Representing Employees In Wrongful Termination Claims
If you have been fired for exaggerated or baseless performance criticisms, your employer may be discriminating against you. Employers that discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, disability, race or ethnicity, often shield their discriminatory motivations by manufacturing or exaggerating performance deficiencies. You may also have a claim if your employer fired you in violation of your contract.
At Khatib Law, APC, I can help. I’m Mazen Khatib, an experienced employment attorney. I represent employees throughout Ontario, California, and surrounding areas who have been fired, laid off or let go for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. You can count on me to be your voice and advocate.
Are You A Victim Of Wrongful Termination?
You can be a victim of wrongful termination without realizing it. Common grounds for wrongful termination claims include:
- Age discrimination
- Race discrimination
- Disability discrimination
- Religious discrimination
- Retaliation against you for taking legally protected actions
- Whistleblower retaliation
- Wage and hour disputes or unpaid overtime
- Pregnancy and maternity leave issues
- Sexual harassment or a hostile work environment
- Violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Breaches of an oral and written contract made between you and your employer
Additionally, you may have a claim against your employer if they fired you for political activity.
How Do You Handle Wrongful Termination?
I offer wrongful termination legal advice for those who need it. I will educate you on your rights and potential courses of action so you can decide how to move forward.
If you have experienced discrimination or harassment that HR has failed to properly address, it’s time to get a lawyer. I can guide you, talk to your employer and work hard to secure the best possible result. I can also represent you in a lawsuit against your employer for wrongful termination, if appropriate.
Concerns And Misconceptions About Wrongful Termination
Losing a job is stressful and often introduces concerns about whether the termination was legal. One of the most common misconceptions is that all terminations must be rationally justified. Many also believe that fairness is a legal requirement in termination decisions, but that is not the case.
The at-will employment doctrine in California allows employers to terminate workers for almost any reason, as long as it does not violate anti-discrimination, anti-retaliation, or anti-harassment laws. This often leads to misunderstandings about what constitutes wrongful termination.
Employees often assume that being let go for what seems like a minor infraction, is inherently unlawful. However, the law does not require fairness in employer decisions unless discrimination, retaliation or contractual violations are involved.
Understanding the distinction between an unfair termination and an illegal termination is crucial. Consulting an employment attorney can help to clarify whether your termination was legally wrongful under California law.
Wrongful Termination FAQs
Here are the answers to frequently asked questions I address about wrongful termination in California.
What is considered wrongful termination under employment law?
It occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of employment laws or contractual obligations. This includes terminations based on discrimination (such as race, gender, disability or age), retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting workplace violations, or breaches of an employment agreement.
How can I determine if my termination was illegal or discriminatory?
Making an accurate determination typically requires a thorough review of the circumstances. If an employer provided inconsistent reasons for the dismissal or it came after reporting workplace misconduct, there may be grounds for a wrongful termination claim. Employees should document relevant communications, performance reviews, and any evidence of discrimination or retaliation to strengthen their case.
What steps should I take if I believe I have been wrongfully terminated?
If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, it is wise to act quickly. Consulting an employment law attorney is the first step, as California has legal deadlines for filing claims. Gathering documentation, reviewing employment contracts and identifying potential witnesses can also be helpful. The sooner you take action after your termination, the better your chances of protecting your rights and obtaining a satisfactory legal remedy.
The Experience And Resources To Fight For Your Rights
I will work hard to protect your rights and obtain a favorable outcome for you, whether that means job reinstatement, back pay, punitive damages, and other compensation for your wrongful termination. Take advantage of a free and confidential case evaluation with an experienced employment lawyer: call me at 909-729-3171.