Annapolis Based Wrongful Termination Attorneys
Serving Clients Throughout Maryland, the DMV Area, North Carolina, and Federal Employees Throughout the U.S.
If you are an employee who entered into a written employment agreement with your employer that sets out a specific period of time for employment, or sets out other specific terms of employment, such as what would provide a basis for termination, you may have a breach of contract claim against your employer if those terms were not adhered to.
Discover How Our Annapolis Attorney Can Assist You Contact Us Today at (240) 734-3033. Hablamos español.
Claims Against Your Employer When You Are Fired or Your Workplace Becomes So Unbearable That You Quit
Whether you have a contract with your employer or are an employee “at will,” you may have claims for wrongful termination if you were terminated due to your status as a member of a protected class, including age, sex, sexual preference, gender identification, disability, pregnancy, race, color, religion, national origin, or if you have been terminated for complaining about discrimination or participating in complaint processes. (Certain state or local government laws may provide additional protections in the workplace, such as for political affiliation, veteran status, and other bases).
Further, there are federal and state laws that provide an employee a right to be free from retaliation when they have complained about safety in the workplace, rights of employees, wage violations, workplace injuries, and fraud/waste/abuse.
Moreover, your workplace may have become so unbearable that you were forced to quit. If the actions taken against you by your employer were severe enough and/or pervasive enough that it prompted you to quit, and the actions were driven by discrimination or retaliation; you may have claims against your employer for “constructive” termination/discharge.
Understanding Your Rights in Wrongful Termination Cases
Navigating the complexities of wrongful termination can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already facing the emotional toll of losing your job. At the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding your rights is the first step in seeking justice and compensation for your wrongful termination claim.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your rights:
- At-Will Employment: Maryland is an at-will employment state, meaning employers can terminate employees for almost any reason. However, there are exceptions, such as discrimination or retaliation.
- Protected Classes: Employees are protected from termination based on race, gender, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. If you believe your termination was based on any of these factors, you may have a valid claim.
- Whistleblower Protections: If you reported illegal activities or unsafe conditions in your workplace, you are protected from retaliation. Employers cannot fire you for being a whistleblower.
- Employment Contracts: If you have a contract that outlines the terms of your employment, including termination, it’s crucial to review it. Breaching a contract could provide grounds for a wrongful termination claim.
Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation to discuss your situation and explore your potential claims.
FAQ: Wrongful Termination and Employee Rights
What qualifies as wrongful termination?
- Termination based on discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract.
What is at-will employment, and how does it affect my rights?
- Employers can generally terminate employees for any reason, except for unlawful reasons like discrimination or retaliation.
What are protected classes under employment law?
- Age, gender, sexual preference, disability, pregnancy, race, religion, national origin, and more, depending on local laws.
What is constructive termination?
- When a work environment becomes so unbearable that an employee is forced to resign due to discrimination or retaliation.
Do I have a claim if I was fired for being a whistleblower?
- Federal and state laws protect employees from retaliation for reporting illegal activities or unsafe conditions.
Can I file a claim if my employment contract was breached?
- Yes, if the employer failed to adhere to the terms outlined in your employment agreement.
What should I do if I believe I was wrongfully terminated?
- Gather evidence, document events, and consult an experienced employment attorney.
We Can Help You Assert Your Rights
The Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo, LLC has decades of experience representing employees in their wrongful termination claims and ensuring that employees preserve their claims in a timely manner.
Discover How Our Annapolis Attorney Can Assist You Contact Us Today at (240) 734-3033. Hablamos español.