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Wrongful Termination Checklist

A step-by-step checklist to organize facts after a firing—or a forced resignation—in California.

Capture the basics

Write down your hire date, job title, manager names, last day worked, and the stated reason for termination. Save the termination letter, emails, texts, performance reviews, and any severance or release offer—unsigned until you understand what you would give up.

Look for unlawful motives

Ask whether the firing followed a discrimination complaint, harassment report, wage complaint, safety or fraud report, medical leave, accommodation request, or refusal to break the law. Timing, shifting explanations, and how similarly situated coworkers were treated often matter more than a polished HR narrative.

Evidence to preserve

Export work emails you lawfully possess, photograph schedules or time records, list witnesses, and keep medical notes tied to leave or disability. Do not take confidential trade-secret files you are not entitled to keep—ask counsel what is lawful to retain.

Deadlines and next moves

Agency and lawsuit deadlines can be measured in months, not years. Review our wrongful termination overview and limitations guide, then get a consultation before signing a release.

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Common questions

Answers we give on every page before you call. More detail is on our full FAQ page.

Do I have a case?

If you faced discrimination, harassment, retaliation, unpaid wages, wrongful termination, leave denial, or a refused disability accommodation, you may have claims. Whether your facts support a case depends on the evidence, deadlines, and applicable law—we evaluate that in consultation.

How much does it cost?

Initial consultations are typically free. If we take the matter, fees are usually explained in a written agreement before you hire us. Many employment cases are handled on contingency (see below).

Do you work on contingency?

In many employment matters, yes—attorney fees may be collected only if there is a recovery, subject to a signed fee agreement. Costs and fee arrangements can vary by case type; we confirm the terms up front.

How long will my case take?

Some matters resolve in months; contested lawsuits can take a year or longer through discovery, mediation, arbitration, or trial. Timing depends on the claims, court or arbitrator calendars, and whether the other side fights. See how long employment lawsuits take.

What should I bring?

Bring or upload what you have: a short timeline, pay stubs or time records, emails and texts, write-ups or reviews, medical or leave paperwork, and the names of witnesses or managers. See our documentation guide.

Free consultation?

Yes—initial consultations are typically free and confidential. Contacting us does not create an attorney–client relationship until there is a signed written agreement.

What happens after I contact you?

Our intake team reviews what you send, follows up if we need more detail, and screens deadlines and claim types. If the matter may be a fit, we schedule a consultation to discuss options, risks, and next steps—or we let you know promptly if we cannot help.