California law protects employees from being fired for unlawful reasons, including retaliation, discrimination, and the exercise of workplace rights. When a termination violates these protections, the employee may pursue compensation through a wrongful termination claim. Call (310) 499-0140 or message YMS LLP online to arrange a free consultation.

Why Choose Us

Significant experience handling complex termination disputes with a strong history of favorable outcomes.
Direct, consistent communication that keeps clients involved and informed at every stage.
Skilled legal representation that combines detailed case preparation with focused client support.

Our Case Results

$930,000 Whistleblower Settlement for a physician terminated after reporting patient safety issues.
$475,000 Whistleblower Settlement for an employee dismissed after raising concerns about financial misconduct.
$180,000 Retaliation Settlement for a worker fired after challenging unlawful wage practices.

These and our other case results reflect our dedication to holding employers accountable.

California Wrongful Termination Protections

California law recognizes that employers may not terminate employees for reasons that violate public policy or statutory protections. Wrongful termination claims frequently arise under the following laws:

Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)

Prohibits termination based on protected characteristics such as race, disability, gender, age, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

California Labor Code section 1102.5

Protects employees who report unlawful conduct, participate in investigations, or refuse to engage in illegal activity.

California Labor Code section 98.6

Prevents retaliation against employees who assert wage rights or complain about Labor Code violations.

California Family Rights Act (CFRA)

Prohibits termination for requesting or taking protected family or medical leave.

These statutes cover outright termination as well as constructive discharge situations, where an employer creates conditions so intolerable that a reasonable employee would feel compelled to resign.

Signs of Wrongful Termination

Unlawful terminations often follow recognizable patterns. Employees in Pasadena commonly report circumstances such as:

A shift in treatment or increased scrutiny shortly after reporting harassment, discrimination, or safety concerns.
Negative evaluations that conflict with prior performance reviews or long-term work history.
Sudden reductions in duties, demotions, or changes in work schedule leading up to termination.
Termination shortly after requesting medical leave, disability accommodations, or pregnancy-related adjustments.
Statements from supervisors suggesting bias or frustration with the employee’s protected activity.
Termination that follows a complaint about wage theft, unsafe conditions, or unlawful company practices.

Keeping detailed notes, saving relevant communications, and preserving performance records can help establish your case.

Steps to Take After an Unlawful Firing

Employees should take immediate action to protect their rights. Save all documents related to the termination, including written notices, performance reviews, and email communications. Request a copy of your personnel file, which California law entitles you to obtain. Avoid signing any severance agreement without legal advice, because these agreements often contain waivers that restrict your ability to pursue a claim. Consult a Los Angeles employment attorney as soon as possible to ensure that critical evidence is preserved.

How a Pasadena Wrongful Termination Attorney Supports Your Case

A wrongful termination attorney evaluates the circumstances leading to your firing and builds a case supported by California law. They typically will:

Examine internal correspondence, work records, and termination-related documentation.
Identify contradictions in the employer’s stated reasons for the termination.
Speak with witnesses and collecting additional workplace evidence.
File administrative complaints with the California Civil Rights Department or other agencies when necessary.
Negotiate for compensation that reflects lost earnings, harm to reputation, and emotional distress.
Litigate the matter when employers refuse to resolve the case through negotiation.

Successful claims may result in back pay, front pay, reinstatement, emotional distress compensation, attorney’s fees, and punitive damages in egregious cases.

Contact YMS LLP Today

If you believe your employer wrongfully terminated you, call (310) 499-0140 or message us online to schedule a free consultation.