Getting fired from your job can be one of the worst experiences of your life. If you brought the action upon yourself, it should not come as a surprise. However, if you were let go from your job, and you feel like the actions were unjustified, you may have the ability to file a wrongful termination claim. Before you proceed, you’ll need some crucial pieces to bolster your case.
Documentation
Your claim is just hearsay without the necessary documentation. To get started, you’ll have to have times, dates, places, and witnesses of all forms of unfair treatment by your employer. If you can see the issue coming ahead of time, it’s best to keep a record of any questionable activity leading up to your termination. You can ask the human resources department for your personnel file. It’s better to be proactive than not to have any documents when you’re fired. Ask for details in writing explaining the reasons for your separation.
Quality Attorney
A reputable lawyer who specializes in unfair employment practices is crucial to a successful claim. The lawyer will have more extensive knowledge of discrimination and labor laws to strengthen your argument. You will want to work with lawyers that work on a contingency agreement, meaning they will only be paid if the case is won. It’s going to cost a bit of money for a quality attorney, but the price is worth it if you win the case.
Support
Take advantage of personal and professional help when you are going through this process. Losing your job can cause a lot of anxiety and stress, especially if you did not deserve it. Mental health professionals, such as forensic psychiatrists, are explicitly trained in legal applications to psychological stress. These professionals can also help you prove to a court how the stress of the wrongful termination has affected your life. Then, along with your family and friends, they can help you cope and create a successful strategy to get back on track.
Plan
If you decide to pursue legal action, you need to have a concrete and logical plan. A lackadaisical approach will be a waste of time and money. Gather your ideas quickly, as you only have 180 days from the date of termination to file a claim. Work with your support network to get help with childcare, finances, and other household duties while you work on the claim.
The saying “when one door closes, another one opens” is a good piece of advice when facing a wrongful termination. While this is a difficult situation, you can find opportunities that you might not have otherwise. Stay calm, and do not act impulsively against your employer. Instead, remain determined to uphold your reputation and dignity.
Author information: Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
