Getting fired isn’t a pleasant feeling. In fact, if you have had the unfortunate experience, you most likely had a mixture of emotions, ranging from anger to sadness. What if your frustration wasn’t misplaced? There are many instances where people are let go illegally. If you feel that you have been wrongfully terminated, you should call a labor lawyer to have your potential claim reviewed.
At-Will Employment
The state of California is an at-will state, meaning employment is at the will of the employer. Thus, the employment relationship is exactly what it sounds like – in the absence of an employment contract, your employer is free to let you go whenever they want so long as the actual reason does not violate applicable state and federal guidelines. In fact, when an employer fires or lays off an employee, the company does not have to give the employee a reason for the termination. When no reason is given the burden shifts to the employee to demonstrate that the actual reason for termination was something illegal, thereby giving rise to a potential claim for wrongful termination.
Illegal Reasons for Termination
If a fired employee can demonstrate that he or she was fired for one of the following reasons (among several others), he or she in all likelihood have an actionable claim for wrongful termination.
- Discrimination Due to Age, Race, Color, Religion, Sex, National Origin, Ethnicity, Disability or Veteran Status
- Discrimination Because Of Pregnancy
- Sexual Harassment
- Retaliation or Termination for Reporting Unethical or Illegal Behavior (Whistle Blower)
- Punishment for Taking Family Leave or Using Employee Benefits
Get the Help You Need for a Wrongful Termination Claim
If you feel you have been wrongfully terminated, you should have your potential claim investigated. Call us today or complete the form below to schedule a consultation. We will examine your claim and see if you have a case. Let us fight for you.
The Carter Law Firm, located in Newport Beach, specializes in employment law, including claims for wrongful termination and wage violations such as unpaid overtime. Contact us today if you have been wronged.
