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Fired and feel it was illegal? This guide by a wrongful termination attorney los angeles explains California at-will limits, common illegal firing reasons (discrimination, retaliation, breach of contract, protected leave), potential damages, how lawyers build cases, what to do now, and how to pick the right firm—start with a free consultation to protect your rights.
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Key Takeaways
At-will employment does not permit illegal firings based on discrimination, retaliation, breach of contract, or protected leave violations.
Timing and documentation—such as close-in-time events, emails, and witness statements—are often critical to proving wrongful termination.
Damages available can include back pay, front pay, emotional distress, punitive damages, lost benefits, and attorney’s fees when applicable.
Act quickly: statutes of limitation and evidence preservation make early action and legal consultation important.
Many firms offer free consultations and contingency fees, lowering financial barriers to pursuing a claim.
Table of Contents
What Is Wrongful Termination in California?
Common Illegal Reasons for Firing Someone
What a Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Attorney Does for You
What Damages and Compensation Can You Recover?
How to Know if You Have a Case
Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now
Why Timing Matters: The Power of “Close in Time” Evidence
The Legal Process: From Consultation to Resolution
Compensation Examples: What Makes Up Your Claim
How to Choose the Right Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Los Angeles
Leading Los Angeles Firms That Handle Wrongful Termination
Client Experience: What It Feels Like to Work With the Right Firm
What If You Are “At-Will”? Do You Still Have Rights?
How a Lawyer Proves Your Case
How Long Does a Wrongful Termination Case Take?
What If the Employer Offers Severance?
Real-World Scenarios That May Be Wrongful Termination
How Wrongful Termination Ties to Other Workplace Rights
What You Can Do to Support Your Case Even After Termination
Understanding Your Potential Outcomes
Costs and Fees: Removing Barriers to Justice
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Next Step
What Is Wrongful Termination in California?
If you were fired and something feels wrong, you are not alone. Many workers in Los Angeles get pushed out for illegal reasons. A wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles can listen to your story, explain your rights, and fight to make things right. Learn more here.
If you are searching for help right now, you may have typed “wrongful termination attorney los angeles.” This guide is for you. View resource
In this article, we will explain what “wrongful termination” means in California, the most common illegal reasons for firing someone, what kinds of money damages you can recover, and how a lawyer can build your case. We will also share how to pick the right lawyer and what to do today to protect your claim. We included the source links to trusted law firm pages so you can read more and verify information for yourself.
Common Illegal Reasons for Firing Someone
In California, most employees work “at will.” That means an employer can fire you at any time, for any reason, or for no reason at all—but not for an unlawful reason. Learn more here.
If your firing breaks the law or public policy, it may be wrongful termination. Learn more here View resource. Learn more here
Wrongful termination happens when an employer fires you for reasons that the law forbids. These reasons include discrimination, retaliation, breach of contract, or punishment for using protected rights like family or medical leave. Learn more here View resource.
Put simply: at-will does not mean “anything goes.” The law still protects you from illegal firings. A wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles can help you understand how these rules apply to your case. Learn more here View resource View resource Learn more here.
1) Discrimination
It is illegal to fire someone because of who they are or a protected trait. Protected traits include disability, age, race, ethnicity, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, and medical condition. Learn more here View resource.
Examples:
You are let go after disclosing a disability or asking for a reasonable accommodation. View resource. Learn more here
Your boss makes biased remarks about your age or gender, and soon after you are terminated. Learn more here.
2) Retaliation
It is illegal to fire someone because they spoke up about something protected. Retaliation often follows when a worker reports unlawful conduct or stands up for their rights. Learn more here View resource. Learn more here
Protected activities include:
Reporting illegal conduct, wage theft, or safety violations. View resource.
Reporting harassment or discrimination. Learn more here.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim after an injury. View resource.
3) Breach of Contract
Even in an at-will state, some employees have written or oral agreements that limit firing. If your employer promised job security, specific procedures before termination, or other terms, and then ignored them, that can be wrongful termination. Learn more here.
4) Violation of Protected Leave Rights
You cannot be fired for taking or asking for protected leave. This includes leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), California Family Rights Act (CFRA), and military leave. Learn more here View resource. Learn more here
Examples:
You take CFRA leave to care for a family member and lose your job when you return. View resource.
You request FMLA leave for your own serious health condition and are promptly terminated. Learn more here.
You take leave for military service and face termination because of it. Learn more here.
