Wrongful Termination Attorneys in Pasadena

How Does an Attorney Evaluate Wrongful Termination Cases?

When a worker is terminated, the most critical facts for a wrongful termination attorney in Pasadena to know are: 

1. The reason the employer provided for terminating the employee and 
2. If the employee suspects a different reason for why they were terminated. Understanding both state regulations and local employment practices is essential. 

For instance, if an employer fires an employee for a reason unrelated to their job performance or behavior, this could be considered wrongful termination. The employer might disguise the unlawful reason and claim it is based on the employee’s job performance, even though the employee knows the employer had an ulterior motive. Thorough evaluation involves collecting all relevant documentation, including emails, performance evaluations, and any verbal communications that might suggest wrongful reasons for termination.

Our Wrongful Termination Services for California Workers

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated, an attorney from our Pasadena team can provide several services to seek the compensation and justice you deserve. Our approach includes analyzing your employment history to build the strongest possible case that highlights all potential infringements of your employment rights. We leverage our dual-partner collaboration system, ensuring every angle of your case receives thorough evaluation and strategic input.

Here’s how a lawyer can help you:

Determine If You Have Grounds for a Claim

Employees may be discharged for reasons that seem unreasonable but are entirely legal. We can assess your situation and determine if the reason you were fired was unlawful. We can proceed with the legal process if you have grounds for a claim. Our attorneys will work closely with you to ensure that all nuances of your workplace experience are fully considered to identify viable legal angles.

Analyze Evidence

To hold your employer liable for wrongful termination, you must prove that your firing was against the law. For example, if you were discharged because of your protected class, you’ll need evidence that proves your employer fired you because of your race, gender identity, or another protected category.

If you have any paperwork, emails, or other documents that show your discharge was discriminatory, retaliatory, or illegal for another reason, we can review the records you provide and use them to support your claim. Our team may also use testimony from another employee from your company to bolster your claim. If you know someone from the company who understands the reason for your discharge, passing that information on to your lawyer can further support your case. 

Help You Submit a Complaint

Depending on your claim, you may need to exhaust your administrative remedies by lodging a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). We can file the claim on your behalf to obtain a right-to-sue letter so that you can proceed with a case in civil court. Our attorney can ensure your complaint contains the correct information. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in your filings is essential to uphold the strength and clarity of your case.

Pursue Compensation on Your Behalf

Before filing a lawsuit, your lawyer can attempt to negotiate a settlement on your behalf. If we negotiate a fair payment, you’ll receive money to compensate you for the losses and hardships you’ve endured due to your wrongful termination.

However, your attorney can take further action if your employer and their lawyer refuse to settle. We can seek damages via a lawsuit or arbitration, depending on your circumstances. Our firm is committed to advocating energetically on your behalf, ensuring you receive not only compensation for financial losses but also recognition for the non-economic damages you might have endured, such as emotional distress.

Ensure Your Claim Is Filed on Time

If you’re filing a claim under the FEHA, you’ll have three years to do so. However, different types of claims have different filing deadlines. A wrongful termination attorney in Pasadena at our firm can determine how long you have to submit a claim and ensure it’s done promptly. We provide an informed perspective on the urgency of different claims, ensuring you never miss a critical deadline in the fight for justice.

What You Could Gain from a Successful Claim

If the jury or arbitrator rules in your favor, you could be awarded the following damages, depending on your case:

• Economic damages: These damages can compensate for the lost income you would have made if your employment hadn’t been wrongfully terminated. If your employer said or did something that stopped you from getting another job after you were fired, you could also receive compensation for future income loss. Economic damages not only address past losses but also potential future earnings, providing financial stability during your job search.
• Non-economic damages: If you experienced emotional distress due to your unlawful discharge, you could be entitled to receive non-economic damages. These damages can give you the financial support you need to cope with the psychological pain you experienced and even pay for mental health counseling. Acknowledging the profound emotional impact that wrongful termination can have, these damages reflect an essential recognition of the psychological toll on employees.
• Punitive damages: If your employer’s actions were particularly egregious, malicious, or fraudulent, a jury could also award punitive damages. These damages act as a punishment for the defendant and can also give you extra compensation for your setbacks. Punitive damages serve as both a deterrent to future misconduct by your employer and a financial redress for their egregious behavior.

If you need a wrongful termination attorney, call (213) 772-5882 or contact us online for expert legal help to protect your rights and fight your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Legal Definition of Wrongful Termination in California?

Wrongful termination in California refers to being fired in violation of federal or state laws. This includes terminations that occur due to discrimination (e.g., age, race, gender), as retaliation for whistleblowing or exercising employee rights (such as taking medical leave), or in breach of an existing employment contract that specifies conditions for termination. Employees in Pasadena are protected under statutes like the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, which prevents firing based on various protected characteristics, ensuring employees receive fair treatment in the workplace. Any firing that contravenes these criteria is likely deemed wrongful and can be pursued legally.

How Can I Prove My Wrongful Termination Case?

Proving a wrongful termination case in Pasadena involves gathering sufficient evidence that demonstrates your termination was unlawful. Start with documenting all relevant interactions with your employer, including performance reviews and any communications where discriminatory or retaliatory reasons were implied. Collect witness testimonies from colleagues who can verify your claims. If applicable, present evidence of being treated differently from other employees under similar circumstances. Legal documents, such as contracts that outline your employment terms, are also critical. An attorney at Domb Rauchwerger LLP can guide you through the process, helping ensure that all bases are covered and your claim is as strong as possible.

What Steps Should I Take If I Suspect Wrongful Termination?

If you suspect wrongful termination, it is crucial to act quickly and methodically. Begin by reviewing your employment contract and any company policies that pertain to termination and employee rights. Document everything related to your termination, including written notices, emails, and any informal conversations. Seek legal advice immediately to understand your case's merits and to avoid missing any important filing deadlines. Consulting with a Pasadena-based attorney from Domb Rauchwerger LLP ensures that you can effectively navigate the complexities of employment law in California and initiate the appropriate legal procedures to seek justice.

Trust our experienced Pasdena wrongful termination lawyer at Domb Rauchwerger LLP to address your legal concerns. Act quickly by calling (213) 772-5882 or submitting an online form to reserve your initial consultation.