Wrongfully Terminated in California? Here's Exactly What to Do.

You just lost your job. Maybe it felt sudden. Maybe you saw it coming. Either way, you're asking the same question thousands of Bay Area workers ask every year: Was that legal?

California is an at-will employment state — which means your employer can generally fire you for any reason, or no reason at all. But "at-will" has limits. And those limits are where your rights begin.

What "At-Will" Doesn't Cover

Your employer cannot fire you for a reason that violates California law. That includes discrimination, retaliation, violation of public policy, or breach of contract.

The First 72 Hours Matter Most

1. Write everything down — now. Document the circumstances of your termination while they're fresh. 2. Do not sign anything without legal review. Employers often present severance agreements immediately after termination. 3. Understand your filing deadlines. California wrongful termination claims have strict deadlines — generally three years for CRD claims, 300 days for federal EEOC claims. 4. Request your personnel file. Under California Labor Code Section 1198.5, you have the right to inspect your personnel file within 30 days of a written request. 5. Call an attorney before you do anything else. A consultation costs you nothing.

If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, don't wait. Get your free consultation — and find out where you stand.