What a Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Attorney Does for You
A wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles focuses on helping people who believe they were fired illegally. They guide you through each step, from the first call to settlement or trial. Learn more here View resource View resource View resource Learn more here.
Here’s what you can expect:
Free consultation: Many Los Angeles wrongful termination attorneys offer free case reviews to assess your claim and explain your options. View resource View resource Learn more here. Learn more here
Contingency fee: Many firms work on contingency, so you pay no fees upfront. The lawyer gets paid only if they win or settle your case. View resource View resource Learn more here
Investigation: Your lawyer will gather documents, witness statements, and records. They look closely at the timing of your firing compared to your protected activity or leave. View resource View resource
Building evidence: They help collect emails, texts, performance reviews, and policy documents. They may compare how you were treated to how others were treated. View resource View resource
Negotiation and litigation: Attorneys try to resolve your case through demand letters or talks. If needed, they file with agencies or in court and guide you through the process. View resource View resource
What Damages and Compensation Can You Recover?
If your case succeeds, you may be able to recover money and other relief. Every case is different, but here are common types of damages in wrongful termination cases. View resource
Back pay: Lost wages from the date of termination to the present. View resource
Front pay: Future lost wages if getting your old job back is not realistic. View resource
Emotional distress: Money for mental and emotional harm, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or shame caused by the firing. View resource
Punitive damages: Extra money to punish serious misconduct and deter others, in cases involving malicious or reckless conduct as allowed by law. View resource
Attorney’s fees: In some claims, the employer may be ordered to pay your legal fees if you win. View resource
Lost benefits: The value of health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan losses caused by the termination. View resource
Wrongful interference with contract: Damages if your employer’s actions disrupted your other contractual relationships, when the law allows it. View resource
How to Know if You Have a Case
It can be hard to tell if a firing broke the law. A few warning signs include:
Sudden discipline or write-ups after you complained about something protected, like harassment, safety problems, or unpaid wages. View resource
You are fired right after you request or return from protected leave, like FMLA or CFRA. View resource
Your boss makes biased remarks about your race, gender, age, disability, or other trait, and you are later let go. View resource Learn more here
Your employer did not follow your contract or promised process before firing you. Learn more here
Even if your reason seems “small,” talk to an attorney. The timing, documents, and pattern of behavior matter a lot. View resource View resource. Learn more here
Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now
If you think your firing was illegal, take these steps. Acting early can protect your case and help your lawyer help you.
Write down what happened: Note names, dates, times, locations, and what was said. Include the timing of your firing compared to any complaint, leave, or request for accommodation. View resource
Save proof: Keep emails, texts, voicemails, performance reviews, schedules, pay stubs, and policy manuals. Save proof you reported issues like harassment, wage violations, safety concerns, or discrimination. View resource
List witnesses: Co-workers or others who saw what happened can make a big difference. View resource. Learn more here
Do not sign away your rights: If the company gives you a severance agreement, do not sign until a lawyer reviews it. You may be waiving your right to bring a claim. View resource
Call a lawyer for a free case review: Many Los Angeles employment lawyers offer free consultations and can explain your options fast. View resource Learn more here
Act quickly: Employment claims have deadlines (called statutes of limitation), so waiting can limit your rights. An attorney can help you understand your timeline. View resource. Learn more here
Why Timing Matters: The Power of “Close in Time” Evidence
In many wrongful termination cases, the timing of events is key. For example, if you reported harassment and two weeks later you were fired, that close timing can be strong evidence of retaliation. A skilled attorney will map out a timeline, compare it to your records, and look for patterns and inconsistencies. View resource View resource.
The Legal Process: From Consultation to Resolution
Here is a plain-language overview of how a claim may move forward:
Free consultation and case evaluation: You talk with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles. You share your story. They ask questions. They explain how the law works in your situation and discuss next steps. View resource View resource Learn more here
Contingency agreement: If the firm takes your case, many will use a contingency fee. This means you pay nothing up front. The lawyer only gets paid if they win or settle. View resource View resource Learn more here
Investigation and evidence building: Your lawyer will gather documents and talk to witnesses. They may request records from your employer and compare your performance history to the stated reason for your firing. View resource View resource
Demand and negotiation: Many cases resolve through a demand letter and negotiations. Your attorney will push for fair compensation based on your lost wages, benefits, and other damages. View resource
Filing a lawsuit or agency complaint: If needed, your attorney can file in court and guide you through each step. They handle motions, discovery, mediation, and—if necessary—trial. View resource View resource
Compensation Examples: What Makes Up Your Claim
When your lawyer calculates your damages, they will look at both money you lost and harm you suffered. Here is a closer look at what may be included. View resource
Back pay: Your lost wages from the day of termination to today.
