Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Attorneys
Losing your job can be stressful, but when your termination is illegal, the situation becomes even more serious. If you believe you were fired unfairly, a skilled wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles at Holtz Matthews LLP can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. California has strong employee protection laws, and employers who violate them can be held accountable.
Our firm is dedicated to representing employees who have been wrongfully terminated. With decades of experience, we have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. Our team works diligently to investigate claims, build strong cases, and advocate for justice on behalf of our clients.
We offer:
- Contingency fees: You only pay our fee if we win.
- Free consultations: We’re ready to discuss your case.
- 24/7 availability: We recognize the urgency these matters often require.
- Virtual consultations: We adapt to your needs.
Call (818) 791-0555 to schedule a free consultation with a Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyer today.
We provide a trusted space to discuss your case openly, while also safeguarding your rights, maintaining your dignity and offering the legal expertise necessary to pursue justice.
What is Considered Wrongful Termination?
In California, "at-will" employment means that an employer can generally terminate an employee at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice. However, "at-will" is not a license for employers to break the law. A termination becomes "wrongful" when the reason for the firing violates a specific state or federal law, a public policy, or a breach of an existing employment contract.
Essentially, wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for a reason that is legally prohibited. This includes firing someone based on their protected characteristics (such as race or gender), firing someone in retaliation for reporting illegal activity (whistleblowing), or firing someone for exercising their legal rights (such as taking a protected medical leave).
Wrongful termination can take many forms, some overt and others highly subtle. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward seeking justice. Common examples include:
- Discrimination: Firing an employee based on protected categories including race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military/veteran status.
- Retaliation for Whistleblowing: If you reported your company for violating safety codes, committing tax fraud, or engaging in other illegal activities, and you were fired as a result, this is a clear case of wrongful retaliation.
- Sexual Harassment Retaliation: Being fired because you rejected a supervisor’s sexual advances or because you filed a formal complaint regarding a hostile work environment.
- Wage and Hour Disputes: If you complained about unpaid overtime, denied rest breaks, or being paid less than the minimum wage, and were subsequently terminated, your employer has likely violated the law.
- Violation of Leave Rights: Firing an employee for taking legally protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) for their own serious health condition or to care for a family member.
- Breach of Contract: If you have a written or implied contract that states you can only be fired for "good cause," and you are terminated without such cause, you may have a breach of contract claim.
-
"Michael is an outstanding attorney."
I have the highest regard for his capabilities.
Former Client -
"Michael is a true gem!"In the very first five minutes of our conversation about my case, it was evident that Michael is different. We hadn't even started, and Michael was on the case, so well prepared, and so familiar with every aspect of the situation. Michael's informed perspective and knowledge of the industry is clear in every assessment he makes, and his wealth of experience saved me from many potential disasters. I am truly grateful to Michael for his generosity, and for him patiently and clearly explaining the important strategic details that ensured the success of my case.Former Client
-
"Jordan is Extremely Helpful."We must have spoken to 7 different lawyers and Jordan had the best information and most concise plan of action. You can tell he is very knowledgeable in his field.Former Client
-
"Jordan is a skilled and enthusiastic lawyer that I have had the pleasure of working closely with."I recommend Jordan to anyone who is seeking legal advice in Entertainment.Fellow Attorney in Community
-
"Hard working, extremely diligent litigator"
Highest ethical and moral standards and someone who actually cares about his clients. In my experience, these are attributes often lacking from Los Angeles litigators.
Former Client
State & Federal Laws
California has some of the strongest worker protection laws in the United States. Our legal team leverages both state and federal statutes to build a robust case for our clients.
The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
The FEHA is the primary California law prohibiting harassment and discrimination in employment. It applies to public and private employers and provides broader protections than many federal laws. Under FEHA, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee based on a wide range of protected characteristics.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
This federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. It serves as a foundation for many wrongful termination suits across the country.
