Experienced Employment Law Attorney in Los Angeles, CA

What Counts as Wrongful Termination Under State Law

California is an at-will employment state, which means your employer can fire you for almost any reason or no reason at all, but the law carves out significant exceptions that protect workers from being terminated for illegal reasons. Your employer cannot fire you because of your race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. They also cannot fire you in retaliation for reporting illegal activity, filing a workers' compensation claim, taking protected family or medical leave, or refusing to participate in unlawful conduct. Workplace law also prohibits terminations that violate public policy. This means your employer cannot fire you for doing something the law encourages or for refusing to do something the law forbids. If you had an employment contract that limited the circumstances under which you could be terminated, firing you outside those terms could constitute a breach of contract. An employment attorney in Los Angeles can evaluate the circumstances of your termination to determine whether it falls into one of these protected categories. Many wrongful termination cases involve mixed motives. The employer might claim one reason for the firing, while the real motivation was actually discriminatory or retaliatory. These cases require careful analysis of the timeline, the documentation, and the context surrounding your dismissal.

Recognizing Workplace Harassment and Discrimination

Harassment and discrimination take many forms, and not all of them are obvious. The law prohibits employers from treating workers differently based on protected characteristics such as race, sex, age, disability, national origin, and religion. These protections cover hiring, promotions, pay, job assignments, discipline, and termination. Harassment becomes illegal when it creates a hostile work environment or when submitting to the conduct becomes a condition of keeping your job. A single incident can qualify as harassment if it is severe enough, but more often these cases involve a pattern of behavior that makes the workplace intimidating or abusive. Many workers hesitate to come forward because they fear retaliation or believe they won't be taken seriously. California law prohibits retaliation against employees who report harassment or discrimination, participate in investigations, or oppose unlawful practices. Your employer has an obligation to prevent harassment and to take prompt corrective action when problems arise. When management ignores complaints, brushes off reported behavior, or retaliates against the person who spoke up, the company can be held responsible. Employment lawyers in Los Angeles approach these sensitive matters with discretion and focus on protecting your career while seeking accountability from your employer. You should know that the time limits for filing harassment and discrimination claims are strict, so taking action quickly preserves your legal options.

Building a Strong Case With Proper Documentation

Evidence makes the difference between a claim that succeeds and one that falls apart. Start gathering documentation as soon as you suspect something is wrong at work. Save copies of emails, text messages, performance reviews, schedules, pay stubs, and any written policies or handbooks your employer has handed out. When incidents occur, write down what happened right away while the details are fresh in your mind. Include the dates, times, locations, who was there, what was said, and how it affected you. Store these records somewhere your employer can't reach, like a personal email account or your home computer. Testimony from witnesses can strengthen your case, so write down the names of coworkers who saw the problematic behavior. If you report problems to human resources or management, try to do it in writing and save copies of your complaints along with any responses you receive. A labor and employment lawyer will use this evidence to build a compelling narrative that demonstrates exactly how your rights were violated. Many cases are won or lost based on documentation, because memories fade and witnesses become unavailable over time. Your employer will certainly have their own records, and you need evidence that tells your side of the story. An employment law firm in Los Angeles can tell you what types of documentation will carry the most weight in your specific situation.

Protect Your Rights With My Lawyer Manwel

If you believe your employer has violated your rights, don't wait to take action. California law imposes strict deadlines on employment claims, and delay can cost you valuable evidence and legal options. At My Lawyer Manwel, our team of employment lawyers in Los Angeles fights aggressively for workers who have been mistreated on the job. We understand the power imbalance between employees and employers, and we work to level the playing field. Contact our employment law firm in Los Angeles today for a consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you pursue the justice you deserve. As a dedicated workplace law practice and trusted employment attorney in Los Angeles, we have the experience and determination to hold employers accountable when they break the law.