Can You Sue an Employer for False Promises?

Imagine your boss assures you that you’ll be promoted in the upcoming quarter, but your position and pay grade remain the same long after the quarter ends. This unfortunate scenario is just one example of an employer misleading their employee. Workers across various industries may be subject to this, but is it legal? 

At D.Law, we’ve had many clients ask, “Can I sue my employer for false promises?” Learn about your legal options in this guide and how to pursue employer fraud and misrepresentation claims. 

How Employment Attorneys Support Workers Facing Unfair Treatment

Violations of employment laws typically lead to an employee’s unfair treatment in the workplace. For example, one worker could be intentionally excluded from business activities because of their race, which would violate anti-discrimination laws. Another worker may end up losing their job in retaliation for reporting such violations. 

Employees have several rights under state and federal employment laws. If they need help protecting those rights, experienced employment attorneys in San Diego could be a valuable resource. Lawyers can review evidence supporting one’s claim, determine if they have a case, and guide them through the legal process. 

Employees who file claims may seek compensatory damages from their employer. Lawyers can help evaluate potential damages and negotiate a settlement agreement with the employer. 

Examples of False Promises Employers May Make 

Before answering the question “Can I sue my employer for false promises?” let’s review some of the common claims that either current or prospective employees may hear from an employer. While a job candidate or current employee expects an employer to follow through on these claims, the employer may have no intention of carrying out the promise.

False promises made by employers could center around the following:

• Promotions: If you’re planning to take a new job, your employer may claim you’re about to be promoted in an attempt to keep you in your current role. It raises legal concerns if they have no intention to promote you. 
• Salary: You may be able to take legal action against the employer over salary discrepancies, depending on your circumstances.   
• Position: Some employees rely on the information given about a position and its duties before accepting an offer. Employers who knowingly misrepresent the role could be making false promises.
• Benefits: Perhaps you decide to relocate for work because the employer offers to cover moving expenses. Never receiving that work-related benefit could be considered a false employment promise. 

Can You Sue for False Job Promises After Hiring?

“I accepted a job offer based on the promises made during the hiring process. Now, as an employee, none of those have come to fruition. Can I sue my employer for false promises?”

If you find yourself in this frustrating position, recognize your rights when it comes to employer misrepresentation. Employers cannot knowingly misrepresent key aspects of your employment, such as the salary, workplace conditions, or nature of the position. If they do, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit and potentially seek damages. 

These claims are slightly different from breach of contract disputes. Some people sue for false promises without having an employment contract. 

Tips for Taking Legal Action for False Employment Promises

Anyone considering suing an employer for false promises in California may want to take the following steps:

• Gather documentation: Various documents could support your misrepresentation claim, such as your employment contract, email communication, written job offers, or witness statements. 
• Evaluate your losses: The employer’s false promise may have financial consequences, such as moving expenses you had to cover yourself. Document these losses accordingly. 
• Consult an attorney: Meet with an employment attorney to review the legality of your employer’s actions, particularly in an at-will employment state like California. 

Depending on the information you present, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit against the employer. The process may lead to your employer paying you damages, though outcomes vary for every case. 

Contact Our Employment Law Firm for Assistance

Can I sue my employer for false promises? How can I tell if my employer’s actions are a breach of an employment contract? How much could my case be worth?

At D.Law, we’re happy to answer these questions and more. Reach out to our team today, and we’ll schedule a free case evaluation. With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be able to hold your employer accountable for false claims and misrepresentation. 

Submit our online contact form or call us at (818) 275-5799 today to get started.