If you have been wrongfully terminated from your job in Los Angeles, you have the option to seek justice. You can file a claim with the appropriate government agency, or skip the claim process and file a lawsuit. Hiring a wrongful termination lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of success.
Determine if you have a case
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer violates state or federal law when firing an employee. If your employer let you go you for reasons that were discriminatory, retaliatory, or in violation of your contract, you may have a case.
To build your case, document everything related to your termination, including emails, letters, and dates. Keep records of any conversations or actions that could be considered evidence of wrongful termination.
For example, if your employer treated you differently than other employees or called you a discriminatory name, you should document these occurrences.
Pieces of evidence that can be used to prove wrongful termination include direct evidence, such as a discriminatory statement made by your employer, and circumstantial evidence, such as your employer’s inconsistent explanations for your termination.
Proving wrongful termination can be challenging, so it’s essential to have experienced Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyers to help you navigate the legal process.
File a Formal Complaint Against your Employer
Before you can file a lawsuit, you must first file a formal complaint with the appropriate government agency. In California, you can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights System (CCRS) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Once filed, the department will issue a Right To Sue letter, allowing you to pursue your claims in court. If you contact Setareh Law Group before this process, the attorneys can handle this step for you.
Prove That Your Termination Was Unlawful
This step of the legal process proves that your termination was unlawful. The following are the stages you go through:
Discovery Process
This is the information gathering portion of a lawsuit. During the discovery process, both sides will exchange information and evidence relevant to the case. This may include documents, witness statements, and depositions. Your attorney will help you navigate this process and work with you to collect the necessary evidence to prove your case.
Dispute Resolution
Before trial, there is an opportunity to resolve the case through mediation or arbitration. Mediation is a non-binding process where a neutral third party helps both sides come to an agreement. Arbitration is a binding process where a neutral third party decides the outcome of the case.
Trial
If a settlement is not reached, the case will go to trial. Your attorney will present your case to a judge and jury, and the defendant will have the opportunity to defend themselves. It’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side to ensure that your case is presented effectively and that you have the best chance of success. Trial is a rare step in this process as the vast majority of cases reach settlement before making it to trial.
By working with an attorney, you can improve your chances of success in a wrongful termination lawsuit and receive damages for lost wages, benefits, emotional distress, and other losses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified employment attorney to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. With the right legal representation, you can achieve justice and move forward with your life.