Wrongful Termination: Know Your Rights as an Employee in Los Angeles

As an employee in Los Angeles, you must know your rights, particularly regarding wrongful termination. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer unlawfully fires an employee, often violating state or federal laws. Understanding your rights in such situations is crucial for protecting yourself and seeking appropriate recourse. In this article, they delve into the rights of employees in Los Angeles regarding wrongful termination and the role of a wrongful termination lawyer in safeguarding those rights.

Employment at Will vs. Wrongful Termination

In California, employment is generally considered “at will,” meaning that the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause. However, this does not mean employers have carte blanche to terminate employees for any reason. Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for reasons violating state or federal laws, public policy, or employment contracts.

Protected Categories

Employees in Los Angeles are protected from wrongful termination based on certain protected categories, including:

• Race: Employers cannot terminate employees based on their race or ethnicity.
• Gender: Discrimination based on gender, including pregnancy-related discrimination, is illegal.
• Age: Terminating employees based on age is unlawful, with protections for workers over 40.
• Disability: Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities and cannot terminate them based on their disability.
• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited.
• Religion: Employers cannot terminate employees due to their religious beliefs or practices.

Retaliation Protection

Employees in Los Angeles are protected from retaliation for engaging in certain protected activities, such as:

• Reporting Illegal Activity: Whistleblower protection laws shield employees who report illegal activities or unsafe working conditions from retaliation.
• Filing Complaints: Employees who file complaints with government agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), are protected from retaliation.
• Exercising Legal Rights: Employees can engage in protected activities, such as taking family or medical leave, serving on a jury, or participating in military service, without fear of retaliation.

Role of a Wrongful Termination Lawyer

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, seeking the advice of a wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles at Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers is essential. A skilled attorney can:

• Assess Your Case: A lawyer can evaluate the circumstances of your termination to determine whether it constitutes wrongful termination under California law.
• Explain Your Rights: Your attorney can explain your rights as an employee and advise you on the best course of action.
• Gather Evidence: Your lawyer can help gather evidence to support your claim, such as witness testimony, employment records, and documentation of discriminatory actions.
• Negotiate on Your Behalf: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a settlement with your former employer to resolve the dispute without going to court.
• Litigate if Necessary: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can represent you in court and advocate for your rights during litigation.

Get a Legal Guidance From Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers

As an employee in Los Angeles, understanding your rights regarding wrongful termination is crucial for protecting yourself from unlawful actions by employers. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, don’t hesitate to seek the advice of a qualified Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyer at Rager & Yoon – Employment Lawyers who can help you navigate the complexities of employment law and pursue justice on your behalf. By knowing your rights and enlisting the assistance of legal professionals, you can stand up against wrongful termination and ensure that your rights are upheld in the workplace.