Many employees misunderstand the concept of being "protected" or engaging in a "protected" activity. The believe that just because they belong to a protected group of workers, they cannot be terminated under any circumstances under California law. This is not correct. Generally, "protected" means protected against being singled out, discriminated, retaliated or treated different because of being a member of the protected class. However, this protected employee status doesn't grant an employee absolute immunity from termination. The two major and very common examples where being a protected employee doesn't prevent an employer from terminating the same workers and doesn't violate the law are a legitimate lay-off or terminated for valid reason/cause.
For example, suppose you are an employee who sustained an injury and you requested and received an FMLA/CFRA Leave. While on leave, the employer found out that you stole merchandise or money from the company. The employer can easily and lawfully terminated you without violating the law, as the employer had a legitimate reason to terminate you, irrespective of your FMLA leave, and would have terminated you for theft, whether or not you requested and received the above medical leave.
In the alternative, if the employer decides to lay off a number of workers, including you, it will be legal if it complies with other laws regarding lay-offs and if you are not chosen for a lay-off among other employees, becuase of requesting leave or due to your medical condition.
