What to Do After You Have Been Wrongfully Terminated
Your Legal Rights Explained
Being wrongfully terminated can be a devastating experience, especially if you don’t know your legal rights. Unfortunately, it’s a situation that happens all too often, leaving workers confused and unsure of what to do next. That’s why it’s important to understand your legal rights when it comes to wrongful termination. Knowing how to protect yourself and exercise your rights can help you get the justice you deserve. This guide explains what steps to take to protect your legal rights when you feel you’ve been wrongfully terminated. Next Article.
What is wrongful termination?
Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is dismissed from their job due to circumstances that are unfair or unlawful. There are two types of wrongful termination: Wrongful termination in violation of public policy: This occurs when an employee is fired for exercising a public policy right. Examples include refusing to discriminate against another employee, or reporting sexual harassment. Wrongful termination in violation of an employment contract: This occurs when an employer fails to follow the terms of an employment contract. Click to Learn More.
Common signs of wrongful termination
There are a few common signs that you have been wrongfully terminated. These include:
False allegations. If your employer cites false reasons for firing you, this could be a sign that you have been wrongfully terminated.
You are let go for exercising your legal rights. If you are fired for exercising a legal right, such as taking time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act or filing a complaint against your employer, this could be a sign of wrongful termination.
You are fired under suspicious circumstances. If you are fired under suspicious circumstances, it could be a sign that you were wrongfully terminated. Often, employees are given a reason for dismissal, such as poor performance or misconduct. But if your employer gives you no reason or only vague reasons, he may be wrongfully terminating your employment.
The importance of documentation
One of the most important things you can do if you suspect you’re being wrongfully terminated is to document everything that happens. This can help you prove your case if you decide to file a lawsuit. It can also increase the chances of a settlement by giving your attorney more evidence to work with. There are a few key things you should document throughout this process:
Record your job performance. Keep track of your daily work activities, including your hours and anything that affects your performance. This can include problems with co-workers, equipment, or anything else that can affect your productivity.
Record your employer’s actions. Document any interactions you have with your employer. This can include interactions with human resources, your manager, or other employees.
Record your employer’s communications with you. If you are given a warning or written notice of dismissal, keep a record of it. If your employer communicates with you in any way, whether in writing, in an email, or even just a text message, keep a record of it.
Contact an employment attorney
As soon as you suspect you have been wrongfully terminated, you should contact an employment attorney. An employment attorney will help you explore your options and protect your rights throughout this process. Schedule a face-to-face meeting with your preferred attorney for a consultation. During this meeting, your lawyer will likely ask you a few questions about your experience, what happened, and how you hope this issue will be resolved. They’ll use this info to help you determine the best course of action moving forward.
Common mistakes to avoid
After you’ve been wrongfully terminated, there are a few common mistakes former employees that you need to be sure to avoid:
Don’t sign anything: As soon as you learn that you’re being terminated, avoid signing anything related to your employment or the termination itself. Doing so could be considered a settlement and can prevent you from filing a lawsuit.
Don’t talk to your employer: It can be tempting to try and clear the air with your employer after you’ve been terminated. However, you should refrain from talking to them altogether. Avoiding them can help you avoid saying something they can use as fodder in your case. It can also help you protect yourself from being manipulated or coerced into signing a settlement.
Don’t talk to your employer’s attorney: After you’ve been terminated, you may receive a call from your employer’s attorney. Avoid talking to them at all costs. Talking to your employer’s attorney could end up hurting your case and could be considered a settlement.
How an employment attorney can help
Once you’ve been wrongfully terminated, you may be unsure of how to proceed. As you’ve read, there are many things you can do to protect yourself and your rights. However, having legal representation can help streamline the process and give you more time to recover. A good employment attorney can help you in a number of ways, such as:
Reviewing your case: An employment attorney can review your case to determine if you have been wrongfully terminated. They can also help you understand your legal rights and the best way to protect them.
Assisting with negotiations: If you choose to negotiate your terms with your employer, it can be helpful to have an employment attorney by your side. Negotiations can be tricky, particularly if you are still reeling from the situation. Having an attorney on your side can make the process less stressful.
Exploring your legal options: If negotiations fail, your attorney can help you explore your legal options.Knowing how to protect yourself and exercise your rights can help you get the justice you deserve. Having an employment attorney by your side can help you navigate this process and come out with a better outcome.
