Being fired is difficult, but if your employer’s decision violates employment laws, it may be more than unfair—it could be illegal. Wrongful termination lawsuits protect employees from being dismissed for unlawful reasons, and with the right evidence, they can lead to significant compensation.
Wrongful termination happens when an employer fires an employee in violation of federal, state, or contractual laws. Common examples include discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, as well as retaliation for reporting workplace harassment or unsafe conditions. Even terminations disguised as “downsizing” can be illegal if they target a protected class or punish whistleblowers. An experienced wrongful termination lawyer can help determine if you have a valid claim.
Common Grounds for a Wrongful Termination Lawsuit
Some of the most frequent legal grounds include:
Employment Discrimination: Being fired because of your race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, or disability.
Workplace Retaliation: Termination for filing a complaint about harassment, discrimination, wage violations, or unsafe working conditions.
Breach of Employment Contract: Firing that violates terms outlined in an employment agreement.
Violation of Public Policy: Termination for refusing to break the law or for exercising a legal right, such as taking family medical leave.
How to Prove a Wrongful Termination Case
Evidence is key. Keep copies of your employment contract, company policies, performance reviews, and any written communication that supports your case. Emails, text messages, and witness statements can help prove discriminatory intent or retaliation. Many successful cases rely on showing a direct connection between a protected activity—like filing a complaint—and the firing. A skilled employment discrimination attorney can help gather the right documentation and build a strong argument.
What You Can Get Out of a Wrongful Termination Lawsuit
A successful claim can result in multiple forms of compensation. Financially, this can include lost wage recovery, repayment of benefits, and coverage for future lost earnings. Non-financial compensation can include emotional distress damages, damage to reputation, and in some cases, punitive damages to punish the employer’s actions. Many employees also secure job reinstatement or reach a favorable settlement without going to trial. An experienced wrongful dismissal lawyer can negotiate aggressively to achieve the best outcome.
The Role of Employment Lawyers in These Cases
Employment law can be complex, with different rules applying at the federal, state, and sometimes local levels. A wrongful termination attorney not only understands these nuances but can also handle communications with your former employer, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if needed. Having legal representation increases the chances of reaching a favorable resolution.
Challenges in Winning a Wrongful Termination Case
Employers rarely admit to firing someone for an illegal reason, and they often prepare defenses that make the termination look legitimate. This means your case must rely on strong documentation and, when possible, witness testimony. Even so, when there’s clear evidence of discrimination, retaliation, or contractual violations, courts often side with the employee.
Steps to Take if You Believe You Were Wrongfully Terminated
Take prompt action—most wrongful termination claims come with tight filing deadlines. Begin by thoroughly documenting the events leading up to your dismissal and saving all written communications. Reach out to a wrongful termination attorney as soon as possible, as getting legal support early on increases your likelihood of safeguarding your rights and obtaining fair compensation.
