PG&E Wrongful Termination Lawyer

Why You May Need to Hire an Employment Lawyer

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is one of the largest utility companies in the United States, providing natural gas and electricity to millions of customers across Northern and Central California. Founded in 1905, PG&E has grown into a major player in the state’s energy sector, employing around 23,000 workers.

PG&E has been involved in multiple high-profile controversies in recent years. The Oakland-based company has faced lawsuits related to its role in California wildfires, infrastructure failures and safety violations. These legal issues have created a complex corporate environment that can be difficult for employees to navigate.

Being wrongfully terminated is a distressing experience, especially if you suspect you have been subjected to unlawful treatment. At a company as large as PG&E, employees may feel powerless against the system. However, California law provides strong protections for workers, and hiring an Oakland employment lawyer is the first step in obtaining justice.

Understanding Employee Rights Under California Law

California is an “at-will” employment state, meaning that employers can terminate workers without cause, but this does not give them the right to break the law when doing so. Employees are protected from wrongful termination under several laws, including:

• Anti-discrimination laws: Employers cannot terminate employees based on race, gender, age, disability or other protected characteristics under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.
• Retaliation protections: Workers cannot be fired in retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting illegal conduct in the workplace.
• Wage and hour violations: Firing an employee for complaining about unpaid wages, overtime issues or violations of the California Labor Code is illegal.

Knowing your rights is the first step toward standing up to wrongful termination. A skilled employment lawyer can help you understand your legal protections as a worker in California.

How Wrongful Termination May Occur at PG&E

Wrongful termination can take place in different ways. Here are some examples of scenarios in which a worker’s firing may be based on unlawful reasons:

• Retaliation for whistleblowing: Given PG&E’s history of regulatory scrutiny and safety concerns, employees who report illegal or unsafe practices may face retaliation. Wrongful termination could occur if a worker is fired for whistleblowing, such as reporting violations related to safety protocols, environmental regulations or financial misconduct. California law protects whistleblowers, and firing someone for exposing company wrongdoing is unlawful.
• Retaliation for wage and hour complaints: If an employee raises concerns or files complaints about wage violations, unpaid overtime or other labor law issues and is fired, this could be considered wrongful termination. PG&E is required to adhere to California’s strict wage and hour laws, and retaliating against employees who assert their rights is illegal.
• Discrimination-based termination: Wrongful termination may occur if a worker is fired based on their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability or other personal characteristics protected under the law. For example, if a longtime employee over 50 is terminated and replaced by a younger, less experienced worker, it could be considered age discrimination.
• Violation of leave rights: PG&E workers are entitled to certain job protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act and the California Family Rights Act. If an employee takes a legally protected leave, such as for pregnancy or medical reasons, and is terminated during their leave, it may constitute wrongful termination.

Determining whether your termination was lawful may not always be straightforward. Consulting with an employment lawyer can help clarify the circumstances of your firing from PG&E and what legal steps can be taken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Termination

1. What is considered wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination, harassment, retaliation or violation of employment contracts. Even in an “at-will” state like California, your employer cannot violate state or federal laws when terminating your employment.

2. How do I prove wrongful termination?

Proving wrongful termination requires showing evidence that you have been subjected to unlawful acts such as discrimination or retaliation. Documents like emails, performance reviews and witness statements can help strengthen your claim. An experienced employment attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case against your employer.

3. Can I sue PG&E for wrongful termination?

If you believe your termination was unlawful, you can pursue a lawsuit against PG&E. However, consulting with an employment attorney is crucial in determining whether your situation meets the legal criteria for wrongful termination. It is also important to act quickly, as there are time limits for filing employment claims.

Have You Experienced This at Work?

Do you suspect PG&E wrongfully terminated you? If so, we would like to talk with you about your experiences. Erlich Law Firm is investigating PG&E for potential wrongful termination of employees. If you were fired from PG&E for unlawful reasons, you may have a case and be entitled to compensation. 

Due to the company’s size, influence and the legal challenges it faces, PG&E often uses aggressive teams of lawyers who are ready to fight any claims. As a result, it is essential for employees to have proper legal representation if they believe they have been wrongfully terminated. Your employment lawyer should have a track record of obtaining successful results for clients, even when going up against powerful employers.

Speak with an Oakland Employment Lawyer at Erlich Law Firm Today

Wrongful termination cases are complex. Discussing your situation with an attorney who understands California’s employment laws can ensure you receive proper legal advice.

Oakland employment lawyer Jason Erlich has extensive experience handling wrongful termination cases. He knows how to stand up to large corporations and hold them accountable. If you suspect PG&E fired you based on unlawful reasons, contact Erlich Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights.