Bankruptcy
If you’re an employee, you might have heard the term “wrongful termination” thrown around before. But what exactly does it mean, and when does it apply? This FAQ will provide answers to some common questions related to wrongful termination. Read on to see what you should do in the event of a wrongful termination, and see how a lawyer can help to ensure that losing your pay does not lead to bankruptcy.
- What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination is when an employer fires an employee for reasons that violate the law or a contract. This means that not every termination is wrongful – most employment is “at-will,” which means that employers and employees can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, as long as it’s not illegal or in violation of a contract.
- What Makes A Termination Wrongful?
As an employment litigation lawyer like our friends at Eric Siegel Law can explain, a termination is considered wrongful if it violates the law or a contract. For example, if you have a contract with your employer and they fire you without fulfilling their end of the bargain, that could be considered wrongful termination. Similarly, if your employer fires you for refusing to do something illegal or for discriminatory reasons, that would also be wrongful termination.
- What Does Wrongful Termination Mean For A Former Employee?
Wrongful termination can have a significant impact on an employee’s life. It can result in the loss of income, benefits, and potentially damage an employee’s reputation. It can also cause emotional distress and uncertainty, especially if the employee was not expecting to be terminated.
- What Are Some Examples Of Wrongful Termination?
As mentioned earlier, some examples of wrongful termination include breach of contract, refusing to do something illegal, and discrimination. Take a closer look at some of these wrongful terminations:
- Breach of contract: If you have a contract with your employer that outlines the terms and conditions of your employment, and your employer terminates your employment without fulfilling their contractual obligations, you may have a case for wrongful termination.
- Retaliation: If you report illegal or unethical behavior to your employer or to the authorities, and your employer terminates your employment in retaliation, that would be considered wrongful termination.
- Discrimination: Federal and state laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and other factors. If your employer fires you for discriminatory reasons, such as because of your race or gender, that would be considered wrongful termination.
- Whistleblowing: If you report illegal or unethical behavior by your employer to the authorities, and your employer terminates your employment in retaliation, that would be considered wrongful termination.
- What Can An Employment Lawyer Do If I’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated?
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, it’s essential to contact an employment lawyer. An employment lawyer can help you determine if you have a case for wrongful termination and assist you in building a strong case. They can also help you negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit on your behalf to get the compensation you deserve.
In conclusion, wrongful termination is a serious matter that can have long-lasting effects on an employee’s life. It’s important to know your rights as an employee and to contact an employment lawyer if you suspect that you’ve been wrongfully terminated. With the help of an experienced attorney, you can fight for your rights and get the compensation you deserve.