San Diego Wrongful Termination Attorneys
Protecting the Rights of Unlawfully Fired Employees Since 2010
Being fired from your job can feel scary and overwhelming, especially when the grounds for the termination are unclear. If your employment was terminated for an unlawful reason, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, benefits, emotional distress, and other losses.
At JCL Law Firm, APC, we are dedicated to helping wrongfully terminated workers seek justice following discrimination, retaliation, and other illegal acts in the workplace. Whether you were fired for filing a complaint, taking medical or parental leave, or joining a labor union, our attorneys can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our wrongful termination lawyers prepare every case for trial and have proven results in employment law cases, underscoring our ability to secure favorable outcomes for workers from all backgrounds and walks of life. Our personalized approach and exclusive focus on employee rights set us apart.
If you were fired for an unlawful reason in San Diego, our lawyers can diligently seek justice. Call (619) 848-3368 to schedule a free consultation.
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How Long Do I Have to Report Wrongful Termination?
Filing a timely wrongful termination claim is critical to protecting your right to compensation. The timeframe depends on the reason for the wrongful termination and the type of claim being filed. For example, discrimination or harassment complaints must be filed with the Civil Rights Department (CRD) within three years, while EEOC claims must be filed within 180–300 days.
If you plan on filing a lawsuit, the CRD must issue a right-to-sue notice before you can take your claim to court. We can advise you on the best approach for your specific claim, help you navigate the specific statutes and deadlines that apply to your case, and uphold your rights at each stage of the legal proceedings, from filing a complaint to representing your best interests in litigation if needed.
What Compensation Is Available for Wrongfully Terminated Employees?
Wrongfully terminated employees may be entitled to various forms of compensation, such as lost wages, job search costs, lost benefits, emotional distress, legal fees, and other losses. Seeking legal guidance is paramount to pursuing the maximum recovery available to you under state and federal law. Our attorneys can identify potential damages and advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects your losses.
Can I File a Wrongful Termination Claim if I Was Fired for Using Earned Sick Leave?
Yes. Being terminated for using sick or “Safe Time” leave can support a wrongful termination claim under local wage and leave laws. Our lawyers are well-versed in the city’s labor standards to help you gather evidence and build a robust case that clearly documents the unlawful act.
Can I Be Fired for Whistleblowing?
It is illegal to retaliate against a whistleblowing employee under the California Whistleblower Protection Act (CWPA). Violations may require employers to reinstate the employee’s employment and benefits, pay lost wages, and face civil penalties (including up to $10,000 per employee for each violation) under Labor Code § 1102.5. If you were fired for whistleblowing, we can review your situation, document and preserve key evidence, file complaints with the appropriate state or local agencies, and pursue lost wages, benefits, and other damages you may be entitled to.
In Their Own Words
Five-Star Client Reviews
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“JCL Law Firm was easy to work with. This is a firm I would feel comfortable working with again based on their level of service, responsiveness and professionalism.”- Terry C.
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“I can honestly say they’ve been amazing every step of the way. The entire team is professional, kind, and truly cares about their clients.”- Porsche L.
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“Their hard work, professionalism, and patience paid off in the end. JCL Law firm was great at communicating and explaining every step of the way!”- Priscilla E.
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“JCL handled my case when no one else would. They listened to my concerns, solved the matter professionally, and they're very communicative.”- Former Client
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“They are so kind and so considerate, they go above and beyond and always make sure things get done. They'll make sure you get the best deal you can.”- Nathaniel N.
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“JCL Law Firm has been very professional representing my case. I am very satisfied with the settlement. Great team, customer service, communication, and follow-up.”- Former Client
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“Their team has been remarkable throughout my process and I am so happy with my settlement. Thank you for your great customer service and results.”- Laelah G.
Building Cases That Hold Up
Millions Awarded. We Show Up Ready to Win.
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$7 Million Class Action Settlement
Class action settlement filed in Sacramento for non-exempt health care providers at California kidney care treatment centers.
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$6 Million Class Action Settlement
Settlement filed on behalf of restaurant service staff employed by national chain for missed meal and missed rest periods, unpaid service charges and miscalculated overtime.
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$4 Million Class Action Settlement
Settlement filed on behalf of grocery store employees employed by national grocery outlet for miscalculated shift premiums and off the clock work.
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$2.5 Million Class Action Settlement
Settlement filed in Napa County on behalf of California piece-rate laborers employed by a farm labor contractor.
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$2 Million Class Action Settlement
Settlement filed on behalf of non-exempt nonprofit employees employed in California for missed meal and rest periods and off the clock work.
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$2 Million Class Action Settlement
Filed in Los Angeles on behalf of California based behavior health therapists for off the clock work.
Can My Boss Fire Me for Rejecting Sexual Advances?
No. State law protects employees from gender discrimination and retaliation based on gender, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or pregnancy, meaning it is illegal to terminate, demote, or retaliate against an employee for rejecting sexual advances or harassment. If you were fired for rejecting sexual advances in the workplace, our attorneys can fight to hold your employer accountable.
Does My Employer Have to Hold My Job if I’m Caring for a Sick Family Member?
If you’re caring for a sick family member with a serious health condition, your employer must provide job-protected leave under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). Workers are also federally protected under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Both the CFRA and FMLA include up to 12 weeks per year and require employers to reinstate employees to the same or comparable jobs. The only exception is limited circumstances unrelated to the leave, such as layoffs.
Our goal is to hold employers responsible for meeting their obligations under the law. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights, document violations, and take legal action if your job or benefits are threatened due to taking protected family leave.
Standing up to an unlawful employer can be daunting, but you don’t have to fight alone. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.
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Working for You As A Team
At JCL, you get a coordinated team working your case, backed by trusted analysts and consultants.
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Start with a Virtual Consult
Meet with our employment lawyers during a no-cost virtual consultation from wherever you are.
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Built for the Bigger Fight
We know how to turn widespread wrongdoing into high-impact cases that actually force change.
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Preparation Is the Advantage
When other firms react, we prepare. Our cases are built early, organized carefully, and always ready for trial.