Many workers in California have experienced the loss of a job at some point in their lives. There are many reasons this can happen, but it is often a distressing experience, especially if you had no idea that it was going to happen or if you were dismissed for illegal reasons. All of a sudden you need to think about finding new employment while also worrying about whether you and your family have enough money to survive in the meantime.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help ensure that you and your loved ones are protected financially during this difficult time. If you had health care coverage in the job you have been dismissed from, you may be entitled to a continuance of that for as much as 18 months or more in certain circumstances. It is also worth considering filing for unemployment compensation.
While it can be difficult to find new employment right away, you could also benefit from part-time work. This means you will still have some money coming in while you look for something more suited to your needs. Also, as this article on employee rights explains, you should also be entitled to a final paycheck. If your employer has failed to provide this, you might choose to take legal action.
Finally, it is also worth considering whether you were unfairly dismissed. If your employer fired you on discriminatory grounds or in retaliation for something, this may count as wrongful termination. If so, you could be entitled to compensation and you might even be able to be reinstated in your position. Wrongful termination attorney can advise you about your options and may be able to assist you with your claim.