An example of an unlawful firing is where an employer terminates an employee based on some legally protected characteristic such as the employee’s physical or mental disability, pregnancy, race, national origin, gender or age. Similarly, an employee who is fired for lawfully taking medical leave, stepping forward as a whistleblower or in retaliation for reporting harassment (or other unlawful activity in the workplace) can seek damages against his or her employer. Additionally, while an employee handbook is generally not considered a legal contract, employers may be held accountable for what is in the handbook or for not having stated policies in place.
Get in touch with our wrongful termination lawyer in Orange County to discuss your case.