Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Glendale, Burbank, and Pasadena

Holding Employers Accountable for Unlawful Firings Across California

Losing your job is stressful under any circumstances — but when you are fired for an illegal reason, it is more than unfair, it may be unlawful. California is an "at-will" employment state, which generally allows employers to end employment at any time. However, the law carves out important exceptions, and an employer can still be held liable when a termination crosses the line into wrongful termination. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated in Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, or anywhere in California, Tapanian Law, APC is ready to investigate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Is Wrongful Termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for a reason that violates the law, an employment contract, or an established public policy. Common examples include termination that is:

• Based on a protected characteristic, such as race, gender, age, disability, or pregnancy (see our workplace discrimination page)
• Retaliation for reporting discrimination, harassment, unsafe conditions, or wage violations (see our workplace retaliation page)
• In response to an employee taking legally protected medical, family, or pregnancy-related leave
• A violation of an existing employment contract or clearly established company policy
• Connected to an employee refusing to participate in illegal conduct
• Carried out because an employee exercised a legal right, such as filing a workers' compensation claim or serving on a jury

Signs Your Termination May Have Been Wrongful

It is not always obvious that a firing was unlawful. Warning signs can include:

• Being fired shortly after making a complaint or reporting misconduct
• Receiving inconsistent or shifting explanations for the termination
• Being treated differently than coworkers in similar situations
• Losing your job shortly after requesting leave or an accommodation
• Being fired despite a positive performance history

As a wrongful termination lawyer serving Glendale, Raffi Tapanian reviews the full context of your employment and termination, gathers documentation, and works to uncover the real reason behind your firing.

What You May Recover in a Wrongful Termination Claim

Employees who have been wrongfully terminated may be entitled to recover:

• Back pay for lost wages and benefits
• Front pay for future lost earnings
• Emotional distress damages
• Punitive damages in cases involving egregious employer conduct
• Attorney's fees and legal costs

Why Choose Raffi Tapanian

At Tapanian Law, APC, we represent employees only — never employers or corporations. Clients in Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, and throughout California trust Raffi Tapanian for:

• A thorough, strategic investigation into the true reasons behind your termination
• Direct, personal communication throughout your case
• A results-driven approach focused on maximizing your recovery
• No fees unless we win your case

Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights

Wrongful termination claims are subject to strict filing deadlines under California law. Acting quickly helps preserve important evidence, such as emails, performance reviews, and witness recollections, and strengthens your position from the start.