The California Labor Code
Several sections of the California Labor Code protect employees from retaliation. For example, Section 1102.5 is the general "whistleblower" protection statute, which prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report suspected violations of law to a government agency or a supervisor.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment, including termination. Employers are also required to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities unless it causes undue hardship.
-
$65M RESULT
Client was the primary witness for the Wall Street Journal expose, entitled, "Dozens of People Recount Pattern of Sexual Misconduct by Las Vegas Mogul Steve Wynn", resulting in $55 million in fines levied against the company, a $10 million fine against Steve Wynn, and his removal from the gaming industry. The Nevada Gaming Control Board also changed its rules governing gaming licensees.
-
$6.8M Result
Client was harassed and manipulated by high-level casino executives and forced to facilitate trafficking of women. The matter was resolved for a high seven-figure sum.
-
$2.5M Result
Client was groped and propositioned by a top-level executive of a large multi-national company. The matter was resolved for a multi seven-figure sum.
-
$2.4M Result
Client who worked for highly successful celebrity was discriminated against and harassed by company. The matter was resolved for multi seven-figure sum.
-
$2.1M Result
Client, a female executive for a major studio and production company, was harassed and sexually assaulted by her male superiors. The matter was resolved for a multi seven-figure sum.
What to Expect During a Wrongful Termination Case
Filing a lawsuit against a former employer can feel daunting. Understanding the process can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with legal action.
- Initial Consultation: We begin by listening to your story. We will review the circumstances of your firing, any employment contracts, and relevant communications (emails, texts, performance reviews).
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our firm will gather critical evidence, including personnel files, company handbooks, witness statements, and electronic data. We look for "pretext"—where an employer gives a "legal" reason for firing you (like poor performance) to hide their true, illegal motivation.
- Filing an Administrative Charge: In many cases, you must first file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) before you can file a lawsuit in court. We handle all aspects of this filing.
- Litigation and Discovery: Once a lawsuit is filed, both sides enter the "discovery" phase, where they exchange documents and take depositions (sworn testimony). This is where we build the strongest possible evidence for your claim.
- Mediation and Settlement: Many wrongful termination cases are resolved through mediation, a process where a neutral third party helps both sides reach an agreement. If a fair settlement is offered that covers your lost wages and emotional distress, we will help you evaluate it.
- Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our Los Angeles wrongful termination lawyers are skilled litigators who will present your case to a jury to fight for a verdict in your favor.
How We Can Help with Your Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Case
At Holtz Matthews LLP, we know wrongful termination can be overwhelming. We provide clear guidance and determined advocacy.
When someone in Los Angeles contacts us about wrongful or unlawful termination, we evaluate both the specific facts and the local context—from the employer’s industry and workplace policies to how similar matters have moved through courts in Los Angeles. This regional perspective helps us identify challenges and inform every step we take while supporting clients.
We can:
- Listen to your story: We take the time to understand your situation.
- Investigate your case: We gather evidence and review the facts of your termination.
- Advise you of your rights: We explain the laws and your options.
- Negotiate on your behalf: We communicate with the other party to seek a fair resolution.
- Litigate strategically: If necessary, we prepare your case for court.
Our firm regularly represents clients at the Los Angeles County Superior Court and supports individuals before state and local agencies. We adapt our strategies to each client, drawing on our knowledge of how outcomes may differ depending on the employer, industry, or location in the city.
Contact us online or call (818) 791-0555 today to schedule a free consultation with a wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles.
frequently asked questions
-
Can I sue my Los Angeles employer for wrongful termination if I was an at-will employee?
Yes, even if you were an at-will employee, you may still have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit. While at-will employment allows employers significant discretion in terminating employees, it does not give them a license to violate the law. If you were fired for discriminatory reasons, in retaliation for protected activities, or breach of an agreement, you may have a valid claim.
-
What damages can I recover in a wrongful termination case in Los Angeles?
Damages in a wrongful termination case can vary.
They can include compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Emotional distress
- Legal fees
-
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles?
At Holtz Matthews LLP, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
