How To Know When You Have Been Wrongfully Terminated

Losing your job can feel quite unnerving, and when you are terminated without just cause, it can feel infuriating. It is understandable to feel that you were wrongfully terminated, but do you have a valid claim for wrongful termination that will stand up in court?

California is an “at-will” state giving employers significant leeway in deciding when to terminate an employee. It is essential that you understand the definition of wrongful termination to determine if you should pursue further action against the company.

What Qualifies As Wrongful Termination?

1. You have a legal agreement between you and your employer that protects you from being fired without good reason.
2. You spoke up in regards to issues at work such as discrimination, sexual harassment, unlawful practices, etc.
3. Filing for worker’s compensation or telling your employer you have been injured on the job.
4. Speaking out against practices of the company that are violating laws.
5. Utilizing your rights that are protected under the Fair Employment and Housing Act.
6. Taking leave for approved personal reasons and then being terminated within less than one month of leaving or three months of returning to work.

These are just a few situations that may help you initiate a case against a company for wrongful termination. However, if you are not familiar with the laws in the state of California, then you will want to reach out to an educated lawyer who can help you understand your case more clearly.

It is important to remember that employers have a right to terminate employees who are not working out, but the reasons they fire an employee must remain ethical versus retaliating against an employee for behaving within their rights by law.

Steps To Take If You Feel You Have Been Wrongfully Terminated

1. Stay positive, and do not react to negative instincts that may arise in regard to your employer.
2. Familiarize yourself with your employment contract if you have one.
3. Ask why you have been terminated.
4. Seek professional help from a lawyer that specializes in employees’ rights.

Keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations regarding wrongful termination cases. The sooner you act upon the matter, the better your chances are of seeing a case opened concerning your termination.

What Can You Be Awarded If You Win Your Wrongful Termination Case?

1. Wages and benefits lost due to the wrongful termination.
2. Payment for pain and suffering as well as emotional distress brought on by the loss of your job.
3. Back Pay.
4. Attorney fees incurred from your case for wrongful termination.
5. Punitive damages based on the employer’s behavior.

Do not let fear or lack of money keep you from filing a wrongful termination lawsuit. Instead, opt to reach out to a knowledgeable lawyer who can help ensure that your case is litigated fairly in the court of law. It is beneficial for employees who have been wrongfully terminated to speak up and hold unethical employers accountable and helps to ensure that everyone has a fair and safe working environment. We are of the business in helping the employees. Talk to a Los Angeles wrongful termination attorney to learn more about your legal rights. Matthew A. Kaufman can help. Contact us for more information by clicking here or calling  310-981-3404.