordinances.
• Gather supporting documents: Collect payroll records, contracts, and correspondence that relate to your concerns or claims.
• Act promptly: Most employment claims—including discrimination—begin with complaints to the California Civil Rights Department and must meet strict filing deadlines.
• Consider internal channels: Use your employer’s HR or complaint procedures if available. Employers should ensure these systems follow Berkeley’s and California’s legal requirements.

When you contact us, we start by listening to your story. We will explain your options clearly, provide honest feedback, and outline the next steps. Our familiarity with institutions in Berkeley and experience before agencies like the California Civil Rights Department gives our clients an advantage in local matters. Whether your issue requires negotiation or a case in Alameda County Superior Court, our goal is to empower you at every stage.

Don't hesitate—reach o/ut to an experienced employment law lawyer in Berkeley now. Complete an online form to take the next step.