California Wrongful Termination Lawyers
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- Top Rated Trial Firm
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
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Our team of wrongful termination lawyers is dedicated to championing the rights of employees unjustly dismissed from their roles. With deep expertise in California employment law, we offer personalized legal representation to those wrongfully terminated.
In 2020 alone, retaliation claims, which constitute about 41% of all Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) claims, had a total monetary value exceeding $106 million, highlighting the prevalent challenges employees face in the workplace.
At our firm, we maintain a transparent and communicative approach, empowering our clients with the necessary knowledge to navigate their legal journey.
We understand the critical nature of these cases; wrongful termination suits often culminate in a median award of $70,000 for successful plaintiffs, highlighting the significant impact on individuals’ lives.
We are committed to securing the best outcomes for our clients through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Why Choose Feher Law?
When you place your employment law matter in our hands, you unlock benefits tailored to your needs:
- Empathetic Approaches: We recognize the distress and vulnerability often intertwined with seeking legal aid, particularly in cases of wrongful termination or discrimination. Our methodology prioritizes empathy and support, guiding you seamlessly through the legal journey.
- Litigation and Trial Mastery: Our team boasts extensive expertise across all legal arenas from the initial claim filing to navigating intricate litigation and trial proceedings. We employ strategic insights to present your case compellingly, ensuring the justice you rightfully deserve.
- Proven Success: Feher Law boasts a formidable track record of securing significant compensation for individuals embroiled in work-related legal disputes. For instance, in April 2021, we championed a case for a gentleman unfairly dismissed after sustaining injuries at his workplace. Despite California law stating otherwise, his employer terminated him instead of exploring mutually beneficial solutions. We advocated tirelessly on his behalf, resulting in a victorious settlement of $1 million.
CASE RESULTS
RESULTS FROM OUR MOST RECENT CASES
Curious About What our Clients Have to Say?
Check out our testimonials to hear first-hand experiences and insights from those we’ve had the privilege to represent.
Meet Our Team Of Experienced Wrongful Termination Lawyers
Each member brings a wealth of knowledge, skill, and dedication to pursuing justice for our clients. With a collective commitment to upholding rights and navigating complex legal terrain, our team stands ready to advocate fiercely on your behalf.
From initial consultation to courtroom representation, trust our team of California employment lawyers to provide compassionate support and strategic guidance every step of the way.
Wrongful Termination in the Workplace
Wrongful termination is defined as the illegal dismissal of an employee in violation of federal, state, or local laws, or the terms of an employment agreement.
This includes terminations that breach anti-discrimination laws, violate labor regulations, or contravene public policy by firing an employee. Common unethical reasons for the firing are:
- Reporting illegal activities
- Participating in jury duty
- Taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act
It also encompasses dismissals that contradict explicit or implied promises made in employment contracts. In essence, wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired under circumstances that are legally or contractually unjustifiable.
Laws regarding wrongful firing can vary depending on where you are, so knowing what protections you have in your area is important.
Talking to a California work law expert can help you determine whether your firing wasn’t fair and what you can do about it under the law.
Insights into Wrongful Termination Laws
- California’s Employment Standards: Within California, employers typically have the authority to terminate employees at will, meaning they can do so without providing a specific reason.
- Whistleblower Shield: California’s whistleblower statutes shield employees who report illegal activities, violations of laws, or hazardous working conditions. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against whistleblowers, including termination, demotion, or harassment.
- Protection from Retaliation: California state law expressly prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who engage in protected activities. These activities include reporting workplace discrimination or harassment, filing complaints with regulatory agencies, participating in investigations, or exercising their lawful rights.
- Safeguarding Against Discrimination: California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) mandates that employers cannot dismiss employees based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, or national origin.
- Adherence to Contractual Agreements: If an employment contract, either written or implied, is in place, termination by the employer without a just cause or adherence to prescribed procedures may constitute wrongful termination.
- Potential Remedies: Employees may be entitled to a range of remedies, including reinstatement, back pay, front pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and reimbursement for attorney fees.
- Exceptions Based on Public Policy: California recognizes wrongful termination claims arising from violations of public policy. For example, terminating an employee for refusing to participate in illegal activities, reporting workplace safety infractions, or exercising lawful rights may warrant legal action.
Have You Been Wrongfully Terminated?
Assessing whether your dismissal was wrongful involves examining the circumstances and knowing your rights. Here are signs that you were a victim of wrongful termination:
- Because of traits like race, gender, age, religion, disability, or pregnancy.
- Let go in retaliation for actions like reporting harassment, filing complaints, or using your rights.
- Had an employment contract and was fired against its terms.
- Your firing goes against public policy, like refusing illegal activities or whistleblowing.
- Your employer lets you go for reasons against the law or company rules.
Why Hire a California Unlawful Termination Attorney?
When faced with the complexities of wrongful termination in California, seeking the expertise of a seasoned attorney is paramount. Here’s why we feel that engaging with an experienced California wrongful termination lawyer is so important:
- Legal Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of these laws, ensuring your case is handled with precision.
- Case Assessment: Evaluate and analyze your dismissal’s circumstances, review pertinent evidence, and determine the legal grounds for seeking compensation or reinstatement.
- Strategic Planning: Create a tailored approach based on the specifics of your case, leveraging their expertise to enhance your prospects for success.
