Wrongful termination is stressful for anyone, but it is even more distressing for anyone who has given their life to their career. You have the right to work in the job you want, whether it be agriculture, warehousing, film, technology, or tourism. California has extensive protections for its workers and allows them a legal cause of action to recover if an employer wrongly terminated their employment. The common question is: How much compensation can you get for wrongful termination?
At Bibiyan Law Group, our wrongful termination attorneys in Los Angeles have decades of experience working exclusively in employment law. We have seen cases with outcomes ranging from a few thousand dollars up to $750,000 for wrongful termination. Most wrongful termination cases settle for less than $50,000. However, with an attorney, you may secure a higher settlement. Having an attorney generally results in higher settlements. And you can only know what you might get from a settlement once you speak with a lawyer. Contact us today!
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination is employment discrimination when an employer fires an employee without legal cause. Not all terminations of employment are considered “wrongful termination.” In general, employment in California is “at-will,” meaning that either the employer or the employee can end the employment relationship at any time or for any reason, but there are some exceptions.
In California, several circumstances can give rise to a wrongful termination claim, including:
- Discrimination – If an employer terminates an employee based on the employee’s race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic, you may have a claim for wrongful termination based on discrimination.
- Retaliation – If an employer terminates an employee in retaliation for the employee’s protected activity, such as reporting harassment or discrimination, the employee may have a claim for wrongful termination based on retaliation.
- Public Policy – If an employer terminates an employee in violation of public policy, such as by reporting illegal or unethical conduct, the employee may have a claim for wrongful termination based on public policy.
When you experience wrongful termination, it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced wrongful termination attorney in Los Angeles who can help you understand your rights and pursue a claim. California’s statute of limitations for most wrongful termination claims is typically one year from the termination date. However, you should file a complaint with the EEOC within 300 days.
How Much Should I Sue for Wrongful Termination? Factors to Consider
Wrongful termination claims can be filed for several reasons, resulting in a wide variety of settlement amounts. The harm you experience as a result of the termination determines the value of your claim. Some common types of damages recoverable in wrongful termination cases in California include:
- Back pay – the wages and benefits you would have received if your employer had not wrongfully terminated you. Back pay is meant to compensate for the wages you would have earned between the time of your firing and the final judgment, settlement, or reinstatement.
- Front pay – future earnings you would have earned had your employer not wrongfully terminated your employment. Front pay may be awarded in lieu of reinstatement or to compensate the employee for the time it will take to find new employment.
- Emotional distress damages – the amount that will compensate you for your emotional and mental suffering caused by the employer’s actions. Emotional distress damages can include compensation for anxiety, depression, loss of sleep, loss of enjoyment of life, and other forms of mental and emotional distress.
- Exemplary or punitive damages – In some cases, an employer’s conduct may be so egregious that a court may award punitive damages as a way to punish the employer and deter similar conduct in the future.
The facts of your case will determine how much money you may be able to get as compensation. An expert in employment law can help you figure out what kind of compensation you may be entitled to and help you fight for your legal rights.
Wrongful Termination Damages:
At-Will Employment and Wrongful Termination:
- In California, most employment is at-will, meaning employers can fire employees anytime for any reason, unless it is illegal (discriminatory, retaliatory, or in breach of contract).
- Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is unlawfully fired.
Rights of Wrongfully Terminated Employees:
- Right to file a claim for illegal termination, including discrimination or retaliation.
- Right to be free from discrimination based on race, religion, gender, etc.
- Right to leave under specific circumstances protected by FMLA and CFRA.
- Right to seek damages for wrongful termination.
Types of Damages in Wrongful Termination Cases:
- Economic Damages:
- Lost wages (salary, bonuses, commissions).
- Lost benefits (health insurance, retirement contributions).
- Lost future earnings.
- Job search costs (travel expenses, resume services).
- Noneconomic Damages:
- Emotional distress (anxiety, depression).
- Reputational damage.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages:
- To punish egregious employer conduct and deter future misconduct.
- Applicable in cases of discrimination, retaliation, gross negligence, or intentional misconduct.
Navigating Wrongful Termination Claims:
- Skilled legal counsel is essential to assess claims, gather evidence, negotiate, and litigate for just compensation.
Start Your Wrongful Termination Case with Bibiyan Law Group
Our California employment law attorney have the education, experience, resources, and relationships to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your wrongful termination case. With 20 lawyers trained at top-ranked law schools on our team, we have the expertise and drive to fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our focus is on promoting fair treatment for employees. We have a proven track record of achieving positive results with millions of dollars in settlements each year. Don’t wait. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need to protect your rights.
David Bibiyan, a top attorney at Tomorrow Law™, specializes in employment law, fiercely defending employees in cases of discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage issues. Known for his deep legal knowledge and dedication, he consistently secures favorable outcomes through skillful negotiation and litigation. His passion for justice drives his commitment to workers’ rights and fair employment practices.
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