Losing your job is stressful and scary, especially when it happens for an unfair or illegal reason. If your employer fired you because of who you are, or because you stood up for your rights, they may have broken the law. A Burbank wrongful termination lawyer from Sparrow Law Group can help you figure out what steps to take next. An experienced Burbank employment law attorney can review your case, explain your options, and help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Us at Sparrow Law Group?
When your job, income, and reputation are on the line, you need a legal team that can help you fight back when your employer crosses the line.
- We treat you like family: We do not see you as just another case number. We listen to your story and give your case the personal care it deserves.
- Fierce advocates for workers: Our mission is to protect everyday people who have been wronged by powerful employers and companies.
- Experienced leadership: Our lawyers bring the knowledge and skill needed to guide workers through difficult employment issues.
What is Wrongful Termination in California?
California is an at-will employment state. This means an employer can usually fire a worker at any time, with or without a reason. However, an employer cannot fire someone for an illegal reason. Wrongful termination happens when a company lets an employee go in violation of federal or state law.
A firing based on discrimination may be illegal. This can include firing someone because of their race, color, age, disability, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or another protected trait. Wrongful termination can also happen when an employer fires someone in retaliation for reporting harassment, complaining about unpaid wages, reporting unsafe working conditions, requesting a reasonable accommodation, taking protected medical leave, or reporting illegal activity at work.
Sometimes, employers try to hide the real reason for firing someone. They may claim the employee had performance problems, violated a policy, or was let go because of restructuring. Our lawyers can review emails, texts, performance reviews, witness statements, timing, and other evidence to see whether the employer’s stated reason makes sense.
What Types of Recoverable Damages Can I Receive?
If you have a wrongful termination claim, you may be able to recover financial compensation. These damages are meant to help compensate for the harm caused by the illegal firing.
You may be able to seek lost wages, including the paychecks you missed after being fired. If you had to take a lower-paying job, damages may also include the difference between what you earned before and what you earn now. You may also be able to recover the value of lost benefits, such as health insurance, retirement contributions, bonuses, or other job-related benefits.
Sometimes, you may also seek compensation for emotional distress, including stress, anxiety, embarrassment, and the pressure caused by losing a job unfairly. In rare cases, punitive damages may be available to punish your employer for especially harmful or reckless conduct.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Termination Claim in California?
California has strict deadlines for employment claims. The exact deadline depends on why you were fired and which laws apply.
For many discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims, an employee must first file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). Workers generally have three years from the date of the wrongful act to file with the CRD. After receiving a right-to-sue letter, they usually have one year to file a lawsuit in court.
Call a Burbank Wrongful Termination Lawyer Today
If you believe you were fired for an illegal reason, Sparrow Law Group can review your case and explain your legal options. Schedule a free consultation with a Burbank wrongful termination lawyer today to discuss your situation.