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What are California's laws regarding termination of employment?

California is an "at-will" employment state, which means that an employer or employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time for any reason, as long as it is not discriminatory or in violation of an express or implied contract.

However, there are several exceptions to this general rule. Employers cannot terminate employees on the basis of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or pregnancy status. Additionally, employers cannot retaliate against employees who engage in protected activities, such as reporting discrimination or harassment, filing a workers' compensation claim, or engaging in union activities.

California also has several laws that regulate the termination process. For example, an employer must provide written notice to an employee at least 60 days prior to a mass layoff or plant closure affecting 50 or more employees. Employers also cannot terminate employees for taking time off to serve on a jury or vote, or for engaging in political activities outside of work.

If an employer violates any of these laws or exceptions, the employee may have a legal claim for wrongful termination. In such cases, the employee may be entitled to damages such as lost wages, benefits, and attorney's fees.

If you believe your employment was terminated in violation of California's laws, it is important to contact an experienced employment lawyer who can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing legal action. They can review the specific details of your case and provide tailored advice that is relevant to your situation.