Although most of California’s expanded crime victims’ leave requirements took effect back on January 1, 2025, the notice requirement didn’t kick in until now – because the Civil Rights Department (CRD) had to first create and publish a model notice for employers.
That notice was officially released on July 1, 2025, and as of that date, all employers must comply.
The new notice informs employees of their rights under California’s crime victims’ leave law, including:
- The right to take time off for jury duty, court appearances, or when the employee or a family member is a victim of a crime
- Confidentiality protections for victims
- Reasonable accommodations to help ensure safety
- Protection from retaliation or discrimination
- Possible eligibility for wage replacement and leave under other laws, such as the California Family Rights Act and bereavement leave
Employers are now required to provide the notice:
- Upon hire
- Annually to all employees
- Upon request
- Any time an employee reports that they or a family member has been a victim of a qualifying crime
The notice has been translated into 15 languages and should be included in your new hire packets and available to all employees. HR teams and managers should also be trained on these updated rights and requirements.
Download the Model Notice:
The CRD has also issued a FAQ regarding this notice:
- General eligibility and protections
- When and how time off can be taken
- Reasonable accommodations for safety
Acceptable documentation to certify an absence includes:
- Police reports
- Court documents or proof of a court appearance
- Statements from service providers
- Employee-signed statements or other credible documentation verifying an act of violence
All documentation must remain confidential unless legally required or needed to protect the employee’s safety – such as calling authorities in an emergency.
If you need help understanding your responsibilities under this law or updating your new hire and annual employee materials, JorgensenHR is here to help. Contact us at info@jorgensenhr.com or call 661-600-2070.
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