California apartment managers are critical in maintaining residential properties, handling tenant issues, and ensuring that daily operations run smoothly. However, despite their dedication, many apartment managers find themselves wrongfully terminated due to employer retaliation, discrimination, or violations of labor laws.
If you believe you were fired illegally, you may have the right to take legal action against your employer. Here, the Los Angeles employment law attorney at Leichter Law Firm, APC, Aryeh Leichter, explains.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
In California, employment is generally at-will, meaning employers can fire employees for almost any reason—except illegal ones. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an apartment manager in violation of state or federal laws.
This can include:
- Retaliation: Firing an employee for reporting labor law violations, unsafe conditions, or tenant harassment.
- Discrimination: Terminating an employee based on pregnancy, disability, race, gender, age, or other protected characteristics.
- Wage and Hour Disputes: Firing an apartment manager for questioning unpaid overtime, improper wage deductions, or being misclassified as an exempt employee.
- Refusal to Engage in Illegal Activities: Dismissing an employee who refuses to engage in unlawful practices, such as unfair tenant treatment or falsifying reports.
You may have a valid wrongful termination claim if any of these apply to your termination.
Signs That Your Termination May Be Illegal
If you were fired under suspicious circumstances, consider the following warning signs:
- You were fired shortly after requesting medical leave, filing a wage claim, or reporting misconduct.
- Your employer gave vague, inconsistent, or false reasons for your termination.
- You were terminated without prior disciplinary action or warning.
- Other apartment managers with similar performance records were not fired.
If any of these apply to your situation, it’s essential to consult a wrongful termination attorney to explore your legal options.
Legal Protections for Apartment Managers in California
California labor laws and federal statutes provide strong protections for apartment managers.
Key laws that may protect you include:
- The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): Protects employees from discrimination and retaliation.
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Prevent termination due to taking protected medical or family leave.
- Wage and Hour Laws: Protects against firing for reporting unpaid wages, misclassification, or labor law violations.
- Whistleblower Protections: This prohibits firing employees for reporting illegal or unethical activities.
What to Do If You Were Wrongfully Terminated as a Residential Apartment Manager in California
If you believe you were fired illegally, take the following steps:
- Gather Evidence: Collect emails, performance reviews, pay records, and any documentation that supports your case.
- File a Complaint: You can report wrongful termination to the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- Consult a Wrongful Termination Attorney: A skilled Los Angeles employment lawyer can assess your case and help you seek reinstatement, back pay, or compensation for damages.
Speak with a Los Angeles Wrongful Termination Attorney Today
The Leichter Law Firm fights for apartment managers who have been wrongfully terminated. We can help you understand your rights and take legal action if you were fired unfairly. Contact Aryeh Leichter, the Leichter Law Firm, APC founder, and employment law attorney in Los Angeles County, to explore your options and pursue justice.