San Diego Wrongful Termination Lawyers
Are You in Need of a San Diego Wrongful Termination Attorney?
If you’ve recently lost your job and believe the reason for your termination was unfair or illegal, you may have a wrongful termination case. California has robust labor laws in place to protect employees from being fired unfairly. Did you know that California workers are protected from wrongful termination based on race, gender, disability, and other factors?
If you’re in San Diego and have been terminated for reasons like discrimination, retaliation, or another unlawful action by your employer, you don’t have to face this situation on your own. Talk to a San Diego wrongful termination lawyer to understand your rights and get the legal help you deserve.
Why Choose Us Over Other Wrongful Termination Lawyers in San Diego?
When you’re looking for a San Diego wrongful termination law firm, experience, knowledge, and dedication are must-haves. At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we are proud to be a trusted in San Diego. Our workplace termination lawyers have years of experience helping people just like you get justice.
Eugene Bruno & Associates: Wrongful Termination Law Firm Serving San Diego
- Our law firm offers a free initial case consultation.
- Our law firm has a 99.7% success rate, having recovered millions of dollars for our clients.
- Our attorneys have over 40 years of combined legal experience.
- Firm founder and lead attorney Eugene Bruno is part of National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
Do You Have a Wrongful Termination Claim?
In order for you to have a valid wrongful termination claim, you generally need to show that your employer broke the law in firing you. This could happen if you were fired for a reason that violates your rights under state or federal law, such as discrimination or retaliation.
Here are a few important factors that can help you determine if you have a wrongful dismissal case:
- Breach of contract: If you were fired for reasons that go against the terms of your employment agreement, you may have a case.
- Illegal reasons for firing: In California, it’s illegal to fire someone based on their race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Retaliation: If you were fired for speaking out about workplace safety issues, discrimination, or harassment, this could be retaliation, which is illegal.
- Loss of income: If being fired led to a loss of income, you may be entitled to recover those lost wages.
If you’re unsure whether your termination was unlawful, it’s a good idea to talk to a San Diego employment law attorney to discuss your case.
Let’s talk about your case and how we can help—call our law firm at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for a FREE case evaluation.
What Damages Can You Recover for Being Wrongfully Terminated?
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, you may be able to receive compensation for the harm caused by your job loss. This compensation is called damages, and the amount depends on the specific facts of your case. There are a few types of damages you might be able to recover.
Economic Damages
These damages cover the actual financial losses you experienced due to being fired. For example:
- Lost wages: If you lost income because of the wrongful termination, you may be entitled to compensation for that lost pay.
- Lost benefits: If you lost health insurance or other benefits after being fired, you could receive compensation for that as well.
- Job search expenses: You might be able to recover costs related to finding a new job, like resume services or travel costs for interviews.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the emotional impact of being wrongfully terminated. This includes emotional distress, so if your firing caused anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems, you may be able to recover damages for those effects.
Attorney Fees and Costs
In some cases, you may also be able to recover the costs of hiring an attorney to help with your case. This is especially true if your employer acted in bad faith or broke the law when firing you. A wrongful termination lawyer can help you understand the damages you may be able to recover and how they apply to your situation.
Types of Wrongful Termination Cases We Handle
There are many reasons why an employee might be wrongfully terminated. Below are some common situations where wrongful termination may occur. If any of them sound familiar, speak with a San Diego wrongful termination lawyer as soon as possible. They’ll be able to help you understand your rights and explore your options. Don’t let illegal actions go unchecked—get the legal support you deserve!
Workplace Harassment
If you were fired after experiencing harassment or being in a hostile work environment, you might have a case for wrongful termination.
Example: Sarah worked in an office for several years, but her new manager frequently made inappropriate jokes about her appearance. Sarah asked him to stop, but the harassment only worsened. When Sarah spoke up to HR, she was fired a few weeks later. Sarah believes her firing was due to the harassment she endured at work.
Pregnancy Discrimination
It’s illegal for employers to fire employees because they are pregnant or due to pregnancy-related medical conditions.
Example: Jessica worked as a nurse for a healthcare facility in San Diego. After telling her supervisor she was pregnant, she started to feel sidelined at work. She was assigned less important tasks, and shortly before her maternity leave, she was fired.
Disability Discrimination
Employers cannot fire employees because of a disability or their need for reasonable accommodations.
Example: Tom, a customer service representative, had a visual impairment. He informed his employer that he would need special equipment to continue his work. Despite this, Tom was fired a few months later, and he believes it was because of his disability.
Racial Discrimination
Employers cannot fire employees based on their race or ethnicity.
Example: Carlos, a Latino employee, was always punctual and exceeded expectations at his job in the sales department. However, after a new manager started, Carlos began receiving unfair treatment. Eventually, he was fired, and he believes it was because of his race.
Religious Discrimination
You cannot be fired for practicing your religion or for taking time off for religious holidays.
Example: Emily, a schoolteacher, follows her faith and requests time off during certain religious holidays. Her employer refused her request and later fired her, stating that her time-off requests caused “inconvenience.”
National Origin Discrimination
Employers cannot fire you based on your national origin or citizenship status.
Example: Ahmed, an immigrant from Syria, was employed as a project manager at a tech company. After his company downsized, he was let go. However, his coworkers, who were born in the U.S., were kept.
Wrongful Termination
If your firing violated state or federal law, it may be considered wrongful termination.
Example: Jake was fired from his job as a sales representative despite receiving excellent performance reviews. His employer cited “budget cuts” as the reason for his termination, but Jake suspects he was let go due to his age.
Workplace Retaliation
If you were fired for speaking out about illegal conduct or workplace safety, your firing may be retaliatory and unlawful.
