Los Angeles Employment & Wrongful Termination Lawyer
California employees are protected against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation under the Fair Employment and Housing Act, and against wage theft under the Labor Code. Most FEHA claims require filing an administrative complaint with the Civil Rights Department first, generally within three years of the conduct.
What we handle
Wrongful termination, discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics, retaliation for reporting unlawful conduct, unpaid overtime and missed meal and rest breaks, and final paycheck violations.
If you were also hurt on the job, a workers’ compensation claim and an employment claim can run at the same time and affect each other, so they should be coordinated.
Write it down now, not later
Keep copies of your schedules, pay stubs, performance reviews, texts, and emails while you still have access to them. Note dates, who was present, and what was said.
Documentation created at the time carries far more weight than a memory reconstructed a year later.
Working with a employment lawyer in Los Angeles
Our office is at 10850 Wilshire Blvd # 375 in Westwood, just off the 405 and a short drive from West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Century City, and Beverly Hills. Sam Schmuel handles cases throughout Los Angeles County.
We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay nothing up front and nothing at all unless we recover money for you. We speak English and Spanish, and we can come to you if you are still in the hospital or recovering at home.
If you're not sure where to start, just call us at (310) 601-7289. The consultation is free, and there's no fee unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as wrongful termination in California?
Firing an at-will employee is usually lawful, but not when the reason is discriminatory, retaliatory, or violates a specific statute or public policy.
How long do I have to bring a discrimination claim?
FEHA generally requires an administrative complaint with the Civil Rights Department within three years, followed by a lawsuit within one year of the right-to-sue notice.
Can I recover unpaid overtime?
Often yes, along with penalties in some cases. Wage claims can go to the Labor Commissioner or to court depending on the situation.
Can my employer retaliate for complaining?
Retaliation for protected complaints is unlawful and can be a separate claim even if the underlying complaint does not succeed.