As many workers in California are aware, many employee rights are protected by law. Although it is possible to be fired for many fairly arbitrary reasons, there are several areas that are considered illegal to use as a reason to dismiss someone. If an employer terminates your position for any of these reasons, even if they cite a different reason, but you can prove otherwise, you may be able to make a wrongful termination claim.
Some of the illegal reasons include matters of discrimination, pregnancy, and refusal to commit an illegal act. Furthermore, if an employee is fired as a result of reporting an issue such as harassment or a safety violation, this may be classed as retaliatory discharge and is also against the law.
One matter that arises from time to time, that some employees are unaware is protected by wrongful termination laws, is the participation in polygraphs or lie detector tests. There are many reasons you might feel reluctant to take such a test, but there is a chance that your employer might threaten you with the loss of your job if you do not comply. However, as this article on unfair dismissal explains, if this happens, your employee rights have been breached and you may be entitled to compensation.
It can be hard to know where to turn when your employer appears to be against you. Fortunately, an attorney may be able to provide valuable advice and support. He or she can explain the process of making a claim and may be able to assist you with pursuing the justice and remuneration you deserve.