Wrongful termination refers to an employer’s action of dismissing an employee in violation of legal rights, employment agreements, or company policies. It often involves termination based on discriminatory practices, retaliation, breach of contract, or violation of labor laws.
Understanding one’s legal rights in employment disputes is crucial, as it empowers employees to recognize and respond effectively to unjust and illegal workplace practices.
Wrongful termination occurs when an employment contract or statutory provision is breached during the dismissal of an employee.
Key examples include firings that violate anti-discrimination laws, terminations made in retaliation for an employee’s legal activities (such as whistleblowing), or dismissals that breach the terms of an employment contract.
It’s important to differentiate between at-will employment, where an employer can dismiss employees without a reason, and wrongful termination, which is inherently illegal.
Being aware of signs that may indicate wrongful termination is critical for employees. These signs include:
Certain scenarios strongly indicate the need for legal advice, including:
In these scenarios, consulting with an experienced wrongful termination lawyer becomes essential to understanding and protecting your legal rights.
👉Also read: Unjustly Dismissed? Essential Legal Steps in Filing a Wrongful Termination Claim
In California, employees enjoy a range of protections under state labor laws. These include:
Anti-Discrimination Protections: California law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more.
Retaliation Protection: Employees are safeguarded against retaliation for engaging in legally protected activities like whistleblowing or filing discrimination complaints.
Family and Medical Leave: California provides broader family and medical leave rights compared to federal law, including paid sick leave and pregnancy disability leave.
Fair Compensation: Laws ensuring minimum wage, overtime pay, and meal and rest breaks are rigorously enforced.
Victims of wrongful termination in California can pursue several legal avenues, such as:
Filing a wrongful termination claim with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office: For violations of wage laws and certain types of unlawful terminations.
Filing a Discrimination Complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH): If the termination involved discrimination or harassment.
Civil Lawsuit for Breach of Contract: If there was a breach of an explicit or implied employment contract.
Tort Claims: In cases of termination that involve defamation, fraud, or invasion of privacy.
Each of these options has its own procedures, limitations, and potential remedies. Therefore, consulting with an attorney experienced in California employment law is crucial to navigate these options effectively and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Legal representation in wrongful termination cases is vital due to the complexity of employment laws and the challenges of proving wrongful dismissal.
An experienced lawyer can:
Before reaching out to a California wrongful termination lawyer, it’s crucial to gather relevant documentation and evidence.
Essential documentation includes:
When you’re facing the turbulence of a wrongful termination, your first empowering step is to engage in a free and confidential consultation with a firm like Hershey Law Firm.
Our experienced employment attorneys create a safe space to help you unpack your story, understand your legal rights, and assess the potential of your case—all without any financial obligations.
👉Also read: Tips for Handling Workplace Retaliation
With expert legal representation, like the seasoned wrongful termination attorneys at Hershey Law Firm, you harness the power to navigate the complex terrain of employment law confidently. Their expertise is your shield and guide, ensuring that your rights are fiercely protected and your voice heard.
If you would like to learn more about wrongful termination lawsuits or speak with our attorneys about wrongful termination claims, contact us at (310) 929-2190.
Hershey Law is an employment law firm serving Los Angeles, Orange County, and the surrounding areas. We’ve been able to successfully assist hundreds of clients, and are looking forward to potentially being able to work with you.