Exploring Remedies for Breaches of Employment Contracts

When your employer breaks the terms of your employment agreement in some way, it can be incredibly frustrating. However, as an employee in California, you have legal rights and options available to you in these circumstances. Understanding what constitutes a breach of contract and the remedies available can help you navigate this potentially challenging situation with confidence.

At Olivier & Schreiber PC, our experienced employment attorneys help workers throughout California protect their rights, including when employment contracts are violated. We are here to provide guidance through every step of the legal process.

What is a Breach of an Employment Contract?

An employment contract breach occurs when either you or your employer fails to fulfill the terms outlined in your employment agreement. These violations can take several forms.

Common employer breaches include:

• Failing to pay agreed wages, bonuses, or commissions
• Withholding promised benefits like health insurance or severance
• Wrongfully terminating you without cause
• Not providing agreed-upon working conditions

Breaches of contract can be categorized in various ways. The four main types include:

• Material Breach: A violation that defeats the contract’s main purpose due to one party not upholding their end of it
• Minor Breach: Some form of failure to adhere to the contract despite the contract being fulfilled
• Anticipatory Breach: When one party indicates in advance that they will not meet future obligations
• Actual Breach: One party’s failure to perform, or incomplete performance, based on contract terms, often due to timing

What Are My Rights if My Employment Contract is Breached?

When your employment contract is breached, California law provides several remedies to help make you whole again. Your rights depend on the specific violation and its impact on your situation.

Building Your Case

To pursue a successful breach of contract claim, you will need to establish:

1. A valid contract existed (written, oral, or implied)
2. The other party breached their duties under the agreement
3. You suffered measurable harm as a result of the breach

Experienced contract attorneys are invaluable for this process, as they understand the intricacies of California employment law.

Available Legal Remedies

When you have a valid claim, you can pursue various forms of damages against your employer.

Compensatory Damages

Financial compensation to cover your actual losses, including elements such as:

• Unpaid wages or benefits
• Lost earnings from wrongful termination
• Career advancement opportunities you missed

Consequential Damages

Repayment for indirect consequences of the breach of contract.

Liquidated Damages

Payment of pre-agreed compensation amounts which were specified in your contract for specific types of breaches.

Protect Your Rights After a Breach of Contract

Employment contract disputes can significantly impact your career and financial security, which is why having legal counsel by your side can be invaluable as you navigate such circumstances. The experienced attorneys at Olivier & Schreiber PC have successfully represented numerous employees in employment law cases. We can evaluate your situation, explain your options clearly, and help you fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.

Contact us today for a consultation. Your rights matter, and our team is here to protect them.