It is always stressful to lose a job. The event can lead to self-doubt and can create financial problems for families. And while there are a broad range of reasons Ohio employers can legally let workers go, there are also instances of illegal termination.
Legal reasons to fire a worker include safety concerns, poor worker performance, and economic concerns for the business. But if you feel you were let go and the firing was a wrongful termination, a Columbus employment attorney can help. Note that employers will generally not expressly provide an unlawful basis for terminating an employee, but their unlawful / wrongful reason may still be proven.
Protect Your Rights and Know When Firings Are Illegal
You, as an employee of an organization, have rights. You have a right to be compensated fairly and to not experience abuse or discrimination within your workplace. If you have been a victim of discrimination or wage theft, there is a path to justice. An employer is not able to fire you simply for exercising your rights as an employee.
If you are fired, ask for the reason for your termination in writing. Then, when moving forward with a case, you and your Ohio employment lawyer can assess the company’s reasoning. It is also possible they will give a reason at trial that does not match the reason given within the termination letter. That strengthens the employee’s case.
In situations where you see the possibility of a firing ahead, save all texts and emails that make you feel uncomfortable or you believe are inappropriate. Also save performance reviews and note any shift in job duties.
Employees cannot be fired for the following reasons:
- Age discrimination
- Discrimination based on national origin, sex, religion, gender, or race
- Disability discrimination
- Retaliation for an employee reporting discriminatory practices
- Retaliation for filing or pursuing workers compensation benefits
- Reporting safety concerns, issues, and problems
- Accommodation requests due to a disability
- Use of Family and Medical Leave Act
- Employee military service
- Reporting illegal behavior
- Participating in labor organization
- Childbirth or pregnancy
Do Not Yell at Your Boss, Stay Calm and Focused
Emotions can run high when an employee is fired. It is important to remain calm and focus on achieving justice with a clear head. Yelling at a boss is not helpful. Instead of threatening to sue, simply avoid a scene and collect documentation to strengthen your claim in the future.
Besides, if you do move forward with an Ohio wrongful termination lawsuit and you cursed out your boss when you were let go, your employer could claim aggressive behavior was the reason for your dismissal. Emotional outbursts could help your former employer, not you.
If you have been treated unfairly, you deserve legal representation. When meeting with a Columbus employment attorney, your legal options for justice will be discussed. There are statutes of limitations in place, so do not delay.
Were you fired for an illegal reason from your Ohio job? Contact the lawyers at Coffman Legal LLC. We are strong and committed advocates for all Ohio workers and use our experience and knowledge to help you. Call 614-949-1181 for a free and confidential consultation to determine if you have a legal claim for wrongful termination.
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