Employment Law Lawyer
If you suspect that you have been terminated for an illegal reason, then it is recommended that you find a lawyer who is experienced in handling these matters as soon as possible. Being let go from your job can feel hurtful, but it may not be grounds for taking legal action. A lawyer can assess your situation and inform you of your options. If your circumstances make you eligible for filing a wrongful termination lawsuit, your lawyer can guide you through every step of the way.
What Is Considered Wrongful Termination?
Depending on the state, it may be acceptable for an employer to fire employees at any time, for whatever reason, or no reason at all. But, what they cannot do is fire an employer for an unlawful reason. Examples of illegal reasons to fire someone include:
- Race
- Sex or gender
- Religion
- Age (40+)
- Disability
- Ethnicity
- Gender identity
- Sexual orientation
- Gender expression
- Pregnancy
An employer cannot dismiss a worker as means to punish him or her for engaging in an activity that is protected by law. For instance, if you were injured, filed a workers compensation claim, and then was fired, it may have been retaliation.
Protecting Your Rights
If you may have been a victim of wrongful termination and are interested in seeking justice for what happened, you must act promptly. If you wait too long, your case may not be as strong as it could have been had you responded immediately. To protect your rights, your lawyer may suggest taking these steps:
- Documenting events related to your employment, such as incidents of discrimination or harassment
- Copies of performance reviews that were unfounded
- Getting a copy of your employee personal file
- With assistance from a lawyer, writing a formal complaint to your employer via certified letter, fax, or email
Those who are out of a job and worry that they may have been wrongfully let go are encouraged to talk with a dedicated legal team near them. All claims of wrongful termination are subject to time frame restrictions. Do not hesitate to bring your case to the attention of a seasoned lawyer, such as an employment law lawyer in Schaumburg, IL from Bott & Associates, LTD.