California is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers can terminate employees at any time and for any reason, as long as it is not illegal. Similarly, employees can quit at any time. However, there are crucial exceptions to the at-will rule that protect employees from unlawful firing. If you suspect you were wrongfully terminated, contact our Aliso Viejo employment lawyers at Aegis Law Firm today for a confidential and free consultation.
Employers cannot terminate employees for the following reasons:
California’s labor laws and federal statutes ensure that employees are not terminated for unlawful reasons. These laws include:
FEHA prohibits employers from firing employees based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, disability, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or marital status.
Example: An employer cannot fire an employee after discovering they are pregnant or because of their ethnicity.
A federal law that prohibits discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Protects employees from retaliation for reporting workplace violations, unsafe conditions, or exercising their legal rights, such as filing for workers’ compensation.
These laws provide employees with the right to take job-protected leave for medical reasons, including caring for a family member or recovering from a serious health condition. Terminating an employee for taking leave under these acts is unlawful.
California Labor Code Section 1102.5 protects employees from being fired for reporting illegal activities or refusing to participate in unlawful conduct.
A wrongful termination lawyer provides invaluable support throughout your case, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
A lawyer will assess your situation to determine whether your termination violated California wrongful termination laws or your employment agreement.
They will gather documentation such as performance reviews, termination letters, emails, and witness statements to build a strong case.
If your termination involved discrimination or retaliation, your wrongful termination lawyer in Aliso Viejo can file complaints with agencies like the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on your behalf.
A wrongful termination attorney in Aliso Viejo can negotiate with your employer or their legal team to secure a fair settlement, potentially avoiding a lengthy court process.
If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting a compelling argument to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our Aliso Viejo wrongful termination lawyer is ready to fight for your rights and help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve. Call (949) 379-6250 or message us online to arrange a free consultation today.