Wrongful Termination: What California Employees Need to Know

Four people seated at a wooden table, taking notes and discussing. Natural light, notebooks, and pens visible, suggesting a meeting.

Losing your job is never easy, but if you believe you were fired unfairly, you may have legal options. California is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can terminate employees at any time. However, there are exceptions—if your firing violates state or federal law, you may have been wrongfully terminated.

At Haulk & Herrera LLP, our experienced employment attorneys, Jose Herrera and Matthew Haulk, are dedicated to protecting the rights of California workers. If you suspect wrongful termination, here’s what you need to know.

What Qualifies as Wrongful Termination in California?

1. Discrimination

Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal law, it is illegal to fire an employee based on:

Race or ethnicity
Gender or sexual orientation
Age (over 40)
Disability (physical or mental)
Pregnancy or medical conditions
Religion
National origin

2. Retaliation for Reporting Misconduct

You cannot be fired for reporting workplace violations, such as:

Sexual harassment
Unsafe working conditions (OSHA violations)
Wage theft or unpaid overtime
Discrimination

3. Violation of Public Policy

If your firing goes against established public policy—such as refusing to engage in illegal activity—it may be considered wrongful termination.

4. Breach of Employment Contract

If you have an employment contract stating specific termination conditions, and your employer violates those terms, you may have a strong case.

What to Do If You’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated

If you suspect wrongful termination, take these steps to protect your rights:

Document Everything – Save emails, texts, performance reviews, and any termination-related communication.
Request a Written Explanation – Ask your employer for a reason for your termination.
Gather Witness Statements – If coworkers saw or heard discriminatory actions, their statements can support your claim.
Consult with an Attorney – Employment laws are complex. Speaking with a skilled wrongful termination lawyer can help you determine your next steps.

How Haulk & Herrera LLP Can Help

At Haulk & Herrera LLP, we fight for employees who have been wrongfully terminated. Attorneys Jose Herrera and Matthew Haulk have successfully helped employees recover lost wages, negotiate settlements, and even get their jobs back.

We will: