Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Lawyer
Working for Justice When Workers Are Fired for No Good Reason
Losing your job is never easy, but when your termination is unfair or illegal, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming. Being the victim of a wrongful termination does not just interrupt your paycheck, it affects your reputation, self-esteem, and your family’s stability. Many employees in Los Angeles County feel lost after an unjust termination, unsure of their legal rights or what to do next.
At The Work Justice Firm, our team of experienced Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyers stands ready to protect your rights. As a trusted employment law firm for wrongful termination, we have earned our reputation by providing compassionate representation and aggressive advocacy. Our goal is not only to secure compensation but to restore your dignity and hold your employer accountable under California labor codes.
Our experienced wrongful termination attorney team knows that employers often disguise illegal reasons for termination as “restructuring” or “poor performance.” When termination occurs under suspicious circumstances, our firm investigates every detail to uncover the truth. We have represented victims of wrongful termination in Los Angeles and across multiple industries, from healthcare to entertainment, and we fight to promote fair employment for every worker.
What You Need to Know About Wrongful Termination in California
California is an “at-will employment” state, meaning employers generally have the right to terminate employees for almost any reason, or for no reason at all. However, this right is not absolute. Termination may be considered wrongful if it violates state or federal law, breaches an employment contract, or goes against public policy. Employers are prohibited from firing workers in ways that violate fair employment and housing codes or equal employment protections.
For employees in Los Angeles, this means that the reasons leading up to your termination matter more than the label your employer puts on it. Internal complaints, medical leave, requests for accommodation, or reports to government agencies are all events that can trigger legal protections under California law. When we review a termination, we look at the timing of events, who made the decision, and whether similar employees were treated differently in other Los Angeles workplaces to uncover patterns that point to an unlawful motive.
Termination Cannot Violate:
- State or federal codes that prohibit discrimination or retaliation
- Public policy protections, such as refusing to commit an unlawful act
- Employment contracts, written or implied, that promise fair treatment
- Company policies or employee handbooks that ensure equal opportunity
If your termination was unjust, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim. An experienced Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyer can guide you through every step and help ensure your legal rights are preserved. Our attorneys in Los Angeles analyze every aspect of your case under the California Labor Code and federal law to determine if your termination was illegal.
What Is a Wrongful Termination?
A wrongful termination occurs when your employer fires you in violation of the law or your employment agreement. Every wrongful termination case involves careful investigation and legal strategy. Examples of wrongful termination in Los Angeles include:
- Retaliation for whistleblowing: Reporting unethical or illegal practices, such as wage theft or safety violations, and being fired shortly after.
- Termination based on discrimination: Being dismissed due to race, age, gender, disability, or religion, which violates the Fair Employment and Housing Act.
- Refusing to engage in unlawful conduct: An employee who refuses to commit fraud or break safety codes and is terminated as a result.
- Termination following protected leave: When an employee returns from leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and is told their job no longer exists.
- Whistleblower retaliation: When employees report misconduct and face termination as punishment.
These examples demonstrate how termination may be considered wrongful when it violates public policy or employee protection laws. At The Work Justice Firm, our experienced Los Angeles wrongful termination attorney team examines the facts to determine whether your firing constitutes wrongful termination.
Hear from Those We've Helped
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"A clear, knowledgeable approach to my situation"I was overwhelmed with anxiety and uncertainty about the process, especially the thought of having to testify.- S
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"I would highly recommend The Work Justice Firm"The Work Justice Firm was Professional and Respectful,- Jackie W.
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"Quiero expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento a the Work Justice Firm"Desde el inicio mostraron profesionalismo- Alicia F.
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"They have been very helpful the whole time"I 100% recommend them- Luis A.
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"Can't be grateful enough for all your work!"Unconditional support and expertise.Thank you so much for supporting me throughout my case and taking the time to explain and clarify all the questions I asked.- Elisanda K.
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"Muy agradecida con todos en la firma que me ayudaron en todo momento durante este proceso tan difícil para mí!"Muy agradecida con todos en la firma que me ayudaron en todo momento durante este proceso tan difícil para mí!- Alicia F.
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"The Work Justice Firm always helped me to get the best settlement possible!"I’m happy to share my experience with The Work Justice Firm. They always helped me to get the best settlement possible. Thank you again!!!- Marcos M.
California Laws Protecting Employees from Wrongful Termination
California employment law provides some of the strongest protections for employees. If you believe you were wrongfully dismissed, several codes could apply to your wrongful termination case in Los Angeles:
- Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): Protects against termination based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, or disability.
- California Labor Code Section 1102.5: Prevents retaliation against employees who report violations of state or federal laws.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Protect employees who take medical or family leave.
- Whistleblower protections: Safeguard workers who expose unsafe or illegal activities.
- Public policy protections: Prohibit terminations that go against society’s interests, such as refusing to engage in discrimination or harassment.
Our law firm handles employment law cases involving FEHA, the Labor Code, and other employment law statutes. We file claims for constructive termination, retaliation, and breach of employment contract on behalf of employees in Los Angeles and throughout California.
Many workers are unsure which of these laws applies to their situation, especially if their employer operates multiple locations in Los Angeles County or is part of a national company. We walk employees through how these protections interact, including when you must first file with a government agency, when you can go directly to court, and how overlapping state and federal rights can increase your options. By mapping your experience onto the correct statute, we help you avoid missed deadlines and choose the strategy that best protects your ability to seek compensation.
