Wrongful Termination Attorney in Los Angeles
Workers-Only Representation for Unlawful Termination Claims in Los Angeles & the state of California
California is an at-will employment state, meaning most employers can end the employment relationship at any time. But at-will status has real limits. Firing someone because of their race, gender, disability, or religion is illegal. So is terminating an employee for reporting misconduct, requesting medical leave, or refusing to break the law. When a termination crosses those lines, it may give rise to a valid wrongful termination claim.
At Laurel Employment Law, we represent workers only. Our firm has never represented an employer, and we won’t. Founder Joshua White spent years as a corporate executive before becoming an employment attorney, giving us firsthand knowledge of how employers approach discipline, documentation, and termination decisions. That perspective shapes how we build and pursue claims on behalf of Los Angeles workers across all employment law matters. Consultations are free, and we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we obtain a successful outcome.
Call (310) 929-6371 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles.
What Sets Our Wrongful Termination Attorneys Apart
Who you choose to represent you matters, especially when taking on employers. Our practice stands out because of our strategic approach, dedication to clients, and commitment to innovation. Our founder brings direct experience as a former corporate executive, allowing our attorneys to understand employer tactics and build smarter legal strategies on your behalf.
We have developed a technology-driven process to ensure you always feel informed and empowered. Our proprietary case management system keeps you updated, and our bilingual staff makes certain Spanish-speaking clients are fully supported. Over the years, we have resolved many wrongful and unlawful termination cases and have helped workers recover compensation. We only represent employees, never employers, so our loyalty is always clear. Our attorneys take a firm stand against workplace misconduct in Los Angeles to help our clients regain stability and dignity.
Every client receives step-by-step guidance and regular communication. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide honest advice at every stage.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination, also called wrongful dismissal or wrongful discharge, occurs when an employer fires an employee for an illegal reason. The label the employer uses, whether “performance issue,” “restructuring,” or “at-will termination,” doesn’t determine whether a valid claim exists. What matters is the actual reason behind the decision.
We start every case with a comprehensive analysis of the client’s situation, identifying which California and federal statutes apply and building the factual foundation from there. That includes helping clients gather critical evidence: employment contracts, performance records, emails, texts, and witness statements that document what actually happened.
Layoff vs. Termination: Why the Distinction Matters.
Five-Star Client Reviews
Read about how our approach to employment law makes a difference in our clients' lives. To learn more or get started with a consultation, call us at (310) 929-6371 today.
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"They Kept Their Word"
They did what they said they'd do... whether a promise to me or a threat to the other side, they always backed up their words with action.- Jeremy S. -
"They Got the Job Done!"
The firm was recommended to me after my company replaced me while on maternity leave. My lawyer went to work on my case right away and got the job done!- Jessica H. -
"Incredible Experience"
They got me an outcome that was better than I could have imagined. These guys are great lawyers who know what they're doing!- Carlos G. -
"Outstanding Representation!"
They vigorously defended my rights and secured an exceptional outcome, exceeding my expectations.- Albert L. -
"Incredible Attorney"
Joshua White is a rising star in the legal profession. One of the sharpest minds in the field today.- Chris A. -
"Run Exceptionally Well"
I loved the quality and proactivity of communication. They let me know what was going in my case and what would be happening next. I wish all businesses were run this well.- Lori M.
Common Grounds for Wrongful Termination Claims
California law recognizes several legal theories under which a termination may be unlawful. The most common grounds we pursue are outlined below.
Discrimination
Firing someone because of a protected characteristic can be unlawful under both the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal statutes. This includes race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, and sexual orientation. FEHA is enforced by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), covers employers with five or more employees, and provides some of the broadest worker protections in the country.
Retaliation
Employers can’t terminate employees for engaging in legally protected activities, such as:
- Filing a harassment or discrimination complaint.
- Reporting workplace safety violations (whistleblowing).
- Taking legally entitled medical or family leave (FMLA).
Violation of Employment Contracts
If your employment contract specifies the conditions under which you can be terminated, a firing that falls outside those terms may be unlawful, regardless of whether the employer characterizes it as “at-will.”
Breach of Public Policy
Terminating an employee for refusing to participate in illegal activity, filing a workers’ compensation claim, or serving on jury duty can constitute wrongful termination under California’s public policy exception, even without a written employment contract.
California Employment Law Protections
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) is the primary state law prohibiting discriminatory and retaliatory terminations. It is administered by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), formerly the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). FEHA requires employees to file an administrative complaint with the CRD before pursuing a civil lawsuit. Federal law provides parallel protections through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
California also recognizes implied employment contracts, constructive discharge claims (where working conditions became so intolerable that a resignation amounted to a forced termination), and a range of whistleblower protections that go beyond federal minimums. We’re well-versed in navigating these overlapping frameworks and build strategies tailored to each client’s specific situation in Los Angeles and across Los Angeles County.
To discuss your situation with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles, call (310) 929-6371 or contact us online.
Legal Options for Wrongfully Terminated Workers
A wrongful termination doesn’t leave you without recourse. We help Los Angeles workers understand every available path and pursue the one that fits their situation.
