This so sucks, and I wish you and your family well in weathering the setback.
My advice is to contact the CA Dept of Labor to learn of your rights (for free)
DoL before paying an attorney to provide the same information.
Another possibility is putting a lein on the building, if they own it. They will not be able to sell it, without satisfying the lein. I think it is important that you get in front of the line of creditors that are owed.
Best to you.
Pen