Losing a job can be confusing, and more so if you are not sure the reasons for your termination were justified. If you were wrongfully terminated, you may be entitled to legal remedies including compensation, reinstatement or other damages.
It is important to understand that termination is considered wrongful when it violates employment laws. Such instances may include:
Inconsistent treatment of employees
Wrongful termination may be identified through unequal enforcement of company policies based on protected characteristics. For instance, if your employer routinely overlooks attendance issues for employees of one race while strictly enforcing attendance policies for employees of another race, leading to termination, this inconsistent treatment could constitute discrimination.
Retaliatory timing of termination
The timing of termination in relation to protected activities can reveal wrongful intent. If you got fired soon after filing a sexual harassment complaint, requesting FMLA leave, reporting safety violations or revealing a pregnancy, the close timing between the protected action and termination may indicate illegal retaliation.
Bias-indicating workplace comments
A history of biased comments or actions by supervisors and managers can help establish wrongful termination. When your superiors regularly make derogatory remarks about certain religions, express doubts about parents’ work commitment or show clear preferences for specific ethnic groups, these comments – especially when witnessed by others – can demonstrate discriminatory intent behind your termination.
Direct discriminatory statements
A clear indicator of wrongful termination is when your employer makes explicit discriminatory statements, either verbally or in writing, regarding the reason for your termination. For example, if your supervisor says, “We need younger people who can work faster,” or sends emails discussing the need to “bring in more male leadership,” these direct statements can serve as powerful evidence of discriminatory intent.
Consider seeking legal guidance if you feel you have been unfairly terminated based on any of these circumstances. A professional can help assess your situation and explain your options for moving forward.