There is a point at which relationships might break down between you and your employer. It is a simple fact of doing business: People sometimes lose their jobs. However, if you have a feeling that something was not quite right about your termination, you may find an ally in the California court system.
There are some situations in which termination could be a violation of your rights. When things become personal and a very specific way, your former employer could be liable in an unlawful termination suit. Here are some of the examples of situations that could mean you have a case.
Retaliation
One of the most unfair reasons for termination is for simply demanding a safer workplace. You may also find your employment terminated after reporting to the government about unlawful activity. Even wanting to receive a fair wage may incense some bosses.
You should also know that termination is not the only way that employers retaliate for these types of justified exercises of your rights. You could have a case on this basis even if you were still working at the offending company.
Discrimination
Discrimination based on a protected class is another possible basis for an unlawful termination suit. For example, if you were a woman of color who had seniority, a better work record and a more advanced educational background than one of your male peers in the same position, you would expect the company to let your peer go before you during downsizing. If your employer fired you first, that could be an indication that one or more of your protected classes were a factor in the staffing decision.
The California State Senate website has a full list of protected classes online. If your employer discriminated against you based on one of these, or if you had another type of unlawful termination, then seeking compensation via the courts may be a viable option.