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Michael Trust Law, APC

Michael Trust Law, APC helps employees and employers with workplace claims. Provide only your name, contact info, parties involved, and a brief description. Do not send confidential details or documents. Submission does not create an attorney‑client relationship. By submitting, you consent to emails and texts. SMS/MMS rates may apply. See Disclaimer & Attorney Advertising pages for full terms.

Response times may vary, but are generally within 24 to 48 hours.

703 Pier Avenue
Ste. B367, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
michaeltrust@michaeltrustlaw.com

T : (424) 634-9333

Evening hours also available by appointment

Office Hours

  • Monday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
  • Tuesday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
  • Wednesday By appointment
  • Thursday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
  • Friday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
  • Saturday By appointment
  • Sunday Closed
  • Open Today 09:00 – 18:00

Evening and weekend hours by appointment.


Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly will I hear back?

We typically respond to all inquiries within 1-2 business days.

Do you handle cases outside of California?

No, our practice is limited to California employment law only.

Can I send you documents?

Please do not send any confidential documents through this form. After an initial consultation, we will provide secure methods for document sharing if we agree to representation.

Drop us a line!

Please do not send us any confidential information. Please send us only your name, telephone number, email address, the name(s) of the other parties involved, and a very general, brief description of your matter. By submitting information here, there is no creation of an Attorney-Client Relationship, and Michael Trust Law, APC does not represent you. Representation by Michael Trust Law, APC only occurs when there is a mutually signed fee agreement. Please see Attorney Advertising & Disclaimer. By submitting your information, you consent to emails and texts from Michael Trust Law, APC. SMS/Text message rates may apply. 

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Got a Question?

Explore Common Questions Answered by a California Employment Lawyer

Michael Trust Law, APC stands out as a premier employment law firm serving both employees and employers throughout Southern California. What sets us apart is our unique dual perspective - combining over 35 years of human resources experience with comprehensive legal expertise. This background allows us to understand workplace issues from both sides, providing strategic advantages whether you're an employee facing workplace injustice or an employer navigating compliance challenges.

Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our collaborative approach to dispute resolution, innovative use of technology to streamline legal services, and dedication to achieving results while maintaining the highest standards of integrity. As a California Certified Mediator, we employ effective dispute resolution techniques that keep our clients' best interests at the forefront of every case.

Our California employment law practice encompasses a comprehensive range of workplace-related matters under both federal and state law, including:

Workers' Compensation referrals - While we don't handle Workers' Compensation claims directly, we're happy to refer you to qualified Workers' Compensation attorneys. Often, employment law issues and Workers' Compensation matters arise from the same workplace incident, and we can coordinate with Workers' Compensation counsel when beneficial.

Employment discrimination cases under both federal law (Title VII, ADA, ADEA, PDA, PWFA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) involving pregnancy, lactation, race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics - with FEHA often providing broader protections than federal law.

Workplace retaliation claims under both federal anti-retaliation statutes and California law for employees who reported illegal activities, filed complaints, or exercised their legal rights.

Wage and hour disputes including unpaid overtime, off-the-clock work, meal and rest break violations, minimum wage issues, and California Labor Code violations.

Whistleblower protection under both federal whistleblower statutes and California's comprehensive whistleblower laws for employees who report illegal or unethical conduct.

Disability accommodation matters under both the Americans with Disabilitie.s Act (ADA) and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) - with FEHA providing broader protections than federal law.

Wrongful termination cases under both federal employment laws and California's at-will employment exceptions.

Sexual harassment claims and prevention under California's expanded harassment laws.

Hostile work environment situations - which legally requires conduct that is both severe or pervasive AND based on a protected characteristic such as race, gender, disability, or other protected class. Important: workplace bullying is not legally protected unless it's due to a protected characteristic. General workplace incivility, isolated incidents, or conflicts unrelated to protected characteristics typically don't qualify as legally actionable hostile work environments.

Employment and severance contract review, negotiation, and disputes.

California family and medical leave issues under both state and federal laws, including California pregnancy and lactation leave protections.

