Disability-Based Wrongful Termination Attorney in Pasadena
At Romero Law, APC our Pasadena employment attorneys frequently handle cases where employees face termination due to their disabilities or medical conditions. While California provides robust protections for disabled workers, many employers still engage in discriminatory termination practices, often attempting to disguise their illegal actions for seemingly legitimate reasons.
Contact us now at (626) 396-9900 or through our online form to request your free consultation.
When Disability and Wrongful Termination Intersect
Disability-based wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee because of their:
- Physical or mental disability
- Need for reasonable accommodations
- Use of medical leave
- History of disability or perceived disability
- Association with someone who has a disability
Common Scenarios Leading to Unlawful Termination
Our attorneys regularly encounter several patterns in disability-based wrongful termination cases:
Termination Following Accommodation Requests
Some employers terminate employees shortly after they request reasonable accommodations, often claiming unrelated performance issues or business needs. This timing can be a strong indicator of discriminatory intent.
Medical Leave Retaliation
While employers cannot legally terminate employees for taking protected medical leave, some attempt to do so by:
- Eliminating positions during leave
- Creating new performance standards upon return
- Claiming business restructuring
- Finding fault with work completed before leave
Failed Interactive Process
California law requires employers to engage in a good faith interactive process to identify reasonable accommodations. Termination without properly engaging in this process may be unlawful, especially when:
- Employers refuse to discuss accommodation options
- Accommodation requests are dismissed without consideration
- Alternative positions are not explored
- Medical documentation is ignored
Protecting Your Rights Before and After Termination
If you have a disability and are concerned about potential termination, take these protective steps:
Document Everything
- Keep copies of medical documentation submitted to your employer
- Save all emails and communications about your disability
- Record dates of accommodation requests and responses
- Maintain performance reviews and feedback
- Note any changes in treatment after disability disclosure
Know Your Rights
Under California law, you have the right to:
- Request and receive reasonable accommodations
- Take protected medical leave when eligible
- Work in an environment free from disability discrimination
- File complaints without fear of retaliation
- Engage in an interactive process for accommodations
Special Considerations in Disability Termination Cases
Proving Discriminatory Intent
Employers rarely admit to disability discrimination. Our attorneys look for evidence such as:
- Sudden changes in performance evaluations
- Inconsistent application of company policies
- Comments about disability or medical conditions
- A pattern of replacing disabled employees
- Failure to provide documented accommodations
Understanding “Reasonable Accommodation”
Before terminating a disabled employee, employers must demonstrate that:
- No reasonable accommodation would enable job performance
- The employee poses a direct threat to health or safety
- Accommodating would cause genuine undue hardship
Legal Remedies for Disability-Based Wrongful Termination
Successful cases may result in compensation for:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Future earnings impacts
- Emotional distress
- Medical expenses
- Career rehabilitation
- Punitive damages in cases of willful discrimination
When to Contact Our Attorneys
Seek immediate legal counsel if:
- You were terminated shortly after disclosing a disability
- Your employer refused to discuss accommodations
- You were fired while on medical leave
- Your termination followed accommodation requests
- Performance issues arose only after disability disclosure
Why Choose Romero Law for Your Case
Our approach to disability-based wrongful termination cases combines a deep understanding of both disability and employment law with extensive experience handling complex medical documentation. We bring a strategic approach to proving discrimination, backed by our firm commitment to workplace accessibility and a proven track record of successful outcomes. Our attorneys understand the intricate interplay between disability rights and employment law, allowing us to build compelling cases that address both the legal and human aspects of workplace discrimination.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you believe your termination was related to your disability or medical condition, contact our Pasadena employment attorneys at (626) 396-9900. Our bilingual staff provides services in English and Spanish, and we offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case.
We understand the devastating impact of losing your job while managing a disability or medical condition. Our attorneys will fight aggressively to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.