- Negotiation Skills: Advocate on your behalf during these discussions, striving to secure a fair and equitable resolution aligned with your goals.
- Litigation Representation with a compelling case supported by evidence and persuasive arguments.
- Emotional Support: Provide the support and guidance you need throughout the legal process, offering reassurance and clarity during a difficult time.
- Maximizing Compensation: Work diligently to maximize your compensation, ensuring you are fairly reimbursed for the harm you have endured.
California Wrongful Termination Statute of Limitations
Failing to act promptly means you may forfeit your right to seek justice through legal channels.
Thus, it’s vital to consult with a qualified attorney to assess your case, explore potential remedies, and determine the best course of action within the prescribed timeline.
For further guidance on your specific circumstances, contact us today for a free initial consultation.
First Things to Do After Being Wrongfully Terminated
To protect your legal rights and start addressing your unfair dismissal from a job in California, follow these initial steps:
- Keep thorough records of your termination, noting dates, times, conversations, and any evidence supporting your case. This might include emails, performance reviews, or statements from witnesses.
- Carefully examine your employment contract, employee handbook, or other relevant documents to understand your rights and any termination-related clauses.
- Schedule a consultation with our experienced employment attorneys to discuss your situation and explore potential legal avenues available to you.
- If you’re eligible, apply for unemployment benefits to provide financial support while you pursue legal action against your former employer.
- To strengthen your wrongful termination claim, collect additional evidence, such as performance evaluations, witness statements, or correspondence with your employer.
- Depending on the circumstances of your termination, contemplate filing a complaint with relevant government agencies like the EEOC or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). These agencies can investigate potential violations of employment laws and provide further recourse.
Evidence Needed to File a Wrongful Termination Lawsuit
To prove you have been unfairly fired from your job you will need to gather proof. Here’s what you should collect to make your case stronger:
- Employment Records: Get copies of your job contract, performance reviews, and other papers that explain your job and how well you did it.
- Termination Notice: Check this document to see why you got fired; it might help challenge your boss’s decision.
- Emails and Letters: Save any emails or letters about your firing, especially from HR or your boss. They could show why you were fired or if there was discrimination.
- Witness Statements: Get statements from people who saw what happened before you got fired or know about any unfair treatment at work.
- Performance Reviews: Get copies of your reviews or any awards you got at work. Good reviews can prove you weren’t doing a bad job.
- Proof of Discrimination or Retaliation: If you think you were fired because of discrimination or retaliation, gather evidence supporting your claim, like unfair treatment or complaints you made.
- Company Policies: Look at your company’s rules to see if they followed them when they fired you. If not, it might show something’s wrong.
- Work History: Write down all the dates you worked, any promotions or raises, and any times you got in trouble at work. This will show how good you were as an employee.
- Money Lost: Keep track of any money you lost because of getting fired, like wages, benefits, or costs from trying to find a new job.
You Pay No Upfront Fees With Us
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay any upfront fees. Instead, our fee is contingent upon winning your case. If we successfully resolve your case and you receive compensation, we will take a percentage of the amount recovered as their fee.
We understand that legal fees can be daunting, which is why at Feher Law you will not pay any fees unless you win.
Other Locations Our California Wrongful Termination Law Firm Serves
Throughout California, our dedicated team is ready to provide exceptional legal representation and support wherever you are, including but not limited to:
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Experts in Various Areas of Employment Law
Our experienced team is knowledgeable across all the major areas of employment law, including:
Do You Need a Wrongful Termination Attorney? Contact Us Today!
Ready to take action against wrongful termination? Feher Law is here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and expertise.
When you contact us, you’ll receive personalized attention from our experienced attorneys, who will listen to your story, assess your situation, and provide you with clear guidance on the next steps to take.
We understand the emotional and financial toll that wrongful termination can take, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t wait to assert your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and fight against wrongful termination.
GET A FREE CONSULTATION
Our team is standing by and ready to assist you. Consultations are completely free and confidential. We will help you determine if you have a case.
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
- No Fees Unless We Win
- We Fight for Maximum Compensation
- Get The Justice You Deserve
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FAQs
How can I prevent wrongful termination in the workplace?
Employers can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of wrongful termination claims by ensuring compliance with employment laws, providing clear policies and procedures for handling disciplinary actions and terminations, conducting thorough investigations into employee complaints, and fostering a culture of respect and fairness in the workplace.
Training managers and supervisors on anti-discrimination and retaliation laws and implementing regular reviews of employment practices can also help protect employees from wrongful termination.
Can I be fired for any reason?
California is an at-will state, meaning employers can generally terminate employees for any reason or no reason at all, there are significant exceptions to this rule. Certain exceptions to the at-will law, such as discrimination, retaliation, or violation of public policy.
What are the potential consequences for employers who wrongfully terminate employees?
Employers who engage in wrongful termination may face various consequences, including legal liability, financial penalties, and damage to their reputation. Depending on the circumstances, employees may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney fees.
Additionally, employers may be required to take corrective action, such as reinstating the terminated employee or implementing policy changes to prevent future violations.
What role do government agencies play in addressing wrongful termination claims in California?
Agencies such as the EEOC and the DFEH play a vital role in investigating and resolving wrongful termination claims. Employees who believe they have been wrongfully terminated may file complaints with these agencies, which can lead to investigations and potential legal action against the employer.
