You’ve been excelling, meeting every deadline, and even getting praise from your manager. Then, without warning, you’re handed a termination letter. Or maybe you reported unsafe working conditions, only to find yourself on the receiving end of a pink slip. If you’ve been unfairly let go, you may be wondering – was this wrongful termination?
At Goyette, Ruano & Thompson, Inc., we are committed to standing up for individuals who have been unfairly fired, helping them seek justice and compensation.
Understanding Wrongful Termination in California
In California, wrongful termination happens when an employer fires an employee for illegal reasons. This might involve discrimination, retaliation, or breach of an employment agreement. Let’s look at some scenarios to help you spot wrongful termination:
Discrimination
You’ve been a loyal employee for several years, but after revealing a pregnancy, your employer begins reducing your hours and responsibilities. Suddenly, you’re terminated without cause. If your firing was based on your pregnancy or another protected characteristic—like race, gender, or disability—you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim.
Retaliation
You reported wage theft to your HR department. A few weeks later, you’re let go under the pretext of “poor performance,” despite consistent positive evaluations. If your termination was a response to exercising your legal rights (like whistleblowing), this could be a clear case of retaliation.
Breach of Contract
You were offered a two-year employment contract, but after just six months, your employer fires you without cause. If your contract or company policies were violated during the termination, you may have a valid claim for wrongful termination.
Steps to Take if You Were Wrongfully Terminated
If you suspect you were fired for illegal reasons, follow these steps to protect your rights:
Document Everything
Keep detailed notes on events leading up to your termination. Save emails, text messages, performance reviews, and witness statements that might support your case. For example, a log of discriminatory comments or sudden negative evaluations, after you filed a complaint, can strengthen your claim.
Consult with a California Employment Law Attorney
An experienced lawyer can help you determine whether your termination was wrongful and provide advice on your next steps. Early legal consultation can make all the difference in building a strong case. If necessary, your attorney may advise you to pursue a lawsuit. For instance, if the EEOC investigation supports your claims of discrimination or retaliation, your lawyer can use this evidence to strengthen your case in court.
File a Complaint with Government Agencies
If attempts to resolve the issue directly with your employer fail, you can file a complaint with agencies such as the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). They investigate workplace violations and help enforce employment laws.
How Goyette, Ruano & Thompson Can Help
- Thorough Investigation: We dive into the details of your case, gathering evidence to build a solid foundation for your claim.
- Negotiation and Representation: We negotiate with your former employer or their legal team to secure a fair settlement. If negotiations fail, we are ready to represent you in court.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional toll of wrongful termination and provide personalized legal strategies to help you move forward.
Get What You Deserve for Your Wrongful Termination, Contact Us Today
Don’t let wrongful termination rob you of your livelihood and peace of mind. If you believe you were unfairly fired, reach out to Goyette, Ruano & Thompson, Inc. today. Our experienced California employment law attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process and will make sure your rights are protected. Schedule a consultation now to explore your legal options and get the justice you deserve.