Can I Be Fired Without Cause in California?

While at-will employment allows flexibility, it does not give employers unrestricted power. Several laws protect employees from being fired unlawfully. You may have a wrongful termination claim in Orange County if your employer violated these legal protections.

When a Termination Becomes Illegal

Discrimination-Based Termination

It is illegal for employers to terminate an employee based on a protected characteristic, including:

• Race or ethnicity.
• Gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
• Age (40 and older).
• Religion or creed.
• Disability or medical condition.
• National origin or ancestry.
• Marital or pregnancy status.

If your employer fired you because of any of these traits—or because of perceived membership in one of these groups—you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our workplace discrimination lawyers in Orange County today.

Retaliation for Protected Activity

California law prohibits employers from firing employees for asserting their legal rights or engaging in “protected activity.” Examples include:

• Reporting workplace discrimination or harassment.
• Filing a wage claim or complaint with the Labor Commissioner.
• Taking legally protected medical or family leave.
• Reporting unsafe working conditions to Cal/OSHA.
• Acting as a whistleblower.

If you were terminated after engaging in any of these activities, your firing may be considered retaliation.

Breach of Contract or Implied Agreement

Although most California employment is at-will, exceptions exist when a written or implied employment contract states otherwise. If your employer promised continued employment or termination only for cause, that agreement may override the at-will presumption.

Courts may also find an implied contract based on company policies, employee handbooks, or verbal assurances suggesting job security.

To discuss more about your legal options, speak with one of our Orange County breach of contract attorneys today.

Violation of Public Policy

Employers cannot fire workers for reasons that violate public policy. Examples include:

• Refusing to engage in illegal acts.
• Reporting illegal conduct by the employer.
• Exercising a legal right, such as filing a workers’ compensation claim.

What Is At-Will Employment in California?

Under California Labor Code §2922, employment with no specified duration is presumed to be “at-will.” This means either the employer or the employee may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and with or without cause. In other words, your employer can fire you for nearly any reason, such as:

• Restructuring or downsizing.
• A change in management or business priorities.
• Personality conflicts.
• Performance concerns.
• No reason at all.

Similarly, you are free to quit your job at any time, without notice, if you choose.

What to Do If You Were Fired Without Cause

If you were terminated and suspect it was for an illegal reason, take the following steps immediately:

Request Documentation

Ask for your termination letter or reason for dismissal in writing.

Gather Evidence

Save emails, text messages, or performance reviews that support your claim.

Document the Timeline

Record important dates, including when the protected activity occurred and when the termination happened.

Consult a Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Orange County

A skilled Orange County wrongful termination attorney can evaluate your case, identify violations, and determine if you have a claim for wrongful termination. A lawyer can also help you recover compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and potential punitive damages if the employer’s conduct was malicious or intentional. Contact us for your free consultation today.