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Losing a job can be one of the most stressful experiences in life. But when that job loss comes with a nagging suspicion that something isn’t quite right, such as wrongful termination, it can be even more unsettling.
If you have been the victim of a questionable firing, our employment law attorneys at The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC are here to arm you with the knowledge you need to recognize if you’ve been wrongfully terminated and if so, what steps you can take to seek justice.
Signs of Wrongful Termination
Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired illegally, often due to discrimination, retaliation, or a violation of their employment contract. While every situation is unique, there are some warning signs that can indicate you might be the victim of wrongful termination.
Unfair Treatment
One of the initial indicators that you might be facing wrongful termination is unfair treatment. If you notice that your employer is treating you differently compared to your colleagues—without any reasonable explanation—it could be a red flag. Unfair treatment can manifest in various forms, including being assigned less favorable tasks, facing unjust criticism, or being denied opportunities for advancement.
Retaliation
Retaliation is another common sign of wrongful termination. If you recently reported unethical behavior, participated in an investigation, or exercised your legal rights (like taking medical leave), and then found yourself out of a job, you may have been retaliated against. Employers are prohibited from terminating employees as a form of punishment for engaging in these protected activities.
Discriminatory Actions
Discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics is not only unethical but also illegal. If your termination seems tied to any of these factors, it’s critical to take a closer look. Discriminatory actions may include inappropriate comments, exclusion from meetings, or being treated differently compared to others in similar roles.
Steps to Take if You Believe You’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated
Your rights as an employee extend beyond just showing up for work and collecting a paycheck. You have the right to a workplace free from discrimination and retaliation. You also have the right to fight back if you experience unfair treatment, such as wrongful termination. The following are steps you can take if you believe you have been wrongfully terminated.
Documenting Incidents
The first step in addressing wrongful termination is to document everything. Keep detailed records of any incidents that you believe contribute to your wrongful termination. This includes emails, performance reviews, and any written communication with your employer. Detailed notes can serve as crucial evidence if you need to make a legal case.
Filing a Complaint
Once you have documented your case, the next step is to file a formal complaint. This could be through your company’s HR department or an external body like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Filing a complaint can initiate an investigation into your claims and potentially lead to a resolution.
Seeking Legal Advice
Navigating wrongful termination can be complex, and having legal counsel can make a significant difference. An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and guide you through the legal process. Legal advice can also help you decide whether to pursue a lawsuit or seek a settlement.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Experienced Federal Wrongful Termination Attorneys Today
At The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC, we help federal employees in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. This includes those who work from home in these areas. We've represented employees in federal courts, EEOC hearings, and the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.
If you were fired unfairly, we can help. Our team of federal employment law attorneys will fight for your rights and do everything legally possible to secure the best outcome for your case.
Call us at (202) 350-3881 or get in touch with us online today to get started.
