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Wrongful Termination Based on Disability

California law protects employees from discrimination and wrongful termination because of a disability. When an employer fires an employee for that reason, the employee may bring a claim for compensation.

If you have been discriminated against or wrongfully terminated because of a disability, contact our Los Angeles disability discrimination lawyer to discuss your legal options. Contact Aegis Law Firm for a free consultation.

Disability Discrimination and Wrongful Termination

The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits employers from discriminating against employees with physical or mental disabilities. Employers cannot terminate, demote, or otherwise penalize a worker solely because of a medical condition. Disability protections apply broadly and include conditions such as:

  • Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, epilepsy, or cancer
  • Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety
  • Temporary disabilities related to injuries or surgeries
  • Pregnancy-related disabilities
  • Other physical or mental conditions that limit one or more major life activities

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for reasons directly related to a disability, rather than legitimate business needs. Even if an employer claims another reason, evidence may reveal the true motive was discriminatory.

If you have been wrongfully terminated from your job, contact our Los Angeles wrongful termination attorney at Aegis Law Firm to file a claim today.

What are Reasonable Accommodations?

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations that allow employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Examples include:

  • Modified work schedules
  • Additional breaks for medical treatment
  • Assistive technology or equipment
  • Reassignment to an open position
  • Temporary leave for medical recovery

If an employee can perform their duties with reasonable accommodations, the employer cannot lawfully terminate them. An employer who refuses to consider accommodations or fails to engage in an interactive process may be liable for wrongful termination.

Employers Cannot Retaliate Against You for Exercising Rights

California law also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who assert their rights under disability protections. If a worker requests a reasonable accommodation, files a complaint, or takes protected medical leave, the employer cannot respond by firing them. Retaliation is a separate violation of the law and can increase the damages an employee may recover.

Legal Remedies for Wrongful Termination Based on Disability

Employees who suffer wrongful termination due to disability discrimination may pursue significant remedies, including:

  • Reinstatement to their former position
  • Back pay for lost wages and benefits
  • Front pay for future lost earnings if reinstatement is not possible
  • Compensation for emotional distress caused by discrimination and termination
  • Punitive damages in cases of willful or malicious conduct by the employer
  • Attorney’s fees and court costs

These remedies exist to make employees whole and to punish employers who violate California’s disability and wrongful termination laws.

Why Hiring a Los Angeles Discrimination Attorney is Critical

Wrongful termination cases involving disability discrimination are complex. Employers often try to justify their actions by claiming performance issues, restructuring, or other neutral reasons. Proving that disability discrimination motivated the termination requires gathering evidence, analyzing employment records, and presenting a strong legal argument.

An experienced Los Angeles disability discrimination lawyer is critical because they can:

  • Evaluate your case: Determine whether your termination violated FEHA or other California protections.
  • Collect evidence: Collect documents, emails, performance reviews, and witness testimony that show the true reason for termination.
  • Engage with the employer: Communicate with the company on your behalf to demand reinstatement or compensation.
  • File claims and lawsuits: Represent you before the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or in court.
  • Maximize recovery: Pursue all available remedies, including back pay, emotional distress damages, and punitive damages.

Without representation, there is a heightened risk of missing deadlines, overlooking critical evidence, or settling for less than you deserve. 

Contact Us Today

Call us today at (949) 379-6250 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation. You pay no fees unless we win your case.