Wrongful Termination Employment Lawyers La Verne

California recognizes at-will employment, allowing an employer to end employment for many reasons. However, termination becomes unlawful when the decision is based on discrimination, retaliation, or a reason that violates a fundamental public policy.

Miracle Mile Law Group provides expert legal representation for employees in La Verne who have experienced wrongful termination, challenging illegal employment practices across Los Angeles County.

Common Grounds for a Wrongful Termination Claim

A termination can be unlawful even when an employer claims it is due to performance or restructuring. The legal analysis focuses on the real reason for the termination.

• Discrimination under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) based on protected characteristics.
• Retaliation for reporting suspected legal violations or asserting workplace rights.
• Termination connected to protected leave, including the Family Rights Act (CFRA) and pregnancy disability leave.
• Constructive discharge when working conditions become intolerable due to unlawful conduct.

Wrongful Termination in Violation of Public Policy

California recognizes wrongful termination in violation of public policy as a tort claim.

• Tameny v. Atlantic Richfield Co. (1980): Established that an employer cannot discharge an employee for refusing to perform an illegal act, as it violates fundamental public policy.
• Green v. Ralee Engineering Co. (1998): Expanded public policy claims, holding that administrative regulations can serve as the basis for a Tameny claim, protecting employees who report safety violations.
• Guz v. Bechtel National, Inc. (2000): Addressed pretext in discrimination claims, allowing employees to show that stated business reasons are a cover for discriminatory motives, and clarified the standards for breach of implied contract claims.
• Hearn v. Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (2025): A recent ruling that further clarifies the evidentiary requirements and scope of wrongful termination in violation of public policy claims under California law.

Special Considerations for La Verne Employees

Wrongful termination matters in La Verne often arise in higher education, aviation, and public employment. Major employers include the University of La Verne, Bonita Unified School District, and Brackett Field.

Public sector employees have additional protections and procedural requirements. Crucially, before suing a public entity for damages under state law, an employee must file a government tort claim within six months of the termination. Failure to do so can permanently bar the claim.

Where La Verne Cases Are Handled

Civil cases arising from La Verne are typically handled in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, East District, at the Pomona Courthouse South. Claims involving FEHA require filing an administrative complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) to obtain a right-to-sue notice before proceeding to civil court.

Potential Remedies

Available remedies in a wrongful termination case may include back pay, front pay, emotional distress damages, punitive damages in cases involving malice or oppression, and attorney’s fees.

If you have been wrongfully terminated in La Verne, contact Miracle Mile Law Group to discuss your case. Our attorneys will evaluate the evidence, determine the applicable deadlines, and provide strategic representation to protect your career and financial security.