In California, wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for an illegal reason, including discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, or religion; retaliation for reporting harassment or unsafe conditions; or violation of public policy. Even in at-will employment, these protections apply. If you believe your firing was unlawful, you may have a strong legal claim.

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment, or that results in an adverse job action. This covers verbal comments, explicit messages, physical contact, and visual displays. Both coworkers and supervisors can be harassers. California’s FEHA protects all employees, regardless of gender or role.

Yes. California law requires employers to pay 1.5x your regular pay for all hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week, and double time after 12 hours in a day. Failing to pay earned overtime is a wage theft violation. You may be entitled to unpaid wages, interest, penalties, and attorney’s fees through a legal claim.

Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), you generally have three years from the date of the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the Civil Rights Department (CRD). After receiving a Right to Sue notice, you have one year to file a civil lawsuit. Deadlines vary by claim type, consult an attorney promptly to protect your rights.

Yes. California law explicitly protects workers regardless of immigration status. Undocumented employees have the same rights as any other worker under the FEHA, California Labor Code, and workers’ compensation laws. Fear of immigration consequences should not prevent you from asserting your legal rights. Accident Defenders handle all consultations with complete confidentiality and without judgment.