Best Wrongful Termination Lawyers in California

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Paul Hastings
Century City, United States

Founded in 1951
5,000 people in their team
English
With widely recognized elite teams in finance, mergers & acquisitions, private equity, restructuring and special situations, litigation, employment and real estate, Paul Hastings is a premier law firm providing superior intellectual capital and execution globally to the world’s leading...
RP Law Group
San Bernardino, United States

Founded in 2003
English
RP Law Group, based in Riverside, California, specializes in workers' compensation and personal injury cases. Founded in 2003 by attorney Raj Patel, the firm has successfully handled over 1,000 cases, recovering millions in compensation for clients. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of...
BakerHostetler attorneys
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1916
5,000 people in their team
English
Established in 1916, BakerHostetler is one of the largest law firms in the U.S., with more than 1,000 lawyers and 18 offices across the country. We handle clients’ most critical legal matters - securing advantageous outcomes amid regulatory scrutiny and bet-the-company litigation; closing deals...
Wrongful Termination Law Group
Cerritos, United States

English
Wrongful Termination Law Group is a highly respected California-based law firm devoted exclusively to protecting the rights of employees who have experienced unlawful termination, discrimination, or workplace retaliation. The firm's skilled team of attorneys brings decades of specialized experience...
Khalil Law Group
Newport Beach, United States

English
Khalil Law Group is a premier California law firm recognized for its strong expertise in employment law and personal injury cases. With a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to advocating for employee rights and accident victims, the firm has built a solid reputation for effective legal...
Stradling
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1975
200 people in their team
English
For nearly 50 years, top companies and municipalities have counted on Stradling to have the right team and skills to meet their toughest challenges 24/7, 365 days a year.Stradling is a leading business law firm with 115 lawyers providing experienced counsel in critical transactions and disputes...
BG Law
Woodland, United States

Founded in 1987
200 people in their team
English
At BG Law we listenWe are more than attorneys - we are dealmakers. We leverage our business backgrounds and creative insight into the most sensible advice and counsel for clients. Many of our attorneys are former bankers, accountants, business owners and professionals, who call upon years of...
Theodora Oringher
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Since its founding, Theodora Oringher has developed into a legal powerhouse boutique. We are regularly called upon by clients as their go-to firm for sophisticated, high-stakes litigation. We also provide sound and wise counsel to businesses on transactions and operations issues. Our client roster...
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1948
1,700 people in their team
English
The traits that fueled Skadden’s rise from a New York startup to a global powerhouse - collaborative, innovative, persistent - continue to define our firm culture. We remain intensely focused on the simple formula of developing an inclusive complement of extraordinary attorneys, working together...
Rutan & Tucker lawyers
Irvine, United States

Founded in 1955
500 people in their team
English
Rutan & Tucker lawyers are experienced and highly regarded experts, delivering sophisticated and superior client service and value in a wide-range of practice areas, markets and industries. Our lawyers enjoy what they do and appreciate the opportunity to help our clients achieve their goals. We...
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United States Wrongful Termination Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 1 legal question about Wrongful Termination in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Wrongfully suspended from work
Employment & Labor Wrongful Termination
My job has me on suspension right now. And it's going on for a week. Since. I haven't heard from anyone. I work for a union company and. I'm disappointed with how they're handling my case. What advice can you give me? At this point, I'm under emotional stress and... Read more →
Lawyer answer by Nomos Legal Practice

Thank you and best regards, Kingsley Izimah, Esq. SK Solicitors

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1 answer

About Wrongful Termination Law in California, United States

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for an unlawful reason. In California, employees are generally considered "at-will," meaning employers can let go of them at any time, with or without cause. However, there are important exceptions. If an employer terminates someone for reasons that violate state or federal laws or breach an employment contract, this may be deemed wrongful termination. Examples include firing an employee due to their race, gender, whistleblowing, or in retaliation for reporting illegal activities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Facing wrongful termination can be distressing and confusing. While some employees are certain their dismissal was unfair, not all will know when it crosses into illegal territory. People may need legal assistance if:

  • They suspect discrimination based on race, age, gender, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics played a role in their firing.
  • They reported workplace safety violations or illegal activity and were then terminated (retaliation).
  • They were fired after taking medical or family leave they were legally entitled to.
  • An employer breached a written or implied contract concerning their employment.
  • They have been pressured or coerced into resigning, which can sometimes qualify as “constructive dismissal.”
  • An employer failed to follow company discipline or termination policies as outlined in employee handbooks or contracts.

