Wrongful Termination Lawyers
Although nearly every state is an at-will employment state, there are significant exceptions. Firing someone because of their race, sex, age, disability, religion, or national origin is illegal. So is termination in retaliation for reporting safety violations, filing a workers' comp claim, or refusing to commit an illegal act. A wrongful termination attorney can evaluate whether your firing violated the law and pursue compensation.
Common Situations
- Termination based on discrimination (race, sex, age, disability)
- Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting violations
- Firing for filing a workers' compensation claim
- Termination in violation of an employment contract
- Constructive discharge (forced to quit due to intolerable conditions)
- Termination for exercising legal rights (jury duty, military service)
What to Expect
- 1Review of the circumstances of your termination
- 2Assessment of potential legal claims and evidence
- 3Filing of EEOC or TWC charges if discrimination is involved
- 4Negotiation of severance or settlement
- 5Litigation including discovery, depositions, and trial
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove wrongful termination?
You need evidence that you were fired for an illegal reason — not just an unfair one. This can include discriminatory comments, a pattern of targeting a protected group, timing (fired shortly after a protected activity), or evidence that the employer's stated reason was a pretext.
What compensation can I recover for wrongful termination?
Potential damages include lost wages and benefits (back pay and front pay), emotional distress, punitive damages in some cases, and attorney's fees. The specific damages depend on the legal basis of your claim and the applicable statute.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No two situations are the same — consult a qualified attorney for guidance on yours.
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