In a time of great uncertainty, our legal team is here to fight for you. If you lost your job due to the coronavirus outbreak and suspect your dismissal may have been unlawful, contact us for a free, no-risk case evaluation.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Most employers have done their best to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic with the well-being of their employees in mind. Unfortunately, others have responded by firing their workers unlawfully.
Employment in the United States is generally “at-will,” meaning workers can be fired at any time, with or without reason or warning. However, there are exceptions to the at-will rule that may constitute wrongful termination.
What Constitutes Wrongful Termination Amid COVID-19?
If you were let go during the coronavirus pandemic for any of the following reasons, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit.
- Bringing Up Safety Concerns: If you were dismissed for bringing up safety concerns to your employer, you may have a claim for wrongful termination. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH) prohibits employers from terminating an employee for filing a complaint about workplace safety.
- Taking Medical Leave: If your employer fires you for taking medical leave, they risk a wrongful termination lawsuit. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) affords eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for, among other things, serious health conditions.
- Obeying a Shelter-In-Place Order: Your employer can’t fire you for following a public policy order without risking legal action. Most states have issued orders that distinguish between “essential” and “non-essential” businesses. If you believe your employer is wrongfully requesting you to go to work, contact our attorneys.
What Damages Are Available in Wrongful Termination Claims?
The victims of wrongful termination may be eligible for damages including:
- Lost Wages and Benefits: Plaintiffs are often awarded compensation for the earnings and benefits they’ve lost.
- Emotional Distress: In some cases, victims are awarded damages for emotional distress (also known as pain and suffering).
- Punitive Damages: In severe cases, the employee may be awarded punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the employer and deter them from engaging in the same behavior moving forward.
How Do I Find Out If I Have a Case?
If you believe your employer may have violated the law in dismissing you from your job, contact our legal team for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. You could be entitled to significant compensation for your hardship.