Workplace policy development and compliance strategies for employers navigating California's complex employment regulations.

Related legal matters - Employment issues sometimes involve additional claims such as wrongful death, survival actions, fraud, defamation, or negligence. We collaborate with specialized co-counsel in these areas while remaining fully engaged in all aspects of your case, actively participating in overall case strategy with co-counsel, and maintaining strategic control over the employment law components. This collaboration does not increase your fees/costs.

Michael Trust Law, APC represents decades of combined experience in employment law and human resources. Our founder brings over 35 years of specialized human resources experience to complement his legal practice, providing clients with an unparalleled understanding of workplace dynamics and employment law complexities.

This extensive background includes serving as a respected educator, having taught courses in employment law and HR, ensuring our practice stays current with evolving workplace regulations and best practices. Our firm's foundation is built on years of practical experience addressing workplace issues from multiple perspectives.

Michael Trust Law, APC operates as a modern, technology-forward practice designed for today's busy professionals. We provide comprehensive legal services virtually, allowing you to access expert employment law representation from the comfort and convenience of your own location.

Our virtual service model offers several advantages: flexible scheduling around your work and personal commitments, no travel time, and secure, confidential consultations using state-of-the-art technology. Whether you're dealing with a sensitive workplace issue or need urgent legal guidance, our virtual approach ensures you can access quality legal representation when you need it most.

For clients who prefer face-to-face meetings, we're happy to arrange in-person consultations at a convenient location. This flexibility ensures that every client receives legal services in the format that works best for their situation and preferences.

Our standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time. We understand that workplace issues don't always arise during convenient hours, so we also offer:

  • After-hours and weekend consultations by appointment for urgent matters or clients with demanding work schedules.
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate your professional and personal commitments.

Contact us to schedule a consultation at a time that works best for you - we're committed to being accessible when you need legal guidance most.

We offer a free 30-minute initial consultation to discuss your employment law matter and evaluate your case. During this consultation, we'll review your situation, explain your legal options under both federal and California law, and provide an honest assessment of your case's strengths and potential outcomes.

Our consultation process is designed to help you understand your rights under California's comprehensive employment laws and determine the best path forward without any pressure or obligation to proceed.

At Michael Trust Law, APC, we believe in fair, transparent pricing that reflects the value we provide. Our philosophy is straightforward: while we need to maintain a sustainable practice, we focus on providing exceptional value rather than charging excessive fees for routine services.

Our fee structure includes:

  • Contingency fee arrangements for employee matters, meaning you pay attorney fees only if we achieve a successful outcome for you (except for costs and expenses).
  • Hourly billing for matters where contingency fees aren't appropriate, such as contract review, severance/separation/settlement agreements, compliance consulting, or complex policy development.
  • Flat fee arrangements for specific, well-defined services.

We provide clear, upfront explanations of all costs and will never surprise you with unexpected charges. During your free initial consultation, we'll discuss the most appropriate fee structure for your specific situation, ensuring you understand exactly what legal representation will cost before moving forward.

When you choose Michael Trust Law, APC, you receive comprehensive legal representation that includes:

  • Thorough case evaluation utilizing our dual expertise in law and human resources, with specific focus on California employment law protections.
  • Strategic case development informed by decades of workplace experience and deep knowledge of California's unique employment landscape.
  • Strategic mediation services to resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.
  • Comprehensive litigation and arbitration support - when your case requires courtroom advocacy or arbitration, we partner with highly experienced and successful litigation co-counsel while actively participating in all aspects of your case and maintaining direct oversight of case strategy.
  • Regular communication and updates throughout your case, keeping you informed every step of the way.
  • Personalized attention from an experienced attorney who understands California's complex employment laws and your unique situation.
  • Access to cutting-edge legal technology that streamlines the legal process and enhances our efficiency.

Our commitment extends beyond legal representation to include education and guidance, helping you understand your rights under California law and make informed decisions about your workplace situation. Whether you're an employee seeking justice or an employer needing compliance guidance, you receive dedicated advocacy focused on achieving the best possible outcome for your specific circumstances.