Getting fired is never easy, but if you were let go for unfair reasons, you might have legal options. California has strong worker protections, and wrongful termination is a serious issue. If your employer fired you due to discrimination, retaliation, or violating an employment contract, you could have a case. At Lipeles Law Group, we’re here to break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand.
What Counts as Wrongful Termination?
In California, most jobs are “at-will,” meaning employers can fire employees for any reason—except illegal ones. Here are a few ways a termination might be considered unlawful:
- Discrimination: If you were fired because of your race, gender, age, religion, disability, or another protected characteristic, that’s illegal. Learn more about how losing hours or pay due to your age could be a violation of your rights.
- Retaliation: If you reported workplace misconduct, such as harassment or unsafe working conditions, and were fired as a result, that’s a violation of labor laws.
- Breach of contract: If you had a signed contract stating specific job terms, including employment length, and your employer ignored it, you might have a claim.
- Public policy violations: If your firing goes against public policy—such as being terminated for taking legally protected leave (like medical or family leave)—you could have a wrongful termination case.
How Do You Prove Wrongful Termination?
To have a strong case, you need evidence. Here are some things that can help:
- Emails and Messages: Keep records of any communication that hints at discrimination or retaliation.
- Company Policies: If your firing violates company policies, that strengthens your case.
- Employment Contracts: If you have a contract that guarantees certain conditions, it could be a key piece of evidence.
- Witness Testimonies: Co-workers who saw unfair treatment can provide statements supporting your claim.
What Should You Do Next?
If you think you were wrongfully fired, do not let it slide. You have rights, and you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and more. The best step you can take is to talk to an attorney before signing anything from your employer.
Wrongful termination cases often overlap with civil rights violations—employers, landlords, and even law enforcement agencies sometimes infringe on workers’ fundamental protections. Read more about civil rights violations in California and how to protect yourself.
At Lipeles Law Group, we help workers hold employers accountable. If you believe you were fired for unfair reasons, contact us today. Let’s fight for the justice you deserve.