Bakersfield Wrongful Termination Lawyer
If you have ever suddenly been called into the boss’s office and told to clean out your desk, you know the sinking feeling made up of embarrassment and worry. In California, though most employees are hired under the at-will legislation, there are still circumstances in which termination is illegal.
Under at-will law, the employer is not required to provide a reason for ending an individual’s employment. If the employee can prove they are a victim of illegal discrimination, they may want to consider filing a lawsuit with a Bakersfield wrongful termination lawyer. You could receive a settlement that includes lost wages and restitution for pain and suffering. Our employment lawyers are ready to review your case.
Discrimination Examples of Wrongful Termination
When an employee gets fired for a reason other than inadequate job performance, unacceptable behavior, or lack of work or restructuring, it may mean the supervisor or employer discriminated against the employee. Some of the types of discrimination found in wrongful termination cases include the following:
- Age discrimination
- An FMLA dispute
- Gender identity
- Political views
- Racial discrimination
- Religious views
- Retaliation for a variety of reasons:
- Not accepting unwanted sexual advances or reporting sexual harassment
- Refusing to participate in illegal behavior
- Filing a worker’s compensation claim
- Wage disputes about overtime or hourly wages
- Whistleblowing to the media or an agency regarding violations
- Privacy law violations
- Sexual orientation.
If you suspect wrongful termination for any of the reasons above, you should seek the advice of a Bakersfield attorney.
Employee Rights
As an employee in California, you have the right to privacy, the right to inspect your payroll records, and the right to minimum wage, breaks, and overtime pay as mandated by the state.
State lawmakers passed legislation to protect employees from losing their jobs because of illegitimate or discriminatory firing practices. Even though California is a hiring and firing-at-will state, employees who feel their firing resulted due to discrimination may take legal action. However, proving discrimination is complicated, so hiring experienced legal counsel is advised.
Steps to Take After Wrongful Termination
Suddenly losing a job can come as a shock and be devastating. The next steps toward taking legal action need to take place as soon as possible:
- Gather all documentation related to your termination, such as emails and memos
- Contact one of our experienced wrongful termination attorneys in Bakersfield
- Consult with your attorney on how to proceed with the wrongful termination case.
- Stay in touch with your attorney regarding the next steps and any further information or documentation needed.
Following the steps above will help expedite your case and increase your chances of proper restitution.
Who is Liable in a Wrongful Termination Case?
The company or employer is liable in a wrongful termination case along with the supervisor or employee who did the firing. At times, another employee or peer may share the liability if they gave false information to management to get you fired. It is vital to document incidents and keep all relevant materials to help establish liability.
Our Bakersfield Wrongful Termination Attorneys are Here to Help
The experienced legal team at Levin and Nalbandvan, LLP is committed to helping people who have unfairly lost their employment. We could assist you with complicated paperwork and other details so you can get the settlement you deserve and continue with your life.
If you think you may be a victim of a wrongful firing, we encourage you to contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Bakersfield wrongful termination lawyer will work diligently to help you heal and get your life back on track.