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When can one file a wrongful termination lawsuit?

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2017 | Employment Law

When an employer deems it necessary, he or she has the right to fire an employee. There are various reasons, though, in which firing is illegal. Michigan residents who have been released from their jobs under any one of the following circumstances may pursue wrongful termination lawsuits in order to seek compensation for their losses.

The first issue that will be discussed is discrimination. Federal law prohibits employers from firing an employee because of his or her race, religion, gender, age, disability or a number of other factors. These are what are called protected classes.

The next issue is retaliation. Those who feel that they are being mistreated in the workplace or who see issues and want to bring them to light should not fear losing their jobs over it. Unfortunately, this does happen. Questioning pay or other aspects of one’s job, or complaining about violations noted in the workplace are not appropriate reasons for an employer to fire an employee.

The final issue that will be discussed is alien status. Numerous immigrants residing in Michigan have the legal right to obtain gainful employment. According to federal laws, employers cannot fire someone based on his or her current immigration status if that person is deemed legally eligible to work in the country.

These are just a few reasons why wrongful termination lawsuits may be brought against employers in Michigan and elsewhere. Proving an employer fired an employee for any of these reasons can be difficult. However, it does not mean it is impossible. Those who have lost their jobs and believe that they are victims of wrongful termination can seek assistance from an experienced employment law attorney who can review their cases and, if appropriate, help them pursue compensation through legal means.

Source: FindLaw, “Wrongful Termination Laws: Illegal Reasons“, Accessed on June 13, 2017