Under California law, it is illegal for an employer to fire or retaliate against an employee for reporting unlawful conduct. Employees who report their employer’s illegal activities are protected by whistleblower laws designed to encourage transparency and accountability in the workplace.

Whistleblower Protections in California

California’s Labor Code Section 1102.5 is one of the most robust whistleblower protection laws in the country. It prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report suspected violations of local, state, or federal laws or regulations.

• Internal Reporting: You are protected if you report unlawful behavior to a supervisor or someone within the organization who has authority to investigate the issue.
• External Reporting: You are also protected if you report to a government agency, such as OSHA, the California Labor Commissioner, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
• Perceived Reporting: Even if you haven’t reported anything yet, but your employer believes you might or plans to, and retaliates against you, that may also be unlawful.

What Counts as Illegal Activities?

Protected reports may include, but are not limited to:

• Wage theft or unpaid overtime
• Health and safety violations
• Discrimination or harassment
• Fraud or financial misconduct
• Environmental violations

What Is Retaliation?

Retaliation can take many forms, not just termination. Examples include:

• Demotion or denial of promotion
• Reduced hours or pay
• Unwarranted disciplinary action
• Hostile work environment after the report

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Fired?

• Document everything, including dates of your report and any adverse actions taken against you.
• File a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department or the appropriate agency related to your case.
• Consult with an experienced employment attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.

Your Legal Options

If you were wrongfully terminated for whistleblowing, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and attorney’s fees. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. A lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and seek the justice you deserve.

Talk to a Whistleblower Attorney Today

At California Labor Law Employment Attorneys Group, we represent employees who have been wrongfully fired for doing the right thing. We offer free consultations and take all cases on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we win. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your rights.