A lawyer can help evaluate your situation, gather evidence, assess the strength of your claim, and guide you through filing a complaint or pursuing litigation if appropriate.

Local Laws Overview

California offers robust protections for employees against wrongful termination, both through state labor codes and regulations interpreted by California courts. Key aspects of local laws include:

  • Protected Classes: California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits employment discrimination based on sex, age, race, national origin, disability, religion, and more.
  • Retaliation Protections: Employers cannot fire you for reporting harassment, safety violations, wage issues, or participating in investigations.
  • Leave Laws: Employees have the right to take certain protected leaves (such as family, medical, and pregnancy leave) without fear of termination.
  • Implied Contracts: While most arrangements are at-will, verbal promises, policies, or employer conduct creating a reasonable expectation of job security may limit an employer’s ability to terminate you freely.
  • Whistleblower Protections: State law shields employees from termination when they report certain types of illegal activity by their employer.
  • Statute of Limitations: Time limits for filing a wrongful termination claim vary, often ranging from six months to several years depending on the claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as wrongful termination in California?

Wrongful termination happens when an employee is fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination, retaliation, violation of public policy, or breach of contract.

Can I be fired for no reason in California?

Yes, California is an at-will employment state, which means you can generally be fired at any time without reason, unless the termination is illegal or violates a contract.

What are some examples of illegal reasons for firing an employee?

Illegal reasons include firing someone due to their race, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, for taking protected leave, whistleblowing, or participating in workplace investigations.

What is considered retaliation?

Retaliation occurs if your employer fires you for engaging in legally protected activities, such as complaining about workplace discrimination or reporting safety violations.

Does my employer need to give me a reason for firing me?

No, unless there is an employment contract or company policy stating otherwise. However, if you suspect the real reason was illegal, you may have grounds for a claim.

What should I do if I believe I have been wrongfully terminated?

Document the circumstances around your dismissal, save any correspondence, and consider consulting a lawyer or filing a complaint with the relevant state agency.

How long do I have to file a wrongful termination claim?

Time limits differ depending on the type of claim. For discrimination claims, you typically have three years to file with the California Civil Rights Department. Other claims may have shorter or longer deadlines.

Can I still file a claim if I quit my job?

Potentially, if you were forced to resign due to intolerable working conditions created by the employer. This is known as constructive discharge.

What compensation can I receive if my wrongful termination claim succeeds?

You may recover lost wages, benefits, emotional distress damages, reinstatement, and sometimes punitive damages or attorney's fees.

Do I need a lawyer to file a wrongful termination claim?

While not required, a lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and navigate the complex legal process. This increases your chances of a successful claim.

Additional Resources

There are several organizations and government bodies that provide support and information for wrongful termination cases in California, including:

  • California Civil Rights Department (formerly Department of Fair Employment and Housing)
  • California Labor Commissioner’s Office (Division of Labor Standards Enforcement)
  • United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
  • Local legal aid foundations and employment law advocacy groups
  • State Bar of California for lawyer referral services

Next Steps

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, start by gathering as much documentation as possible, including job performance reviews, correspondence with your employer, and any company handbooks or policies. Consult with an experienced California employment lawyer who can assess your case and explain your rights. You may also wish to file a complaint with the relevant state agency, such as the California Civil Rights Department, especially if you suspect discrimination or retaliation. Take timely action, as filing deadlines can be strict. Having professional legal guidance early on is crucial to successfully asserting your rights and pursuing compensation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in California through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Wrongful Termination, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in California, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.