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- Written by: Mo Eldessouky — California employment trial lawyer and founder of Eldessouky Law; recognized in the Top 10 Labor & Employment Verdicts in California (2024) for his role in securing a $34.7M defamation and wrongful termination verdict against Walmart; with over a decade of proven results in cases involving harassment, discrimination, wage & hour, and other workplace violations
- Focus: Practical guidance based on California law and real case outcomes
- Recognized by: Eldessouky Law has been featured in major news publications such as USA Today and CBS News for our commitment to protecting California employees and securing significant legal victories
- Last updated: August 2024
In California, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim, as protected by California Labor Code Section 132a. Workers’ compensation provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured at work, and employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for exercising this right. Wrongful termination in this context occurs when an employee is fired, demoted, or otherwise discriminated against for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, harassment, or negative evaluations. If an employee believes they have been wrongfully terminated, they should document all relevant interactions, file a complaint with the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) and the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), and seek legal advice to explore the possibility of a lawsuit. Remedies for wrongful termination may include reinstatement, back pay, damages, and attorney’s fees. For assistance, contact Eldessouky Law to protect your rights.