Lost benefits: The value of health insurance, COBRA costs, lost PTO, and retirement matching you missed.
Front pay: Future wages if you cannot go back to your job and need time to find and grow in a new role.
Emotional distress: The pain and suffering from losing your job unfairly—stress, anxiety, sleep loss, shame, and impact on your relationships.
Punitive damages: In some cases, the law allows extra damages to punish especially harmful behavior and deter others.
Attorney’s fees: In certain claims, the employer may have to cover your legal fees if you win.
Wrongful interference with contract: If the employer’s actions harmed your other contracts or relationships, damages may be available.
How to Choose the Right Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Los Angeles
Not all lawyers are the same. Here is how to find the right fit:
Look for experience and results: Choose a lawyer with strong experience in employment law and a track record with wrongful termination cases. Learn more here
Make sure they handle cases like yours: For example, discrimination, retaliation, protected leave, contracts, or wage issues. View resource
Ask about fees: Many offer contingency fees and free consultations. Ask what costs you might face and when. View resource View resource Learn more here
Check client service: Many firms stress client support, accessibility, and fast responses. You deserve an attorney who listens and answers your questions. View resource Learn more here
Talk to more than one firm: Free consults let you compare approach, communication style, and trust. Learn more here
Leading Los Angeles Firms That Handle Wrongful Termination
Los Angeles has many respected employment law firms. The following firms focus on wrongful termination and related workplace claims. This list is for information, not an endorsement. Review each site and pick the team that fits your needs.
Broslavsky & Weinman LLP
Services: Wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, and other unlawful employment practices. View resource
Fees: Often contingency-based. Learn more here
Notes: Deep focus on protecting workers’ rights in Los Angeles. Learn more here
King & Siegel LLP
Services: Wrongful termination, discrimination, wage and hour violations, workplace retaliation. View resource
Fees: Offers free consultations and contingency representation. Learn more here
Notes: Guides clients through investigation, evidence building, negotiation, and litigation. Learn more here
HBK Lawyers
Services: Wrongful termination, CFRA/FMLA leave violations, retaliation, protected activities. View resource
Fees: Free consultations available. Learn more here
Notes: Emphasizes documenting timing, communications, and related events. Learn more here
Custis Law, P.C.
Services: Wrongful termination, contract violations, discrimination claims. View resource
Fees: Free consultations and contingency options. Learn more here
Notes: Over 20 years’ experience and strong client advocacy. Learn more here
Yazdani & Malki LLP (YMS LLP)
Services: Wrongful termination litigation and a full range of employment law claims. View resource
Fees: Free consultation and contingency arrangements in many cases. Learn more here
Notes: Explains damages like back pay, front pay, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Learn more here
Client Experience: What It Feels Like to Work With the Right Firm
When you are out of work, you may feel scared and unsure. A good lawyer should make things easier, not harder. Many Los Angeles firms stress support, accessibility, and prompt responses. They know your case is personal and urgent. View resource Learn more here. Attorneys are often praised for being understanding, thorough, and effective in complex cases. Learn more here
What If You Are “At-Will”? Do You Still Have Rights?
Yes. At-will does not allow illegal firing. Employers still must follow anti-discrimination laws, cannot retaliate for protected activity, and cannot punish you for using protected leave. They must follow contracts and public policy. Learn more here View resource.
If your firing involved bias, punishment for speaking up, or punishment for taking leave, at-will does not protect the employer. Learn more here View resource.
How a Lawyer Proves Your Case
Your attorney will build your case using facts, documents, and the law. Here are common tools and strategies:
Timeline analysis: Comparing when you engaged in protected activity (like reporting harassment) to when you were fired. View resource View resource
Comparator evidence: Looking at how other employees were treated in similar situations. View resource
Policy and contract review: Checking if the employer followed its own rules and any contract terms. Learn more here
Performance history: Comparing your past evaluations to the employer’s stated reason for termination. View resource
Witness testimony: Co-workers, supervisors, or HR staff who can confirm what happened. View resource
Protected leave records: Proof of FMLA/CFRA requests and approvals, and the timing of your return. View resource
How Long Does a Wrongful Termination Case Take?
The timeline varies. Some cases resolve quickly with a demand. Others take months or more through litigation. Acting early helps your lawyer gather evidence while it is fresh and meet any deadlines. View resource. Many firms offer free consultations and can give you a clearer timeline for your specific case. View resource Learn more here
What If the Employer Offers Severance?
