- May 27, 2021
Did you know the number of wrongful termination charges was lower in 2020 than in the past 20 years? This decrease can likely be linked to the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic. Though some areas were more stable than others, California and New York changed overnight.
Due to stricter legislation, the cost to business owners across industries was high, resulting in high unemployment. Unfortunately, wrongful termination in California didn’t drop.
It’s more important than ever to make sure you’re legally covered if you’ve faced unfair termination. Read this guide for everything you need to know about filing wrongful termination charges.
What You Need to Know About Wrongful Termination in California
Any wrongful termination case starts with the violation of your legal rights as an employee. If an employer terminates your contract based on discrimination, exercising your rights, or violating your contract—you likely have a valid claim.
As an at-will state, California still has legitimate termination laws. The terms of at-will employment mean you can be fired at any time without cause, with or without advance notice. But if the terms for your termination are unjust, you can file a claim.
Federal and state laws prevent employers from firing employees for the wrong reasons. If you can prove an employer fired you for unlawful reasons, you have a case.
Who’s Protected From Discrimination in Wrongful Termination Laws
The state and federal discrimination laws mentioned above apply to many kinds of people. Claims of discrimination fall under several different acts, including:
- California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): protects you when you assert your rights
- Age and Discrimination Act (ADEA)
- Equal Pay Act
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- California Family Rights Act: protects paternity leave
- Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Family Act: protects paid sick leave
These laws protect many persons based on age, gender, race, sex, disability, religion, nationality, and politics. Sex includes pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation, too. And age applies to those 40 and older, based on federal statutes.
California’s discrimination laws are more inclusive, so the likelihood of wrongful termination in California is higher. Here’s a list of protected groups for your reference:
- Race, color
- Ancestry, national origin
- Religion, creed
- Age (over 40)
- Disability, mental and physical
- Sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions)
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity, gender expression
- Medical condition
- Genetic information
- Marital status
- Military and veteran status
These protections include and extend federal protections. Because of California’s social and economic populations, you must understand what laws protect you. Make sure to consult a lawyer if you’re uncertain of your rights.
Trust Ravan Law As Your Wrongful Termination Lawyer
With everything you need to know about wrongful termination in California, you’re ready to move forward with charges. Your rights and representation are important to us at Ravan Law.
As experts in wrongful termination, personal injury, and hostile work environments, you can trust our expertise. Book a free consultation today to get the representation you deserve.
