If you have been fired or forced to quit your job, you may be wondering what recourse, if any, you may have. Florida is an at-will employment state, which means your employer can fire you at any time for almost any reason, or no reason at all. This does not mean that wrongful termination can’t occur. There are some instances which constitute wrongful termination, but proving it can sometimes be difficult.
What is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination usually occurs when someone is fired in a discriminatory way. It may also be wrongful termination if you were fired in retaliation for making a complaint with the company or authorities, either of business practices or something personal like sexual harassment. An employer cannot fire you for these reasons. While an employer is not likely to say that they fired you for those reasons, they are usually apparent with some investigation.
Proving Wrongful Termination
If employers can fire you without giving a reason, how can you prove wrongful termination? Usually, wrongful termination cases are proven through investigation and reporting of events leading up to the termination. It is fairly easy to prove that you blew the whistle on a manager just before being fired. Your job performance and history with the company can also come into play. If you have been an exemplary employee and are suddenly fired after making a report of sexual harassment, for example, this is a clear indication of wrongful termination.
Hiring the Right Attorney
Hiring an attorney is the best way to fight a wrongful termination case. Employers generally have high quality legal teams working for them, and it is important that you have an experienced lawyer working for you. If you aren’t sure if a case of wrongful termination can be proven, talk to an attorney to discover your options in your case.
If you have been fired or forced to quit your job due to discrimination or retaliation, contact our offices today for a consultation. We are experienced in proving wrongful termination and fighting corporate lawyers to work for you.