When Can You Sue Your Employer For Wrongful Termination?

Employees are fired from their jobs every day. In some cases, they are aware of the reason they got fired. In others, they may feel a bit confused but may still accept the termination. If you believe you were fired for an unfair reason, you have rights. Connecticut is an at-will state, meaning employees can be fired anytime and for any reason.

However, there are exceptions to this law. The reason can be anything, as long as it is not illegal. For instance, one cannot terminate an employee simply because of their race or ethnicity. If the reason for your termination is illegal, you should contact an attorney from Carey & Associates, P.C. today. 

In which situations can you sue your employer for wrongful termination?

• Discrimination. 

If the employee is wrongfully terminated from his job, he can sue his employer if he believes his termination is based on his religion, color, sex, pregnancy status, national origin, disability, etc. The employee can also sue the employer for violation of other protected characteristics mentioned under federal and state laws. 

• Written promises. 

Some employers provide their employees with a written promise which protects their job and provides security. It is a kind of agreement that the employee can not be fired, and his job is safe and protected. These written promises are legal and can be enforced in a court of law in case of any wrongful termination. 

• Breach of employment contract. 

The employment contract may exist in two forms. It can be implied or written. If such a contract exists, and the employee is fired without a reasonable cause, the employer is said to breach the contract. The employee may have a valid claim in a court of law. 

• Violation of public policy.  

An employer can not violate any public policy while firing his employee. It is illegal, and the employee can claim the offense before the jury. Violation of public policy may be any reason that society considers an illegitimate ground for work termination. 

• Constructive discharge. 

A constructive discharge is a situation where the employee is left with no choice but to quit the job. This happens when the employer creates such circumstances which is intolerable for the employee, and he is left with no choice at all. 

• Retaliation. 

Employers are not permitted to retaliate against employees. It means that if you were doing an activity that is legally protected, and that activity caused your employer to act and you bear the consequences, you have a right to file a claim against them.