Is every unfair firing considered wrongful termination?

No. In California, employers may fire employees for many reasons, even unfair ones. A firing becomes wrongful when it violates a specific law, protected class, or public policy.

Can I still bring a claim if I resigned?

Yes. If your resignation was due to severe discrimination, retaliation, or harassment, you may have experienced constructive discharge, which is treated as a termination under California law.

What if my employer claims I was fired for performance?

Employers often provide a legitimate reason, even when the real cause is unlawful. Attorneys review documentation, timing, and inconsistencies to uncover evidence of pretext for wrongful termination.

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

Deadlines vary depending on whether the claim involves FEHA, the Labor Code, whistleblower protections, or violations of public policy. Because statutes differ, it is important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Should I accept a severance agreement?

Not without legal review. Severance agreements often include waivers that limit your rights. An attorney can evaluate whether the agreement is fair or should be negotiated before you sign.

Can I pursue a class action for wrongful termination?

Generally, wrongful termination is an individual claim because each firing is based on unique circumstances. However, if multiple employees were terminated under the same unlawful policy, a class or representative action may be possible.

California Wrongful Termination Lawyer for Employees

Think your firing was unlawful? Our attorneys can review what happened and explain your rights under California law. Contact Peter Law Group by completing a brief intake form for a free case evaluation.

What Counts as Wrongful Termination in California?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for an illegal reason. Even though California is an at-will state, employers cannot terminate someone for reasons that violate the Labor Code, FEHA, public policy, or retaliation laws.

Common examples include being fired for:

Reporting illegal or unsafe practices
Requesting medical leave or disability accommodations
Complaining about discrimination, harassment, or retaliation
Refusing to engage in unlawful activity
Discussing wages or workplace conditions
Filing a workers’ compensation claim
Participating in an investigation
Taking protected leave (CFRA/FMLA)

Wrongful termination is about why you were fired — not just whether the termination feels unfair.

Signs Your Termination May Have Been Unlawful

Consider whether any of these applied:

You were fired shortly after making a complaint
Your employer suddenly changed your performance reviews or duties
You were replaced immediately after being terminated
HR discouraged you from reporting misconduct
You faced hostility after asserting your rights
You were punished for time off related to health or family needs

Many wrongful termination cases start with sudden changes in tone, scrutiny, or discipline.

Unsure whether your termination was illegal? Peter Law Group can assess your situation, identify potential claims, and guide you through your options. Fill out a short intake form to receive a free, confidential case review.

What to Do Immediately After Being Fired

1. Gather Relevant Documents

Save:

Emails, texts, or Slack messages
Performance reviews
Job descriptions
Write-ups or disciplinary notices
Witness names
Any notes from HR meetings

2. Avoid Signing Anything

Some employers offer severance agreements that limit your rights.
Always review these with an attorney before accepting.

3. Write a Timeline of What Happened

A simple list of events helps your attorney evaluate your case quickly.

4. Contact an Employment Attorney

Wrongful termination claims often involve tight deadlines and the potential for substantial compensation. Early legal advice protects your rights.

Damages Available in California Wrongful Termination Cases

Employees may recover:

Lost wages / back pay
Future lost earnings
Emotional distress damages
Punitive damages (for egregious employer conduct)
Attorneys’ fees
Civil penalties under FEHA and the Labor Code

If retaliation was involved, additional damages may apply.

Wrongful Termination vs. Retaliation — What’s the Difference?

A termination may be both:

Retaliation → employer punished you for a protected activity
Wrongful termination → the firing violated a fundamental public policy or statute

Not all retaliation includes termination, and not all terminations involve retaliation.
An attorney can identify which claims apply to your case.

How Peter Law Group Helps Employees

Peter Law Group represents California employees who have been terminated for unlawful reasons. Our attorneys investigate your claim, preserve evidence, communicate with your former employer, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Arnold P. Peter and a Peter Law Group attorney discussing a California wrongful termination case — Peter Law Group attorneys, led by Arnold P. Peter, represent workers across California in wrongful termination disputes.

Led by Arnold P. Peter, our employment litigation team has extensive experience handling wrongful termination claims involving discrimination, retaliation, wage violations, and breaches of public policy.

Our attorneys:

Handle cases on a contingency fee basis — no upfront cost
Provide honest assessments of potential claims
Protect employees from further retaliation during the process
Negotiate from a position of strength
Prepare every case as if it may go to trial

Contact Peter Law Group

If you were fired for an unlawful reason, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Contact Peter Law Group for a confidential, no-cost consultation to learn your rights under California law.

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