Sacramento Wrongful Termination Attorney

Experienced Representation for Wrongful Termination Claims

If you have been wrongfully terminated from your job in Sacramento, you don’t have to face it alone. At Polaris Law Group, we are dedicated to helping employees stand up for their rights and pursue justice after an unjust dismissal. Our experienced Sacramento wrongful termination lawyers understand the complexities of employment law and are committed to fighting for our clients to ensure that justice is served.

Wrongful termination cases are often complicated, requiring deep knowledge of both state and federal employment laws. Polaris Law Group has the expertise to navigate these complexities and provide comprehensive legal support to those who have been wrongfully terminated.

If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, contact us online or at (888) 796-4010.

What is Considered Wrongful Termination?

In California, most employment is "at-will," meaning employers have the right to terminate employees at any time, with or without cause. However, this does not grant employers the freedom to fire employees for illegal or discriminatory reasons. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer terminates an employee for reasons that are protected by law.

Some common examples of wrongful termination include:

• Firing based on discrimination (such as race, gender, age, religion, or disability)
• Terminating an employee as retaliation for reporting unlawful activities (whistleblowing)
• Dismissing an employee for taking legally protected leave, such as medical or family leave
• Ending employment because the employee refused to participate in illegal activities

State & Federal Laws Against Wrongful Termination

Numerous federal and state laws protect employees from wrongful termination. Understanding these laws is crucial for identifying when an employer has crossed legal boundaries in dismissing an employee.

Federal Protections

Federal laws provide a framework for protecting employees from discrimination and retaliation in the workplace. Some key federal statutes that may apply in a wrongful termination case include:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Protects employees from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects employees with disabilities from discriminatory treatment in the workplace.
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Grants eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for specific family and medical reasons, with job protection.
• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Protects workers aged 40 and older from discrimination based on age.

California State Protections

California offers even stronger protections against wrongful termination under state laws:

• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): Protects employees from discrimination based on a wide range of characteristics, including gender, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, and more.
• California Labor Code: Provides additional protections, such as prohibiting employers from retaliating against employees who report illegal activities (whistleblower protections).
• California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Extends similar protections as the FMLA, providing up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for certain family and medical situations.

Common Signs of Wrongful Termination

If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, it can be challenging to prove your claim without concrete evidence. However, certain signs can help you determine if your termination may have been unlawful:

• Sudden Termination After Reporting Misconduct: If you were fired shortly after reporting workplace misconduct, harassment, or illegal activities, it may be a case of retaliation.
• Unjust Disciplinary Actions: If your employer began documenting trivial performance issues or created a paper trail against you shortly before your termination, it could suggest they were setting up a justification for dismissal.
• Violation of Company Policy: If the employer failed to follow their own termination policies or did not conduct a fair investigation before firing you, it may support your claim.
• Discriminatory Remarks or Actions: Any discriminatory comments or actions based on your protected characteristics, such as race, gender, or age, could serve as evidence of wrongful termination.

Our Sacramento wrongful termination lawyers at Polaris Law Group can help analyze the details of your case to identify these and other signs that may point to wrongful termination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Termination

Can I sue my employer for wrongful termination in Sacramento?

Yes, if you believe you were fired for reasons that violate federal or state laws, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit. Our Sacramento wrongful termination lawyers can help you determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.

How long do I have to file a wrongful termination claim in California?

The statute of limitations for wrongful termination claims varies depending on the specifics of your case. Generally, you have up to two years to file under certain state claims, but claims involving discrimination under FEHA have a one-year limit. Our attorneys can help ensure you meet the relevant deadlines.

What compensation is available for wrongful termination?

In a wrongful termination case, you may be eligible to recover lost wages, benefits, emotional distress damages, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Our team will work to maximize the compensation you receive.

Don't wait if you believe you were wrongfully terminated. Contact us online or at (888) 796-4010 for an initial case consultation!