When To Hire A Workers’ Compensation Retaliation Lawyer

Filing a workers’ compensation claim is supposed to protect you after a workplace injury, not put your job at risk. Unfortunately, some employers choose to punish or fire employees who file these claims. If you believe this has happened to you, it may be time to consult a workers’ compensation retaliation lawyer. Knowing your rights and recognizing the signs of unlawful retaliation can help you take action before the situation escalates further.

What Is Workers’ Compensation Retaliation?

Workers’ compensation laws in California enable injured employees to seek medical treatment and receive wage replacement without fear of employer retaliation. Retaliation occurs when an employer takes negative action against an employee for exercising this right. These actions may include termination, reduced hours, demotion, or harassment in the workplace. Even subtle forms of retaliation, such as being excluded from meetings or suddenly written up for performance, may be illegal under California labor laws.

You do not need to prove that your employer admitted to retaliating. Instead, a pattern of unfair treatment shortly after you filed your claim may help establish that retaliation occurred. This is where having an experienced attorney on your side can make a major difference.

When Should You Hire A Lawyer?

If you notice changes in how your employer treats you after filing a workers’ comp claim, you should consider speaking with an attorney immediately. Timing matters. Waiting too long can make it more difficult to gather evidence, protect your rights, or recover lost wages.

Common red flags include being fired soon after filing a claim, receiving unjustified poor performance reviews, or suddenly being reassigned to less desirable duties. Even if you are still employed, retaliation can create a toxic environment that affects your health and well-being. In these cases, legal support can help you take the necessary steps to protect yourself.

Additionally, if your employer is trying to make you feel guilty for filing a claim or discouraging you from seeking medical care, this may also qualify as retaliation. It is important to remember that you have the right to recover from a workplace injury without being mistreated for it.

How A Lawyer Can Help

A workers’ compensation retaliation lawyer can review your situation, explain your rights, and help you build a strong case. Legal representation may be essential for holding your employer accountable and securing fair compensation. In some cases, you may also be eligible for reinstatement, back pay, or additional damages under California law.

At Sirmabekian Law Firm, we are dedicated to safeguarding the rights of workers throughout California, including those of undocumented employees. Our team is experienced in handling retaliation and wrongful termination cases and is ready to act quickly on your behalf. We offer free consultations and never charge up-front fees. You can explore more about how we help with retaliation and wrongful termination on our website.

If you suspect retaliation after filing a workers’ compensation claim, do not wait. Reach out to us so we can help you protect your rights and seek justice.