How to Sue for Wrongful Termination
If you feel that you are a victim of wrongful termination by your employer, then you may have a case to take legal action. Research the employment laws for your state and seek legal counsel to see if filing a lawsuit is a feasible option for you.
- Analyze your situation. In order to determine whether or not you have been wrongfully terminated, you must find out if your rights have been violated. For instance, if you feel that you were a victim of discrimination, or if the contract of your employment was violated, these are both valid examples. You will need to explore the laws further.
- Determine if you were terminated because of taking certain actions. Some actions that you are protected under include the Family and Medical Leave Act, military service and jury duty. If you missed work because of any of these reasons and were terminated as a result, then you may have a case.
- Find out the state's "at will" laws. This term refers to the right that a company has to terminate employment at any time, for any reason. Many states implement this policy on some level, but there are also a number of variables that apply as well.
- Talk to a lawyer. Explain your situation to an attorney. Provide as much documentation as possible. This includes copies of employer contracts and statements from any co-workers.
- Take the next step. If an attorney feels that you have a case, he will begin the legal proceedings. From that point on, it is advisable that all communication remain between your lawyer and the former employer.