Termination for any or no reason is often acceptable under the at-will doctrine for those who do not have a written or implied contract. However, when an employee in California has an employment agreement, the employer has less discretion in the matter. Chron.com explains that the contract typically spells out the process that must be undertaken or the activities that may be grounds for ending the contract before its completion date. These include the following:
According to the State of California Department of Industrial Relations, there are many laws that address specific situations where an employer may not legally terminate an employee. For example, a worker has the right to serve jury duty and is generally protected when he or she needs to appear in court for other reasons, as well.
Employees who have been the victim of violence, or who have a child who is a victim, may take leave from work in order to ensure that health and safety are restored. Sick leave may be used when an employee’s immediate family member requires care during an illness, as well. If the employee is an emergency response volunteer, such as a firefighter, health care provider, or reserve peace officer, or if the employee is a member of a State-sponsored disaster medical response organization, the employer cannot fire him or her for taking time off from work to serve in these capacities.
Your job is more than just a source of income. It is a major part of your lifestyle. If you have been the victim of wrongful termination, wrongful demotion or any kind of discriminatory business practices, it is time to take action and contact a Ventura employment law attorney that can help. Attorney Matthew A. Kaufman and the team at The Kaufman Law Firm bring experience and a vast arsenal of legal resources to help clients recover the money they deserve.
To learn more, contact our Westlake Village law office today and schedule an initial evaluation to discuss your case.