The Issues With Proving Wrongful Termination
Proving wrongful termination is rarely simple. Employers often attempt to justify termination with vague or false reasons such as “downsizing,” “poor attitude,” or “budget constraints.” Our trial lawyers understand how to expose these false narratives by gathering critical evidence that supports your wrongful termination lawsuit.
We use evidence such as:
- Internal emails and memos revealing discriminatory or retaliatory intent
- Performance reviews that contradict the employer’s stated reason for termination
- Witness testimony from coworkers who observed mistreatment in Los Angeles workplaces
- Comparisons showing how other employees were treated differently
With our experience in California employment law, we build strong cases that demonstrate termination in violation of state and federal law. Our employment attorneys work to show that your termination was not a legitimate business decision but a violation of your legal rights.
In Los Angeles, many employers also rely on detailed HR policies and signed acknowledgments to defend their decisions, so it is critical to understand how your personnel file will be used against you. We help clients obtain and review their records, identify inconsistencies in progressive discipline, and pinpoint moments where policies were enforced unevenly. By comparing how managers treated similar situations with other employees in the same department or location, we can highlight patterns that support your claim and counter the company’s attempt to paint the termination as routine.
What to Do If You Were Fired for No Good Reason
If you were terminated without cause or due to illegal motives, you may be entitled to compensation. Remedies in a wrongful termination claim can include:
- Reinstatement to your prior position or a similar role
- Back pay for lost wages and benefits
- Front pay if reinstatement is not possible
- Compensation for emotional distress and harm to reputation
- Attorney’s fees and legal costs
- Punitive damages if the employer acted with malice
Our Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyers pursue every wrongful termination claim with precision and commitment. We help clients throughout Los Angeles recover financially and emotionally. Each wrongful termination case is unique, and we work to help victims of wrongful termination seek justice.
Workers who have just been fired often do not realize there are steps they can take in the days and weeks after termination that strengthen their potential case. We encourage employees in Los Angeles to carefully save pay stubs, performance reviews, text messages, and any written communication about their firing so we can later evaluate the full picture. Keeping a timeline of key events, such as complaints to HR or schedule changes, also helps us understand how your employer’s story evolved over time and supports a more accurate calculation of your lost income and benefits.
How Wrongful Termination Cases Work in Los Angeles
Understanding the path a case can take helps you decide whether to move forward and what to expect along the way. In Los Angeles, most wrongful termination matters start with an internal consultation where we review your documents, listen to your story, and discuss which laws may apply. From there, we often prepare and file a charge with the California Civil Rights Department or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if your claim involves discrimination or retaliation, preserving your rights while agencies investigate or issue a right-to-sue notice.
Once any required administrative step is complete, the next phase may involve sending a detailed demand letter to your former employer, outlining the facts, legal violations, and the damages you have suffered. Many cases resolve through negotiations or mediation in the Los Angeles area, including sessions held near the Stanley Mosk Courthouse or other local venues. If a fair resolution is not possible, we are prepared to file a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court and guide you through discovery, depositions, and, if needed, trial so you can make informed decisions at each stage.
Why You Should Get a Lawyer for Wrongful Termination in California
While it is possible to file a claim with the EEOC or California Civil Rights Department on your own, working with an experienced wrongful termination attorney significantly increases your chances of success. Employers often rely on corporate lawyers to defend against wrongful termination claims. You need an employment attorney who understands both California labor and federal law to balance the scales.
A Skilled Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Lawyer Will:
- File paperwork correctly and meet all deadlines
- Handle hearings, mediations, and agency investigations
- Negotiate settlements and pursue fair compensation
- Take your case to court if necessary
The Work Justice Firm has represented clients throughout California, including employees in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the greater Los Angeles area. Our law firm combines knowledge, passion, and trial experience to pursue results.
For many employees, the idea of taking legal action against a former employer is intimidating, especially when that employer is a large company with significant resources. We guide clients step by step through the process, from the first consultation to any appearance in a Los Angeles courthouse, so you always know what to expect. By explaining the likely stages of a claim and the documents we will need from you, we reduce uncertainty and allow you to focus on moving forward while we handle the legal strategy.
Why Choose The Work Justice Firm
You deserve a law firm that prioritizes your case and your future. The Work Justice Firm stands out among Los Angeles employment attorneys because we focus exclusively on representing employees.
Here’s Why Workers Trust Our Experienced Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Team:
- Employee-only representation: We never represent employers; our loyalty lies solely with workers.
- Proven record: Millions recovered for clients throughout Los Angeles and beyond.
- Local insight: As a Los Angeles employment law firm, we understand the industries and workplace dynamics unique to this city.
- Personalized care: Every client receives direct communication from their attorney and consistent updates.
- Accessibility: We provide bilingual services and offer a free consultation; you pay nothing unless we win.
Our employment lawyers are known for their results-driven approach and dedication to fair treatment in Los Angeles workplaces. When you need an employment attorney who truly cares, The Work Justice Firm is your trusted advocate.
If you’re facing discrimination, harassment, or any workplace injustice, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation—no fees unless we win your case. We’re committed to defending your rights and achieving the justice you deserve.