Losing your job is stressful enough, but when it’s done unfairly or illegally, it can have serious consequences. Wrongful termination happens when an employer fires a worker for reasons that violate the law or public policy. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that their firing may have been illegal.
Here’s what you need to know about what counts as wrongful termination.
Discrimination-Based Firing
It’s illegal to be fired because of your race, gender, age (40+), religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or immigration status (in some cases). If your termination is based on any of these protected characteristics, it may be considered wrongful termination under federal or state laws.
Retaliation
If you were fired after reporting harassment, wage theft, unsafe working conditions, or any other illegal activity at work — that’s retaliation. And it’s against the law. Employers cannot punish you for standing up for your rights or participating in a legal investigation.
Violation of Employment Contracts
If you have a written or implied contract that promises certain job protections or conditions, and your employer fires you without honoring that agreement, it could be considered wrongful termination.
Firing for Taking Protected Leave
You cannot be legally fired for taking protected time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), or for taking sick leave, pregnancy leave, or time off for jury duty (depending on your state). If you were terminated during or after one of these absences, you may have a valid claim.
What You Can Do
If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, it’s important to speak with an employment attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation or even reinstatement.
At the Law Offices of Tatiana Hernandez, we fight for workers who’ve been treated unfairly — especially those from immigrant and low-income communities. We’ll listen, guide you, and help you take action.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