Start Your Case with a Free Consultation
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated in the state of California, the first step is understanding what your claim may be worth and what your options are. Every consultation is free, and we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we obtain a successful outcome. There’s no financial risk in reaching out.
Why Los Angeles Workers Choose Laurel Employment Law
Our firm is built around a single focus: representing workers. The differentiators below reflect how we put that commitment into practice for our clients.
- Workers only, always: We represent employees exclusively. Our firm has never represented an employer, which means every strategy we develop is built entirely around protecting workers.
- Founder’s corporate background: Joshua White spent years as a corporate executive before founding this firm. That experience gives us direct insight into how employers document decisions, manage risk, and approach terminations. It is insight we use to anticipate and counter employer arguments.
- Proprietary case management: We use a proprietary case management system to track every detail of your case, improve communication, and move efficiently from intake to resolution.
- Bilingual services: We provide legal assistance in both English and Spanish, serving the full diversity of the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley community.
- Transparent communication: We keep you informed at every stage. You won’t be left wondering what’s happening in your own case.
- Strategic and aggressive advocacy: We take an aggressive approach to holding employers accountable, while staying strategic about when negotiation, mediation, or litigation best serves our clients’ goals.
Call (310) 929-6371 or contact us online to speak with a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles. Consultations are free and there’s no fee unless we obtain a successful outcome.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 310-929-6371 today!
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What Is “at-Will” Employment & How Does It Affect My Wrongful Termination Claim?
California at-will employment allows employers to terminate workers without cause or advance notice, but it doesn’t permit termination for illegal reasons. Firing someone because of a protected characteristic, in retaliation for protected activity, or in violation of an employment contract is unlawful regardless of at-will status.
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What Evidence Do I Need to Prove Wrongful Termination?
Useful evidence includes employment contracts, performance reviews, emails, text messages, HR complaints, leave requests, and witness statements. Records documenting your protected activity and any changes in how you were treated afterward are particularly valuable. Start preserving everything you have access to now.
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What Are the Deadlines for Filing a Wrongful Termination Claim in California?
Deadlines vary by claim type. For discrimination, harassment, or retaliation claims under FEHA, you must file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) within three years of the alleged violation; a right-to-sue letter then gives you one year to file in court. For federal claims under Title VII, the ADEA, or the ADA, the deadline to file with the EEOC in California is 300 days from the alleged violation. Other claim types carry different timelines. Contact an attorney promptly to identify which deadlines apply to your case.
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Can I Sue for Wrongful Termination If I Resigned?
Possibly. Constructive discharge occurs when an employer makes working conditions so intolerable that a reasonable employee has no real choice but to resign. California law treats a constructive discharge as a termination for legal purposes, so a resignation under those circumstances may still support a wrongful termination claim.
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What Are My Rights During the Termination Process?
If you’re involuntarily terminated, California law requires your employer to deliver your final paycheck immediately at the time of termination. You may also request a written explanation for your termination. Severance pay and continuation of benefits are governed by your employment contract and applicable law. They aren’t automatically owed. Our team can help you identify what your former employer was obligated to provide.
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Is It True That Termination for Poor Performance Can’t Be Wrongful?
That’s one of the most common misconceptions. A performance-based termination can still be unlawful if the underlying reason was discrimination or retaliation and the performance rationale was a pretext. Sudden negative reviews following a complaint or a leave request are a pattern our attorneys know how to examine. Many claims also resolve through mediation or negotiated settlement rather than a courtroom trial.
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How Do I Know If My Firing Was Illegal in Los Angeles?
A termination may be unlawful if you were fired because of discrimination, retaliation, whistleblowing, protected leave, or refusing to participate in illegal conduct. California employees are protected by both state and federal employment laws, and some local protections may also apply in Los Angeles. A wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles can review your circumstances, employment records, and employer conduct to determine whether you may have a valid legal claim.
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What Does It Cost to Hire Your Wrongful Termination Lawyers?
Our services are provided on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no out-of-pocket costs, and our firm is only paid if we recover compensation on your behalf. Initial consultations are always free, and during that call, we explain our fee structure fully and answer your financial questions. This approach allows anyone facing wrongful or unlawful termination to get legal help from a wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles without worrying about upfront payments.
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Will My Case Stay Confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is built into our process from your first contact. We handle all communications with care, maintaining attorney-client privilege and protecting your privacy at every stage. If you decide to move forward, our secure case management system ensures your personal information remains private. Many clients are concerned about employer retaliation or future job prospects, and a wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles from our team can work to safeguard sensitive information throughout the case.
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How Long Does a Wrongful Termination Case Take?
The timeline for resolving a wrongful termination claim in Los Angeles depends on several factors, such as the complexity of your case, the responsiveness of your former employer, and the current schedule at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse or the relevant court. Some claims are resolved through negotiation within several months, while others that require formal litigation can take longer. A Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyer can help explain what timelines may apply to your specific circumstances, so there are no unwelcome surprises.
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Do Your Attorneys Speak Spanish?
Yes, several members of our team speak Spanish, and we are committed to serving clients from all language backgrounds. Our bilingual services ensure that Spanish-speaking workers in Los Angeles can communicate their needs clearly and understand every step of their case. Please let us know your language preference when you contact us so we can offer you the right support.