Do not sign anything until you talk to a lawyer. Many agreements ask you to release your claims in exchange for payment. You need to know what you are giving up and whether the offer is fair. View resource. A free consultation can help you weigh your options. View resource Learn more here
Real-World Scenarios That May Be Wrongful Termination
You told HR that your manager touched you at work. Two weeks later, you were fired for “poor attitude.” This could be retaliation for reporting harassment. View resource Learn more here
You asked for medical leave under CFRA to care for your child. When you returned, your job was “eliminated.” This could violate protected leave rights. View resource Learn more here
Your boss called you “too old for the role” and replaced you with a younger worker after pushing you out. That could be age discrimination. View resource Learn more here
Your offer letter promised you could only be fired for cause, with a chance to improve. You were fired without warning. That may be a breach of contract. Learn more here
How Wrongful Termination Ties to Other Workplace Rights
Many wrongful termination cases arise after an employee stands up for other rights. A single case can involve more than one violation. View resource
Discrimination or harassment: Illegal firing because of a protected trait or for reporting bias. View resource Learn more here
Retaliation: Firing for speaking up about wage theft, safety, or illegal acts. View resource
Wage and hour issues: Termination after you complain about unpaid wages, overtime, or breaks. View resource
Protected leave misuse: Firing because you used FMLA or CFRA, or took military leave. View resource Learn more here
What You Can Do to Support Your Case Even After Termination
Keep job search records: Save applications, interviews, and offers. This helps show your efforts to reduce your losses and can support front pay and back pay claims. View resource
Continue medical care: If you have stress or anxiety from the firing, see a doctor or therapist. Keep records, as they can support emotional distress damages. View resource
Keep communication short and calm: If you must talk to your former employer, keep messages factual. Avoid angry posts on social media.
Share everything with your lawyer: Give your attorney all documents and updates. Even small details can matter. View resource
Understanding Your Potential Outcomes
Every case is unique. Possible outcomes include:
Settlement: Many cases settle with payment for wages, benefits, and distress. Some settlements include neutral references or policy changes. View resource
Trial verdict: In some cases, a court or jury awards damages. This can include back pay, front pay, emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees when allowed. View resource
Non-monetary relief: Sometimes you may seek reinstatement, training, or policy changes. Your lawyer will guide you on what makes sense.
Costs and Fees: Removing Barriers to Justice
Money worries should not stop you from calling a lawyer. Many wrongful termination attorneys in Los Angeles offer:
Free initial consultations to review your claim. View resource View resource Learn more here
Contingency fee arrangements so you pay nothing upfront and only pay if you win. View resource View resource Learn more here
In some cases, the law may allow recovery of attorney’s fees from the employer if you are successful. View resource
Frequently Asked Questions
Does at-will mean I can be fired for no reason?
Yes, but not for an illegal reason like discrimination, retaliation, or using protected leave. Learn more here
I never reported in writing. Can I still have a case?
Maybe. Verbal complaints and witness accounts also matter. Timing and other proof can support retaliation claims. View resource View resource
My boss said performance was the reason, but my reviews were good. What now?
That may be a pretext. Your lawyer can compare your paper trail with the employer’s story. View resource
Can I still get help if I signed a handbook saying I am at-will?
Yes. Handbooks do not allow illegal firing. Anti-discrimination, retaliation, and leave laws still apply. Learn more here View resource
What if I was an independent contractor?
Misclassification is common. A lawyer can review your work facts to see if you were really an employee and what rights you have. View resource
How fast should I act?
Act now. Employment claims have strict deadlines. A lawyer can help you protect your rights and file on time. View resource
Your Next Step
If you believe your firing was illegal, you do not have to carry this alone. Help is available. Speak with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles for a free, confidential case review today. Many top firms will only get paid if they win for you, so there is no upfront cost to start. View resource View resource Learn more here
Your job, your wages, your reputation, and your peace of mind matter. The law is here to protect you. And the right lawyer can help you use it.
Sources and Further Reading
HBK Lawyers: Wrongful Termination, Protected Activities, Documentation, FMLA/CFRA Leave, Retaliation
YMS LLP (Yazdani & Malki): Damages and Compensation and Free Consultation/Contingency
Remember: This guide is for general information. It is not legal advice. Your case is unique. For help tailored to your situation, contact a wrongful termination attorney los angeles now. View resource Learn more here View resource
