Costa Mesa Wrongful Termination Lawyer

Costa Mesa Wrongful Termination Attorney

The experience of losing your job can be devastating when the termination violates legal employment standards. Although California operates under an at-will employment system, employers are not permitted to dismiss workers based on discriminatory, retaliatory, or other unlawful grounds. A Costa Mesa wrongful termination lawyer from Engels-Janzen is ready to fight for employees who have faced wrongful discharge.

Our firm represents clients in cases related to discrimination, whistleblower retaliation, breach of contract incidents, and public policy violations. Your workplace should always protect your rights and respect them as you perform your duties.

What Counts as Wrongful Termination in California?

Employees in California have protection against termination because employers are required to adhere to state and federal laws. Employers violate state and federal laws when they terminate employees because of discriminatory practices based on race, gender, age, or disability, or when they retaliate against workers who report harassment or unsafe working conditions.

This category of termination covers dismissals that break employment contract terms or contravene public policy standards. California Labor Code § 1102.5 provides protection to whistleblowers against retaliatory actions. To determine if your firing was wrongful, you may need to undergo a legal evaluation that examines your situation, along with the dismissal reason and any supporting evidence of retaliation patterns.

Common Wrongful Termination Scenarios in Costa Mesa Workplaces

The workforce in Costa Mesa spans multiple sectors, including healthcare and education, technology, hospitality services, and government operations. Whether you work for the Auto Club of Southern California, Fairview Developmental Center, or Experian, California law provides protection for you.

Employees can face wrongful termination when they report workplace discrimination, refuse to participate in illegal activities, or exercise their rights to medical or family leave. Employees’ rights may be violated when employers terminate staff following either workers’ compensation claims or wage disputes.

Employees in Costa Mesa can pursue legal action against employers who fail to adhere to state and federal employment regulations. The initial step in safeguarding your livelihood begins with understanding your California Labor Code rights.

Statistics on Wrongful Termination and Retaliation Claims

Nationwide, wrongful termination claims most frequently involve workplace retaliation. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), retaliation accounted for more than 51% of all charges filed in 2022.

The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) manages multiple employment complaint types, including wrongful termination and retaliation, which represent major claims processed by the department. Employees who experience negative employment consequences, such as termination or demotion, after reporting workplace discrimination or harassment may create claims of workplace retaliation.

Retaliation claims resulting from wage violations normally fall under the Labor Commissioner’s Office, but are transferred to the CRD when they include discrimination issues. The large number of retaliation complaints indicates the need to understand your rights and obtain legal representation if you lose your job after reporting workplace misconduct. When filing a wrongful termination claim based on retaliation, filing requirements must include proper documentation and precise timing.

How to Build a Strong Wrongful Termination Claim

To pursue a wrongful termination claim in California successfully, you need more than legal knowledge because you must also provide strong documentation and strategically present facts. Preserve all related termination communications, including emails, text messages, and written warnings, from the beginning. Collect performance evaluations and HR complaints together with witness statements that might help your case.

The link between your firing and a protected activity, such as reporting harassment or requesting disability accommodations, may become essential evidence. Initiating a complaint with the Civil Rights Department serves as the primary action. They can be reached at 800-884-1684. A skilled employment lawyer can evaluate your claim while managing deadlines and serving as your representative in both negotiations and legal proceedings.

FAQs

What Qualifies as Wrongful Termination in California?

Employers commit wrongful termination when they fire employees due to illegal grounds, including discrimination or retaliation, breach of contract, or public policy violation. California statutes provide protection for workers who report workplace harassment or unsafe working conditions and for those who file wage claims or take protected leave. In at-will employment states, you still hold legal protections if your employer fires you for reasons that break state or federal laws.

What Does “At-Will Employment” Mean in California?

Employers in California have the right to fire employees at any moment, regardless of reason, because it is an at-will employment state. Employers cannot terminate employees for unlawful motives, such as discrimination or retaliation against someone who takes medical leave. While at-will employment allows job termination without cause, state and federal legal protections remain intact, so wrongful termination claims can still be valid in at-will states when firing breaches legal rights.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Termination Claim?

The filing deadline varies based on the specific nature of the claim. Employees who bring forward wrongful termination cases that include discrimination or retaliation claims need to submit their paperwork to the Civil Rights Department within a three-year period. Contract breach allegations and whistleblower retaliation cases usually follow alternative filing timelines. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible protects your legal rights while ensuring you don’t overlook important deadlines.

Can I Sue My Employer for Emotional Distress After Being Fired?

In some cases, you may be able to pursue a legal claim for emotional distress after being fired. Individuals who experienced wrongful termination through harassment or discriminatory retaliation resulting in emotional harm may seek damages for their emotional distress. The legal system requires evidence showing employer intent or extreme misconduct, making it essential to document your experience and its outcome.

Contact a Costa Mesa Wrongful Termination Lawyer

Wrongful termination in Costa Mesa demands experienced legal support, whether your job was located in the South Coast Metro area, near Triangle Square, or in the city’s expanding tech and healthcare sectors. California law provides robust protections, but navigating the legal system involves managing complex deadlines and procedures. The Costa Mesa wrongful termination lawyers at Engels-Janzen guide employees through their claims, combining professional experience with a compassionate approach.

Our firm understands local employment practices while actively protecting your legal rights, professional standing, and future opportunities. Reach out to Engels-Janzen immediately to secure a confidential consultation and begin holding your employer accountable.