What happens if the company fires you without cause in Commerce?
If your employer fires you without a valid legal reason in Commerce, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim. California law protects employees from being fired for discriminatory reasons, in retaliation for protected activities, or in violation of an employment contract or public policy.
How long do you have to sue for wrongful termination, and what can you recover?
Most wrongful termination claims must be filed within two years (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). However, if your claim involves a city, county, or other public agency, you must present a written claim to that entity within six months (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2) before you can file a lawsuit. The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352, but Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352(b) removes that pause for claims against public entities under the Government Claims Act.
If your claim is successful, you can pursue the full compensation available under California law. This can include lost wages and benefits, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages if the employer's conduct was particularly egregious. What a claim is worth depends on the specific facts.
What kinds of wrongful termination cases does Casa Legal Los Angeles handle?
Casa Legal Los Angeles represents workers in Commerce who have been illegally fired from their jobs. This includes terminations based on discrimination due to age, race, gender, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. We also handle cases where an employee was fired in retaliation for reporting illegal activity, such as a whistleblower complaint, or for exercising their legal rights like taking medical leave. Our firm also assists with cases where an employer breaches an employment contract or violates public policy. Learn more about your employee rights or discuss a severance agreement with our team.
Where does a wrongful termination claim from Commerce get filed?
A wrongful termination claim arising in Commerce is generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Under LASC Local Rule 2.3 and the General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases (effective May 17, 2024), cases are assigned to the judicial district where the incident occurred. For Commerce, this means your claim would typically be heard at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, located at 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
What should you do if you believe you were wrongfully terminated?
- Document everything: Keep detailed records of your employment, performance reviews, communications with your employer, and any incidents leading up to your termination.
- Review your employment contract: If you have an employment contract, review its terms carefully to understand your rights and the company's obligations.
- Do not sign anything you do not understand: Be careful not to sign any documents, such as a severance agreement or release of claims, without fully understanding their implications.
- Seek legal advice: Contact an attorney who focuses on wrongful termination law to discuss your situation and evaluate your options.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means having an experienced legal team by your side through every step of your wrongful termination claim. We will investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with your former employer, and if necessary, represent you in court. Our goal is to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Wrongful termination is all we do, and we advocate for workers not just in Commerce, but in neighboring cities like Bell, Azusa, and Baldwin Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be fired for any reason in California?
While California is an "at-will" employment state, meaning employers can generally fire employees without cause, there are important exceptions. You cannot be fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination, retaliation for protected activities, or in violation of public policy or an employment contract.
How long does a wrongful termination case usually take to resolve in Los Angeles County?
The time it takes to resolve a wrongful termination case varies greatly depending on the specific facts, the employer's willingness to negotiate, and the complexity of the legal issues. Some cases settle quickly, while others may proceed through litigation and take longer, especially if they involve trials at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse.
What types of evidence are useful in a wrongful termination claim?
Useful evidence in a wrongful termination claim includes your employment contract, performance reviews, emails, text messages, witness statements, and any company policies or handbooks. Documentation showing a pattern of discrimination or retaliation is especially strong.
What if my former employer claims I was fired for poor performance?
If your employer claims poor performance was the reason for your termination, but you believe it was a pretext for an illegal reason, it's important to gather evidence that contradicts their claim. This could include positive performance reviews, awards, or evidence that other employees with similar performance issues were not terminated. The deadlines for filing are strict, so contact a lawyer promptly.
If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated from your job in Commerce, call Casa Legal Los Angeles today at 888-585-2529 for a consultation. No attorney's fees unless we win—and no case costs either. Our firm focuses on employment law and protecting the rights of workers.