Ventura County Employment Lawyers Representing Police Officers

What types of legal issues do you help police officers resolve?

Law enforcement is a difficult profession with a strong culture of loyalty and chain of command. Unfortunately, that culture sometimes allows unlawful behavior to go unchecked. Officers who report problems or push back against discrimination often find themselves targeted for retaliation. At McNicholas & McNicholas, we help Ventura County police officers navigate a wide range of employment law challenges, including the following.

Discrimination

California law prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. Yet, discriminatory practices still exist in law enforcement agencies. We've represented officers who were:

• Passed over for promotion due to bias
• Denied assignment to specialized units
• Subjected to different standards than their peers
• Excluded from training or leadership opportunities

Discrimination can be subtle or overt. Either way, it's illegal, and we can help you fight back.

Harassment

Law enforcement workplaces should be professional and respectful. Sadly, many officers face harassment from colleagues or supervisors. This can include:

• Sexual harassment
• Racial slurs or derogatory jokes
• Bullying, hazing, or intimidation
• Hostile or abusive behavior

If you've reported harassment and your department failed to act, or worse, retaliated against you for speaking up, you may have a strong legal claim.

Retaliation for reporting misconduct

Police officers who report unlawful behavior or policy violations are legally protected from retaliation. But in many cases, whistleblowers face serious consequences, like:

• Sudden negative performance reviews
• Denial of backup or unsafe assignments
• Transfer to a less desirable beat
• Suspension or termination

Retaliation is one of the most common employment law violations we see in law enforcement. We know how to hold agencies accountable.

Denial of due process

As a peace officer, you have specific rights under the Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Rights Act (POBRA), including:

• Notice before an investigation
• The right to representation during questioning
• Access to investigative materials before a hearing
• Time limits on disciplinary actions

Many departments violate these rules, either due to a lack of training or willful disregard. We know how to enforce your rights under POBRA and ensure you're treated fairly.

Wrongful termination

Being fired or forced to resign for unlawful reasons is emotionally and professionally devastating. If you believe your termination was connected to protected activity (like reporting discrimination or refusing to falsify a report), you may have a claim for wrongful termination.

We also handle constructive discharge cases, where an officer is pushed to resign due to intolerable working conditions created by the employer.

Mental health discrimination

Police work can take a great mental toll. Officers dealing with PTSD, anxiety, or depression often face stigma instead of support. Departments may:

• Refuse to accommodate medical restrictions
• Force officers off duty without justification
• Block return-to-work efforts
• Disclose private medical information

These actions can violate both California and federal law. If you're struggling to get fair treatment while managing your mental health, we can help.