San Bernardino Wrongful Termination Lawyer
Attorney advertisement by Edwin Aiwazian of Lawyers for Justice, PC, headquartered at 410 Arden Avenue, Glendale, CA 91203
Losing your job can be a devastating experience, especially if you believe an employer wrongfully terminated you. In San Bernardino, wrongful termination is not just unfair—it’s illegal.
Understanding your rights and knowing how to proceed can make a significant difference in your fight for justice. A San Bernardino wrongful termination lawyer can help. At Lawyers for Justice, PC, we are here to help you navigate this challenging time and stand up for your rights.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
In California, wrongful termination consists of specific legal standards that protect employees from unjust dismissal. Despite the state’s at-will employment status, which allows employers to terminate employees for almost any reason, there are significant exceptions. These exceptions are crucial for protecting employees’s rights and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace.
Discrimination
Employers cannot terminate employees based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics. For example, if you were consistently performing well but were fired shortly after disclosing a disability, this might constitute wrongful termination due to discrimination.
Retaliation
If an employer terminated you after reporting illegal activities, safety violations, or exercising your legal rights (such as taking family leave), your dismissal could be considered retaliatory and wrongful.
Violation of Public Policy
Employers cannot fire employees for reasons that violate public policy, such as refusing to engage in illegal activities or reporting wrongdoing.
Breach of Contract: If you had an employment contract that stipulated conditions for termination and those conditions were not met, your termination could be considered wrongful.
How Do I Know If I Have Been Wrongfully Terminated?
Determining whether your termination was wrongful involves examining the circumstances and evidence surrounding your dismissal. Indicators of wrongful termination include:
- Timing—if your termination coincides with your engagement in legally protected activities (e.g., filing a complaint or taking medical leave), this timing can be suspicious and suggest retaliation;
- Inconsistent reasons—if the reasons for your termination do not align with your performance or behavior, or if your employer’s justification changes, this inconsistency can indicate a pretext for an unlawful motive;
- Discriminatory actions or remarks—evidence of discriminatory behavior or comments from your employer or colleagues can support a claim of wrongful termination based on discrimination; and
- Policy and contract violations—review your employment contract and company policies to see if your termination violates these agreements.
Your San Bernardino wrongful termination lawyer can evaluate your unique circumstances and help you determine whether you were wrongfully terminated.
What to Do If You Were Wrongfully Terminated
If you believe your employer wrongfully terminated you, taking the proper steps can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are the key actions to take.
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of incidents, communications, and relevant documents supporting your claim. These records include emails, performance reviews, and written warnings or termination letters.
Request a Written Explanation
Ask your employer for a written explanation of your termination. The explanation can help clarify the reasons behind your dismissal and identify any inconsistencies or potential legal violations.
File a Complaint
Depending on your case, file a complaint with the appropriate governmental agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or California Civil Rights Department (CRD). These agencies will investigate your complaint and attempt to resolve the issue.
Consult a San Bernardino Wrongful Termination Lawyer
An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process.
Why You Need a San Bernardino Wrongful Termination Lawyer
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer to file a wrongful termination claim, having a knowledgeable wrongful termination lawyer in San Bernardino can significantly increase your chances of success. An attorney can:
- Assess your case—provide a professional evaluation of your situation to determine if you have a valid claim;
- Gather evidence—help you collect and organize the necessary evidence to support your case;
- Navigate legal processes—guide you through the complex legal procedures and ensure all filings are timely and accurate; and
- Negotiate settlements—represent you in negotiations with your former employer or their legal team to seek a fair settlement.
Navigating the legal processes involved in a wrongful termination claim can be complex and overwhelming. An experienced lawyer will guide you through each step.
Additionally, a lawyer can represent you in negotiations with your former employer or their legal team, seeking a fair settlement on your behalf. At Lawyers for Justice, PC, our dedicated team is committed to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Detailed Steps for Filing a Wrongful Termination Claim
Filing a wrongful termination claim involves several critical steps, and understanding each can help you prepare effectively.
Consultation
Schedule a consultation with a San Bernardino wrongful termination attorney to discuss your case. An experienced attorney will review your circumstances, evaluate the validity of your claim, and advise you on the best course of action.
Investigation
Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering all relevant evidence, including employment records, witness statements, and any documentation that supports your claim. The investigation may involve reviewing your employment contract, company policies, and any communication related to your termination.
Filing a Complaint
Depending on the nature of your claim, your lawyer may file a complaint with the appropriate government agency, such as the EEOC or CRD. These agencies will investigate your complaint and attempt to resolve the issue through mediation or other means.
Lawsuit
If the complaint process does not result in a satisfactory resolution, your lawyer may file a lawsuit on your behalf. Filing involves drafting and submitting a legal complaint to the court, outlining the details of your wrongful termination and the damages you seek.
Discovery
During the discovery phase, both parties exchange information and evidence related to the case. Information may include depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents. Your lawyer will represent you throughout this process, ensuring all relevant evidence is obtained and properly presented.
Negotiation and Settlement
Many wrongful termination cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement before reaching trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with your former employer’s legal team to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your damages.
Trial
If you cannot reach a settlement, your case will proceed to trial. Your lawyer will present your case in court, advocating on your behalf and seeking a favorable verdict.
How Lawyers for Justice, PC Can Help
At Lawyers for Justice, PC, we understand the emotional and financial toll that wrongful termination can take on you and your family. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized legal support and aggressive representation to help you achieve justice.
We believe everyone has the right to a fair and just workplace, free from discrimination, retaliation, and other illegal practices. Our commitment to our clients extends beyond legal representation; we strive to empower you with knowledge and support throughout the process.
Contact Lawyers for Justice, PC Today
If you believe an employer wrongfully terminated you, don’t wait to seek help. The experienced team at Lawyers for Justice, PC, is here to fight for your rights and help you achieve the justice you deserve. As a leading wrongful termination law firm in San Bernardino, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.
Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step towards restoring your career and peace of mind. Remember, at-will employment does not mean you can be fired for an unlawful reason. Stand up for your rights with a trusted San Bernardino wrongful termination lawyer by your side.