Long Beach Wrongful Termination Lawyer
Navigating Workplace Injustice in Southern California
At Andrea Cook & Associates, we recognize the challenges when facing wrongful termination. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals in Long Beach navigate the complexities of employment law and seek justice for unjust employment termination. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, it is crucial to understand your rights and explore your legal options.
Call Andrea Cook & Associates today at (562) 203-1123 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our wrongful termination attorney in Long Beach!
What is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination unfolds when an employer dismisses an employee, infringing their legal entitlements. In California, employment operates under the at-will doctrine, granting employers the authority to terminate employees for any reason, excluding illegal ones. Wrongful termination manifests in various scenarios, encompassing:
- Discrimination: If an employee faces termination based on attributes like race, gender, age, religion, or disability, it unequivocally qualifies as wrongful termination.
- Retaliation: Employers are prohibited from terminating employees who engage in legally protected activities such as whistleblowing, lodging a complaint, or participating in an official investigation.
- Breach of Contract: In instances where an employment contract is in force, any termination contravening the stipulated terms of the contract may be deemed wrongful.
- Violation of Public Policy: Termination grounded in reasons contrary to public policy, such as refusing participation in illegal activities, is unequivocally categorized as wrongful.
Examples of Wrongful Termination
To better understand what constitutes wrongful termination, consider the following scenarios:
- Discrimination: An employer terminates an employee based on their age, even though they are fully capable of performing their duties.
- Retaliation: An employee reports workplace harassment, and shortly afterward, they are terminated in apparent retaliation for making the complaint.
- Breach of Contract: An employee is terminated without cause before a fixed-term employment contract expires.
- Violation of Public Policy: An employee is fired for refusing to participate in illegal or against public policy activities.
What Proof Do I Need in a Wrongful Termination Case?
Building a solid case for wrongful termination requires collecting and presenting compelling evidence. While each case is unique, potential evidence may include:
- Documentation: Keep records of any relevant communications, such as emails, texts, or memos, that support your claim.
- Witness Statements: Statements from colleagues who observed the events leading to termination can provide valuable support.
- Performance Reviews: Positive performance evaluations can counter claims of poor performance as a reason for termination.
- Employment Contracts: If you have an employment contract, it is essential to review and gather evidence related to the terms of your employment.
- Company Policies: Familiarize yourself with company policies and procedures to demonstrate any violations by your employer.
