Q: I asked to borrow a lighter while working as a custodian at a school. I was fired. Can they do that.
A: Under California law, employers generally have the right to terminate an employee's employment for any reason, as long as it is not discriminatory or in violation of specific employment contracts or laws. In the situation you described, if your employer decided to terminate your employment for the simple act of asking to borrow a lighter, it may seem disproportionate or unfair. However, without further context or information, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional who can evaluate the specific details of your case and provide accurate advice based on the circumstances. They will be able to assess whether any employment laws were violated and guide you on the best course of action.
A: You didn't say if this was a private or a public school, and it makes a difference. Assuming it was a public school, you are a Classified employee and most likely all classified employees in the district have a CBA or MOU that governs their employment. You need to get the union to file a grievance on your behalf. This falls within the scope of Public employees rights. You should contact an attorney that handles this kind of case. Thank you for using Justia, ask a lawyer.
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