Wrongful Termination Lawyers in Los Angeles
Unfair terminations happen every day in Los Angeles, and they happen for many reasons. When those reasons are illegal or breach a contract, that's when victims have a case for wrongful termination. That's also where we come in.
At Lawyers for Employee & Consumer Rights (LFECR), our wrongful termination attorneys understand California's complex employment laws and the ways employers try to sidestep them.
If you believe you were fired unjustly, working with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles can make all the difference. We will evaluate your case thoroughly and build a strategy that puts your best interests first.
I can not speak highly enough. An immense thank you to my attorney and the entire team! Very professional, communicative and highly knowledgeable. Will recommend.
Mel Luna
Local Guide
I had a truly remarkable experience with the legal professionals who represented me, they exhibited an impressive level of expertise and insight regarding the specifics of my case. They provided me with thorough guidance and support...
Local Guide
I got a settlement when I didn't even expect a dime. I wasn't there to hear them or even see them fighting for me, but the fact that they were able to get me compensation was all that made the ultimate difference between me and my ex employer. Thanks.
Steve Uitz
Local Guide
Understanding Wrongful Termination in California
In California, wrongful termination claims can arise from many situations. Some are obvious, like firing someone because of their race or religion. Other situations are more subtle, like quietly letting someone go soon after they report safety hazards or request medical leave.
Discrimination
Being fired because of a protected personal characteristic, such as race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. These protections come from both California and federal laws.
Retaliation
Losing your job after speaking up about harassment, wage theft, safety violations, or illegal company practices.
Public Policy Violations
Being dismissed for refusing to commit an illegal act, serving on a jury, taking legally protected leave, or engaging in other actions protected by law.
Whistleblower Retaliation
Being terminated for reporting wrongdoing to government agencies or other authorities.
Breach of Contract
An employer breaking the terms of a written, verbal, or implied agreement about job security or termination conditions.
Protected Leave Violations
Being fired for requesting or taking family, medical, or pregnancy leave as allowed under California and federal law.
Warning Signs Your Firing May Be Illegal
Employers are not likely to admit wrongful motives. Instead, they may give vague reasons like “restructuring” or “poor performance.”
Sometimes these explanations are truthful, but sometimes they are excuses to hide discrimination or retaliation.
Look for these red flags:
- You were let go soon after reporting harassment, unsafe conditions, or wage violations.
- You were fired soon after requesting medical leave, family leave, or workplace accommodation.
- You received positive performance reviews but were still dismissed for a clear reason.
- Co-workers in similar roles were treated more favorably despite similar performance.
- You were targeted after refusing to take part in unethical or illegal activities.
If any of these seem familiar, it’s worth speaking with a wrongful termination lawyer to find out if your rights were violated.
How long do you have to file a wrongful termination claim?
Time is critical in wrongful termination cases. The deadlines, called statutes of limitations, depend on the type of claim. Missing the statute of limitations can mean losing your rights, including your right to seek compensation.
In California:
- Claims for discrimination or retaliation under state law generally must be filed within three years of the discriminatory or retaliatory act.
- Federal discrimination claims with the EEOC typically must be filed within 300 days.
- Breach of contract claims are often limited to two years for unwritten contracts (CCP §339) and four years for written contracts (CCP §337).
- Certain whistleblower claims must be filed within two years or less.
Because each case is different, getting legal advice as soon as possible is the best way to make sure you meet all filing deadlines.
FAQs
What is wrongful termination?
Wrongful termination (also called wrongful dismissal or unlawful termination) occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of the law, the terms of an employment contract, or established workplace policies. It means the employee’s discharge was not legally justified.
Do I have to go to court to resolve my wrongful termination case?
Not necessarily. Many cases are resolved through negotiations, mediation, or settlement before ever reaching trial. Your lawyer will advise on the best strategy for your goals and situation.
How long does a wrongful termination case take?
Timelines vary widely based on complexity, the employer’s willingness to settle, and court scheduling. Some cases resolve in months, while others may take a year or more. Your lawyer can give you a realistic estimate after reviewing your situation.
How can I afford legal help if I’ve just lost my income?
Many wrongful termination attorneys, including our firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs, and legal fees are only collected if your case is successful.
I was an independent contractor – can I still file for wrongful termination?
Traditional wrongful termination laws typically only apply to employees, not contractors. However, if you were misclassified as a contractor when you were effectively an employee, you have protections under California law.
What if I’m still employed but being pushed to resign? Does that count as wrongful termination?
Potentially. This is sometimes called “constructive discharge,” where working conditions become so intolerable that a reasonable person would feel forced to quit. If the underlying cause is illegal—such as discrimination or retaliation—you may still have a case.
How a Wrongful Termination Lawyer Can Help
An experienced Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyer gives you a knowledgeable advocate who understands the laws that apply to your case and how to enforce them.
At LFECR, your attorney will begin by carefully reviewing the details of your firing to determine whether it violated California wrongful termination laws or federal law.
This involves examining your employment history, any written agreements, company policies, and communications between you and your employer.
They will also look for patterns or timelines that suggest retaliation or discrimination. Once the facts are clear, your lawyer can identify every potential legal claim to give you the strongest possible case.
What You Should Do After Being Fired
The steps you take right after an unfair termination can greatly affect the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Document everything: Save all work-related emails, text messages, performance reviews, pay records, and any notes about workplace events that might be relevant.
- Don’t sign anything: Employers sometimes offer severance agreements that include waiving your right to sue. Never sign without having an attorney review it.
- Write down a timeline: Record important dates, including when you reported issues, when meetings happened, and when you were terminated.
- Stay professional: Avoid emotional or negative posts about your employer on social media. These can sometimes be used against you.
- Get legal advice quickly: An attorney can help you gather and protect evidence, meet filing deadlines, and develop a strategy.
Possible Outcomes If You Win Your Case
If your wrongful termination claim is successful, the law may allow you to recover:
- Back Pay: Wages and benefits you lost from the date of your firing until the date of judgment or settlement.
- Front Pay: Compensation for the income you will lose going forward if reinstatement isn’t possible.
- Reinstatement: Returning to your old position if that’s what you want and the court agrees.
- Emotional Distress Damages: Money for the stress, anxiety, and harm caused by the wrongful termination.
- Punitive Damages: Extra money awarded to punish an employer for extreme misconduct.
- Attorney’s Fees and Costs: Payment for the expenses involved in bringing your case.
The exact remedies depend on the facts of your case and the laws that apply.
Why Choose Our Wrongful Termination Law Firm
Choosing the right attorney can be the difference between a disappointing settlement and a successful outcome. At Lawyers for Employee & Consumer Rights, our firm has built a reputation for representing employees across Los Angeles and throughout California with skill, compassion, and determination.
We have a deep understanding of local and state employment laws. We also know the agencies that enforce them and the strategies that work against employers who try to sidestep their responsibilities.
When our employment lawyers take on your case, we focus on more than just the legal details—we focus on your goals, your career, and your peace of mind. Our approach combines thorough preparation with aggressive advocacy, giving you a powerful voice in negotiations and in the courtroom.
Sign Up for a Free Case Review
Call 844-563-0506 today
Our Attorneys Are Standing By