In California, employment relationships are presumed to be at-will unless otherwise designated. Either party can terminate at-will employment at any time, for any reason that is not discriminatory or otherwise illegal. An at-will employment relationship can be modified in writing, verbally, or even through custom and practice. If the relationship has been modified, the employer may need to establish good cause for terminating the employee. Failure to establish good cause may be the basis for a wrongful termination claim.
However, under any circumstance, it is unlawful for an employee to be discharged as a result of their sex, age, race, ethnicity, religion, medical condition, or for opposing an illegal activity in the workplace. Termination on these bases will usually establish a claim for wrongful termination.
If you are an individual who believes you may have been wrongfully terminated or an employer seeking advice or representation, please do not hesitate to contact us our for more information.
