Being fired from a job could leave anyone feeling dazed and confused. In such a situation, it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions. At first, you may feel shock and embarrassment. Often a termination is the result of some sort of shortcoming, and no one wants to feel like they were doing a substandard job. But if you have been dismissed from a job, it is also important to look at the situation objectively and ask yourself if the termination was justified.
When assessing your dismissal, there are many factors that you want to consider. For instance, was the matter handled according to the pre-established standards of the workplace? If you can, take a look at your employee handbook and read over the policies regarding disciplinary actions and terminations. Did your employer follow the prescribed procedures or was there a deviation? If the matter was handled in a manner contrary to the written policies, you may have the basis for a wrongful termination claim.
An employer’s failure to follow written procedures is not the only reason you may be able to seek legal redress for a firing. There is also a myriad of laws that protect you from discriminatory practices or retaliation on behalf of your employer. And if you are able to prove that you were wrongfully terminated, you may be able to receive compensation for back pay, front pay and compensatory damages. You may also be able to receive reinstatement.
But proving a wrongful termination typically requires the aid of experienced legal representation. Therefore, if you suspect that you were unjustly fired, you may want to discuss your situation with a California employee rights attorney.