Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Orange County, CA

Wrongful termination violates California and federal labor laws. Even in an at-will employment state like California, illegal firings carry severe consequences.

At MJB Law Group, our dedicated employment attorneys serve Orange County and Southern California, tirelessly protecting your employment rights and holding employers accountable. 

What is Wrongful Termination in California?

While California is an “at-will” employment state, wrongful termination still occurs when an employer violates state or federal laws. Protected by laws like the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), the California Labor Code, and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), employees have legal recourse if fired unjustly.

To prove wrongful termination, you must show that your employer breached these protections.

Types of Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination is a complex legal issue that can have serious consequences for both employers and employees. Here are some of the wrongful termination cases we’ve handled:

Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when an employee is fired because of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristic. This type of wrongful termination is prohibited by federal law and state and local anti-discrimination statutes. 

Employers may also be liable for wrongful termination if they allow a hostile work environment to exist, or if they fail to take appropriate action when an employee reports discrimination.

Retaliation

When you are terminated as a form of revenge for engaging in protected activity, such as reporting discrimination or harassment, filing a workers’ compensation claim, or participating in a union, it is known as retaliation. 

If you suspect that you were fired in retaliation, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a law firm to help you fight back and protect your rights.

Breach of Contract

Your employer cannot fire you if the termination violates the terms of your contract. 

This can include firing you before the end of a contract term, firing you without following the proper procedures outlined in the contract, or firing you without providing the required notice or compensation.

How Do I Prove Wrongful Termination?

In California, employers are often cautious about providing termination reasons to avoid lawsuits. This can leave employees feeling lost and unsure of their case.

To win your case, our attorneys at MJB Law Group will gather critical evidence, including but not limited to:

• Emails: This includes emails about your employment, such as communication with your employer or colleagues about work-related matters.
• Text Messages: If you communicate with your employer or colleagues via text message, we will want to keep those conversations.
• Performance Reviews: Copies of your performance reviews can demonstrate your value as an employee.
• Employment-Related Notices: Termination or layoff notices and official paperwork related to your employment, such as your offer letter, contract, or job description, can help us build your case.
• Employee Handbook: Our attorneys will need copies of your employer’s employee handbook, as it can provide valuable information about your rights and responsibilities as an employee.
• Employee Contracts: If you have signed an employment contract, we will need a copy for your records.
• Pay Stubs: Our attorneys may collect your pay stubs to help calculate lost wages in the event of a dispute with your employer.
• Communication with Coworkers: If you have had any conversations with coworkers about your termination or employment-related matters, we will want a record of those conversations.
• Witness Statement: Some of the best evidence can come from witnesses who observed you being subjected to illegal behavior. We will contact these witnesses and obtain critical statements from them to support your case.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Termination Lawsuit in California?

In California, the time limit for filing a wrongful termination lawsuit varies based on the reason for termination. However, typically, employees have between 2 and 3 years from the date of termination to file their lawsuit.

• Breach of Contract – 2 years
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) – 3 years
• California Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN Act) – 3 years
• Whistleblowing protections – 3 years

It’s crucial to act quickly if you think you have a valid case. If the statute of limitations expires, you won’t be able to file a lawsuit at all to collect the compensation you deserve.

Don’t Let Injustice Define Your Future–Contact Us Today

At MJB Law Group, we want you to know that you don’t have to face wrongful termination alone. Let’s work together to find a solution that works for you. 

Contact our wrongful termination lawyers today to get started with a FREE case evaluation. Together, we can protect your rights and hold your employer accountable.

Explore Our Other Legal Services

Along with wrongful termination, our team specializes in:

• FMLA Violations
• Unequal Pay Claims
• Misclassification Cases
• Sexual Harassment Claims
• Meal and Break Violations
• Wage and Hour Disputes
• Whistleblower Cases

We proudly serve clients in Orange County and Southern California. Reach out today to learn more about how we can assist you with your employment law needs.