Know Your Rights: New Law AB 1870 Requires Employers to Inform Injured Workers of Their Right to an Attorney

If you’ve been injured at work in California, there’s a new law designed to protect your rights. Assembly Bill 1870 (AB 1870), effective in 2025, now requires all employers to clearly inform injured workers that they have the right to consult with an attorney regarding their workers’ compensation claim. This means that if your employer hasn’t provided you with this information, they may be violating state law.

What Does California’s New Workers’ Comp Law Do?

AB 1870 mandates that all California employers prominently display a workers’ comp poster that includes a clear statement about an injured worker’s right to legal representation. This measure aims to prevent workers from being misled or pressured into accepting inadequate benefits without fully understanding their legal options.

Many non-union employees, especially those in industries like retail, warehousing, hospitality, construction, and manufacturing, may not be aware that they can have legal representation throughout the workers’ compensation process. This law seeks to level the playing field by ensuring all workers have access to critical information about their rights.

Why This Law Matters for Injured Workers

Too often, employers and insurance companies try to discourage injured workers from seeking legal advice. Without an attorney, you might not receive the full benefits you’re entitled to, such as medical treatment, temporary disability payments, or a fair settlement for permanent disability. With this new law in place, employers must now actively inform you that:

• You have the right to consult with an attorney at any stage of your claim.
• An attorney can help protect your interests and ensure you’re not pressured into settling for less than you deserve.
• Your employer cannot retaliate against you for seeking legal representation.

Related Article: Hurt on the Job? An Attorney from SoCal Workers’ Comp Can Help

What to Do If Your Employer Fails to Comply

If your employer has not displayed the required workers’ comp poster that informs you of your right to an attorney, they may be in violation of AB 1870. Here’s what you can do:

1. Document Everything – Take a photo of your workplace’s workers’ compensation poster (or lack thereof) to show whether the required information is missing.
2. Ask for the Poster – Politely request that your employer provide the required notice. If they refuse, this could indicate an attempt to suppress your rights.
3. Consult a Workers’ Comp Attorney – If you believe your employer is not complying with the law, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you take the necessary legal steps to protect your claim.

Don’t Let Your Employer Dictate Your Rights

Employers and insurance companies often delay, deny, or reduce benefits to injured workers who don’t have legal representation. Seeking legal help early can prevent unfair treatment and ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under California law.

Related Article: What Kind of Benefits Can I Expect if My Workers’ Compensation Claim is Approved?

Take Action Now

If your employer hasn’t informed you of your right to an attorney, contact SoCal Workers Comp today for a free case review. Our experienced California workers’ compensation lawyers will guide you through the process and fight for the benefits you deserve.

Still unsure if you need legal help? Find out how a workers’ comp lawyer at SoCal Workers Comp can help secure the benefits you deserve by reaching out to our team today.