Wrongful Termination & Retaliation

Wrongful termination involves the unlawful firing of an employee, often in violation of state and federal employment laws, contractual agreements, or public policy. This can encompass various situations, including discrimination, retaliation for reporting misconduct, breach of contract, or firing without cause.

 

Wrongfully terminated individuals have legal grounds to seek remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, front pay, and compensation for emotional distress. Pursuing a wrongful termination claim aims to hold employers accountable for unjust actions, protecting employees' rights and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. Legal representation is vital to assess the validity of such claims and guide individuals through the legal process.

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Retaliation in the workplace involves adverse actions taken by an employer against an employee in response to their protected activities, such as reporting unlawful conduct, discrimination, or harassment. It's illegal under various employment laws, including Title VII and the Whistleblower Protection Act.

 

Retaliation can manifest as wrongful termination, demotion, harassment, or other forms of mistreatment designed to deter employees from asserting their rights. Individuals who experience retaliation may have legal recourse, including seeking compensation and remedies. Legal counsel is essential for understanding and pursuing retaliation claims, which aim to protect employees who exercise their rights and foster fair and ethical workplaces.

 

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California provides strong protections for employees against wrongful termination and retaliation. Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employees are protected from termination based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. The California Labor Code also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report safety violations, file workers' compensation claims, or engage in protected whistleblower activities. If you were fired shortly after reporting misconduct or exercising a legal right, you may have a strong retaliation claim. California's statute of limitations for wrongful termination claims is generally two to three years depending on the legal theory, so it is important to act quickly to preserve your rights.

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Employees who successfully pursue a wrongful termination or retaliation claim may be entitled to significant compensation. Recoverable damages can include lost wages and benefits from the date of termination, front pay for future lost earnings, emotional distress damages, and in cases involving malice or oppression, punitive damages designed to punish the employer. In some cases, reinstatement to your prior position may also be available. An experienced employment attorney can evaluate the strength of your claim, gather evidence including performance reviews, communications, and witness statements, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf or take your case to trial if necessary.

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KL Law Firm P.C. proudly represents wrongful termination and retaliation victims throughout the Encino area and across the greater San Fernando Valley, including Sherman Oaks, Tarzana, Woodland Hills, and Reseda. Attorney Kathy Lerner has extensive experience advocating for employees whose rights have been violated by their employers. Our firm handles employment law cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated or retaliated against, contact KL Law Firm P.C. today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.