How to File a Wrongful Termination Suit
Being let go from your place of employment is always difficult, as it threatens your very livelihood. If you believe that the termination was unlawful, there may also be feelings of anger, frustration and helplessness. However, there are certain steps that can be taken, such as filing a wrongful termination suit.
- Check whether your state is an at-will state and what constitutes a wrongful termination. In an at-will state, an employer can terminate employment "at will" and legal recourse may be limited. However, even in these states there are certain grounds for filing wrongful termination, such as being fired because of disability or in retaliation for a filing a complaint against the employer.
- Contact an employees' rights attorney or labor lawyer as quickly as possible if you believe that you have been wrongfully terminated. Make an appointment to discuss your situation and present the supporting evidence that you've gathered. Your attorney will be able to discuss what your legal options are.
- Gather any records that you've personally kept regarding your employment. This should include notes regarding any situation that you believe to be related to your firing, such as incidences of harassment.
- Request a copy of your employee file. This will be also be useful when you meet with your attorney by allowing him to view documentation and other notes in your file. Not only will this help to give him a broader picture of the situation, but it may also help prove that you were wrongful terminated.
- Avoid negative interaction with your former employer. Refrain from returning to the workplace to avoid any confrontations.