Example: John noticed that his company was violating safety regulations in the workplace. After reporting the issue to his supervisor, John was unexpectedly fired without any clear explanation. John believes his firing was in retaliation for whistleblowing about unsafe practices. In California, retaliation for reporting workplace violations is illegal.
Whistleblower Protection
If you were fired after reporting illegal actions or unsafe working conditions, you may have a whistleblower claim.
Example: Lily worked as an accountant and discovered her company was committing fraud. She reported the issue to the authorities, but a few weeks later, she was let go.
What Are My Legal Rights as a Wrongfully Terminated Employee?
As an employee in San Diego, you have legal rights that protect you from unlawful termination. California law makes it illegal for employers to fire you for reasons like discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract. If you were fired for any of these reasons, you may be entitled to compensation. Consulting with a wrongful termination attorney can help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.
How a San Diego Wrongful Termination Attorney Can Help
A San Diego Wrongful Termination Lawyer can help you in many ways if you’ve been fired unfairly or illegally. Here’s how a skilled attorney can assist you:
- Provide guidance: Your attorney will explain your legal rights and help you understand how to file a wrongful termination claim.
- Offer support: You’ll have a dedicated lawyer supporting you throughout the process, from filing a claim to negotiating a settlement or going to court.
- Investigate your case: Your lawyer will collect evidence, interview witnesses, and investigate the facts to strengthen your case.
- Identify responsible parties: Your attorney will determine who is responsible for your wrongful termination and hold them accountable.
- Negotiate a fair settlement: Many wrongful termination cases are settled without going to court. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to get you the best possible settlement.
- Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court and fight for your rights.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Termination Claims in California?
In California, there is a time limit, called a statute of limitations, for filing a wrongful termination claim. If you don’t file your claim within this time frame, you could lose your chance to receive compensation. In most cases, you have two years from the date of your wrongful termination to file a claim, but this can vary.
If you believe your firing was illegal, don’t wait—it’s important to act quickly to make sure your evidence is fresh and witness memories are still clear. Let’s talk about your situation and take the next steps.
Contact Eugene Bruno & Associates at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to file your claim on time.
Typical Complaint Process for Wrongful Termination in California
The process of filing a wrongful termination claim in California usually involves the following steps:
- Consultation with an attorney: Your first step is to meet with a wrongful termination lawyer to review your case and get advice.
- Investigation: Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and gather the facts of your case.
- Filing a claim: Your attorney will file a claim either with a government agency or in court, depending on the situation.
- Negotiation: Many wrongful termination cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the other side to reach a fair settlement.
- Trial: If a settlement can’t be reached, your case will go to trial, where your lawyer will represent you in court.
What Our Clients Think About Our Services
“Extremely Helpful, Thorough, and Professional” – Beks (5-Star Yelp review)
I just got off the phone with Mr. Bruno and I wanted to post how impressed I was with his prompt response. He was extremely helpful, thorough, and professional in answering all of my questions and giving me advice […]. I’ve contacted at least a dozen other attorneys and Eugene was the first to answer so quickly and in such an impressive manner. I appreciate you, Eugene!
“Helped Me with the Steps I Should Take” – Stefany R. (5-Star Yelp review)
Eugene was really helpful when I needed someone to talk to. He helped me with the steps I should take due to the incident I had. Also want to mention that he was available to talk when I needed it the most and it didn’t bother him that I called him after work hours. I appreciate his help! Would strongly recommend.
“Mr. Bruno was Able to Turn a Near-Lost Situation Into a Profitable Gain” – Gary S. (5-Star Yelp review)
Mr. Bruno was able to turn a near-lost situation into a profitable gain. Knowledgeable, intelligent, personable, and professional. A great choice when looking for legal advice.
Other Locations We Serve Near San Diego
- Carlsbad
- Chula Vista
- Clairemont
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Mission Valley
- Oceanside
Ready for Us to Help with Your Wrongful Termination Case?
If you live in or near San Diego, contact Eugene Bruno & Associates today for a free case review at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688)—let’s discuss how our law firm can help with your wrongful termination case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Termination Claim in San Diego, California?
You generally have two years from the date of termination to file a wrongful termination claim. But this can vary. Consult a wrongful termination lawyer for more professional insight.
What Is the Difference Between Unfair Dismissal and Wrongful Termination?
Unfair dismissal usually refers to breaking the terms of an employment contract, while wrongful termination involves firing someone for illegal reasons.
Can I Sue My Employer for Wrongful Termination in California?
Yes, you can sue your employer if you were fired for an unlawful reason, such as discrimination or retaliation.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for Wrongful Termination?
You may be entitled to economic damages (like lost wages), non-economic damages (like emotional distress), and attorney fees.
Can I Still File a Wrongful Termination Claim If I Signed an At-Will Employment Contract?
Yes, even if you signed an at-will employment contract, which allows your employer to terminate you for any reason, you cannot be fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination, retaliation, or violation of public policy. A wrongful termination attorney can help you determine whether your termination was unlawful.
“I would highly recommend Eugene Bruno & Associates! They helped me out with a case of mine and everything worked out perfectly. I worked with Amir, one of the lawyers and he was amazing. Definitely would work with him again. Thank you!”
- Mona Hakim, Google Review“This people deserve more than 5 stars. I would highly recommend them to anyone.”
- Faisal A., Google Review“You will not be disappointed hiring these guys. Eugene Bruno & Associates are the best car accident lawyers in San Diego and I recommend them 100%!!”
- Adam C., Google Review“Take the time to speak with Mr. Bruno, he will definitely help you and guide you and make you feel like family! Best decision I have made, I went with the best. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!!”
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