At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we frequently encounter cases involving lesser-known types of wrongful termination in Los Angeles. While many employees are familiar with terminations based on discrimination or retaliation, other forms of illegal dismissal often go unrecognized.
Lesser-Known Forms of Wrongful Termination in Los Angeles
At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of lesser-known wrongful termination scenarios that employees should understand. Each of these situations may provide grounds for legal action under California law:
Constructive Discharge
When employers make working conditions so intolerable that employees are forced to resign. This includes systematic harassment or unreasonable changes to working conditions.
Public Policy Violations
Termination for refusing to engage in illegal activities, reporting violations, or exercising legal rights protected by public policy.
Implied Contract Violations
Firing that breaches informal agreements created through consistent company practices, verbal promises, or long-term employment history.
Good Faith Breaches
Terminating employees to avoid paying commissions, bonuses, or retirement benefits they’ve earned through their work.
Probationary Termination
Firing new employees during probation periods for discriminatory reasons or in violation of basic employment rights.
Immigration-Based Retaliation
Terminating employees for updating immigration documents or responding to government verification requests.
Political Activity Discrimination
Taking adverse action against employees for their political views or activities conducted outside work hours.
Social Media Activity
Firing employees for discussing working conditions or wages on social media platforms.
Genetic Information Discrimination
Termination decisions based on genetic testing results or family medical history.
Association Discrimination
Firing employees due to their relationship with someone in a protected class.
Voting Leave Violations
Terminating employees for taking protected time off to vote.
Domestic Violence Accommodation
Firing employees for addressing domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking situations.
Consumer Credit Report
Using credit reports as grounds for termination outside legally permitted circumstances.
School Activities Leave
Terminating parents or guardians for attending children’s school activities or emergencies.
Language Discrimination
Firing employees for speaking their native language during breaks or non-essential communications.
Health and Safety Complaints
Retaliatory termination for reporting unsafe working conditions.
Equal Pay Discussions
Firing employees for discussing or inquiring about wage information.
Personal Appearance
Termination based on appearance when related to religious beliefs or gender identity.
Military Spouse Leave
Firing employees for taking protected leave during military spouse deployment.
Informal Grievance Expression
Terminating employees for raising concerns about working conditions through internal channels.
Privacy Rights Violation
Firing employees for refusing to provide social media passwords or personal device access.
Protected Medical Leave
Termination for taking legally protected medical leave or requesting reasonable accommodations.
Volunteer Activities
Firing employees for engaging in emergency rescue operations or volunteer firefighting duties.
Jury Duty Participation
Terminating employees for serving on jury duty or responding to court summons.
Wage Garnishment
Firing employees because their wages are being garnished for a single debt.
Crime Victim Leave
Terminating employees for taking time off to appear in court as a crime victim.
Lawful Off-Duty Conduct
Firing employees for legal activities conducted outside of work hours.
The attorneys at Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C. understand the complexities of these various wrongful termination scenarios. We thoroughly investigate each case to identify all potential legal violations and develop comprehensive strategies to protect our clients’ rights.
If you believe you’ve experienced any of these forms of wrongful termination, timing is crucial. California law imposes strict deadlines for filing claims. Contact our office to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.
How a Wrongful Termination Lawyer Can Help
At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we provide comprehensive legal support for employees facing wrongful termination in Los Angeles. Here’s how our attorneys can assist with your case:
- Initial Case Review: We conduct a thorough analysis of your termination circumstances and determine if California employment laws were violated.
- Evidence Collection: Our team gathers crucial documentation including emails, performance reviews, witness statements, and company policies to build a strong case.
- Legal Strategy Development: We create a customized approach based on specific details of your termination and relevant California employment laws.
- Administrative Filings: Our attorneys handle all required paperwork with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) and other relevant agencies.
- Damages Assessment: We calculate the full scope of your losses, including lost wages, benefits, emotional distress, and potential punitive damages.
- Settlement Negotiations: Our experienced attorneys negotiate with employers and their legal teams to secure fair compensation without court intervention.
- Court Representation: When settlement isn’t possible, we provide aggressive representation in court proceedings and manage all aspects of litigation.
- Timeline Management: We ensure all legal deadlines are met, including the filing of administrative complaints and court documents within statutory periods.
- Documentation Review: Our team examines employment contracts, handbooks, and company policies to identify potential violations.
- Rights Protection: We safeguard your interests throughout the process and prevent employers from taking retaliatory actions.
- Communication Management: We handle all interactions with your former employer, their attorneys, and insurance companies.
- Future Employment Protection: We help structure settlements to minimize impact on future employment opportunities and provide guidance on addressing the termination in job searches.
Our wrongful termination attorneys at Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C. understand both state and federal employment laws and how they apply to your situation. Contact us today to discuss how we can help protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
How To Sue For Wrongful Termination in Los Angeles
At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we guide clients through the process of filing wrongful termination lawsuits in Los Angeles. Understanding these key steps will help you protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Document Everything: Preserve all emails, texts, performance reviews, disciplinary actions, and communications related to your termination. These documents form the foundation of your case.
- File Administrative Complaint: Submit a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) within one year of termination. This step is mandatory before filing a lawsuit in California.
- Obtain Right to Sue: Request a “Right to Sue” notice from the DFEH after filing your complaint. This document allows you to proceed with a civil lawsuit.
- Calculate Damages: Document all financial losses, including lost wages, benefits, emotional distress, and job search expenses. Accurate documentation strengthens your negotiating position.
- Meet Filing Deadlines: Understand that most wrongful termination claims must be filed within two to three years of termination. Missing these deadlines can bar your claim.
- Gather Witness Information: Collect contact information for coworkers who witnessed discrimination, harassment, or other relevant events. Their testimony can substantiate your claims.
- Preserve Digital Evidence: Save copies of all work emails, internal messages, and digital communications. Create backups before losing access to work accounts.
- Request Personnel File: Submit a written request for your complete personnel file and payroll records. California law requires employers to provide these within 30 days.
- Track Job Search Efforts: Keep detailed records of all job applications, interviews, and related expenses. This documentation supports claims for ongoing damages.
- Document Health Impact: Record any medical or mental health treatment related to the termination. These records can support claims for emotional distress damages.
- Avoid Social Media Posts: Refrain from discussing your termination or legal case on social media. Public statements can be used against your claim.
- Maintain Professional Conduct: Continue professional behavior in all interactions with former employer and coworkers. Inappropriate conduct can damage your case.
At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we handle these complex legal procedures while you focus on moving forward. Contact us to discuss your wrongful termination case and learn how we can help protect your rights under California law.
Protect Your Employment Rights
Were you wrongfully terminated? Don’t let your employer violate your rights. At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., our Los Angeles employment attorneys are ready to evaluate your case.