Alameda County Unlawful Termination Lawyers

When an employer terminates your employment, it can be a devastating blow to your self-confidence, but it can also present significant financial difficulties for you and your family.

The experienced unlawful termination lawyers of Minnis & Smallets LLP are here to help. We know that an unlawful termination raises numerous questions about accepting severance, working with an attorney, and what the legal process entails. Give us a call so that we can find out more about your situation and perhaps schedule a time to meet with one of our attorneys. Your phone call is entirely confidential, and we can often help you identify and understand your options and decide which option works best for you. 

Unlawful Grounds for Termination

In general, all employees in California are considered at-will. This is the general rule in California. Some employees have agreements that limit the employer’s ability to terminate without cause. However, in most cases, the employment relationship may be terminated at any time, or for any reason, or for no reason.

There are, however, a number of exceptions to the at-will rule. For example, an employer cannot fire an employee based on a protected classification, such as age, race, or gender. An employer also cannot fire an employee for engaging in protected activity, such as taking medical leave or requesting accommodation for a disability. Here are several key examples of unlawful termination. 

• Refusing Sexual Advances. It is unlawful for an employer to terminate you for refusing sexual advances.

• Too Old to Work Here. It is unlawful for an employer to terminate you for being too old to do the job.

• Whistleblower termination. Your employer cannot legally fire you for reporting illegal activity. Under federal and state laws, whistleblowers are protected against retaliation.

• Exercising Legal Rights. Your employer is prohibited from firing you for exercising your legal right, such as to take care of a seriously ill family member or requesting time off to obtain treatment for a disability.

Contacting an Experienced Team of Unlawful Termination Lawyers 

If you suspect that your employer has fired you for an unlawful reason or is getting ready to do so, call Minnis & Smallets LLP, and speak with one of our unlawful termination lawyers today. With decades of experience on your side, you stand a better chance of recovering monetary compensation for your lost income. If you suspect a supervisor or boss has violated your rights in any way, give us a call today.