■  Wrongful termination

California is generally an “at-will” employment state, meaning an employer can fire an employee for almost any reason without notice or cause. But there are a few instances in which a termination may be considered wrongful or unlawful. 

• An employer fired you in retaliation for upholding your rights.
• An employer fired you for discriminatory reasons.
• The termination violated your employment contract.
• The termination was malicious or in bad faith.

In these cases, our employment attorneys in San Diego County can help you explore a wrongful termination case against your employer. This could allow you to seek reinstatement in your company and pursue lost wages or other potential damages.

■  Pay and overtime issues

You have a right to the wages you earned in your job position. If your employer fails to pay what they rightfully owe, they may violate employment law. 

Examples of pay and overtime issues we handle in San Diego County include:

• Unpaid overtime
• Minimum wage violations
• Improper employment classifications
• Unpaid breaks
• Forcing employees to work off the clock
• Offering comp time in lieu of overtime pay
• Incorrect wage calculations

Talk to our attorneys about how you can hold an employer accountable for unpaid wages. 

■  Discrimination and harassment

Federal and state employment laws protect workers against discrimination and harassment. If you have experienced either type of behavior in the workplace, speak with our attorneys about your next step. 

Workplace discrimination includes unfair or unequal treatment based on a protected characteristic, such as race, religion, age, sex, sexuality, or disability. Harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on any of these protected characteristics that creates a hostile work environment. 

Our attorneys advocate for the rights of workers to a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. 

 ■  Workplace retaliation

Retaliation claims arise when an employer takes negative action against an employee who upholds or advocates for their rights. For example, firing an employee after they submit a discrimination claim could be considered retaliation. Moving the worker to a less desirable position or passing them over for a promotion they qualify for could also be retaliatory actions. 

You should not have to fear for your job after taking a stand against your employer. Let us help you explore a retaliation claim. 

■  Leave of absence disputes 

Employers are generally required to honor leaves of absence that their employees take under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If your employer has retaliated against you for taking protected leave, changed your job duties, or pressured you to return from leave early, you may have a claim against them.