Getting fired is a difficult pill to swallow, no matter the circumstances. However, if you’ve been wrongfully terminated, this can be even more difficult to adjust to.
Every day, hundreds of people around the world are fired and many are fired under illegal conditions. Some individuals are left desperately looking for another job without even knowing that their dismissal was unfair or illegal. Therefore, it’s so important that you educate yourself on the ins and outs of wrongful termination.
Once you can determine whether your dismissal was illegal, you can choose to take legal action against your employer. This can be an important advantage for those who rely on their job as their primary source of income. Here are a few tell-tale signs that you’ve been wrongfully dismissed.
You Were Discriminated Against
Discrimination comes in all shapes and sizes. You can be discriminated against because of your sex, disability, race, sexual orientation, or age. However, these cases tend to be quite hard to prove, so make sure to collect as much evidence as possible before you decide to sue an employer. One more thing: There are also serious time limits associated with discrimination complaints, so don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer.
Your Employer Violated Public Policy
In this instance, you could sue your employer for terminating a contract after forcing an employee to commit an illegal act, such as submitting a fraudulent tax document. Moreover, if your employer has indeed violated public policy, you are in your right to report any wrongdoings without the fear of losing your job, this is also known as whistle blower protection.
You Were Defamed at Your Workplace
Defamation involves damaging an individual’s reputation, typically in the form of slander or libel. If you want to make a claim for defamation in the workplace, you must prove that the statements said about you were false. You must also act relatively quickly as these types of claims need to be filed within 12 months of the defamatory statements or actions.
You Were Fired Under Unfair Employment Practices
Unfair employment practices include a breach of good faith. For example, if your employer fires you because they want to replace you for someone cheaper, this is illegal and can be a reason for suing. If you believe that you were fired due to unfair circumstances, make sure to contact an experienced employment lawyer that can help you decide whether you have a case or not.
Your Employer Violated Your Contract
Another clear example of wrongful termination is when an employer breaks their contract and fires you. If your contract states that you must be given three months’ notice before being fired, but you only receive two months’ notice, this is grounds for a wrongful termination case.
All in all, dealing with a wrongful termination can be extremely stressful. The key is in trying to take each day as it comes. And always make sure you speak to a legal professional to help guide you through the process.
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