When Should I Call A Wrongful Termination Lawyer?

If you believe you were fired illegally, you may be feeling a mix of anger, frustration, and confusion regarding what to do next. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of federal or state law. If you suspect your firing was unlawful, consulting an attorney is a critical first step. The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline is experienced in representing employees facing wrongful termination and can help you build a comprehensive strategy.

You may need a wrongful termination lawyer if you were fired for any of the following reasons:

• You believe you were fired for discriminatory reasons.
• You were let go after reporting illegal activity or harassment.
• Your termination violated the terms of your employment contract.
• You notice a pattern of biased firings at your company.

Was I fired for discriminatory reasons?

Federal and Illinois state laws protect employees from discrimination based on certain characteristics. If you were fired based on a protected status, you may have a wrongful termination case. Proving discrimination can be challenging, as employers rarely admit to bias. However, an attorney can help build a case by examining the circumstances surrounding your termination and the demographic makeup of your former workplace.

Common protected characteristics include:

• Race, color, and national origin
• Sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation
• Religion
• Age (40 and over)
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Pregnancy status

If you were fired shortly after your employer learned about a protected characteristic, such as a pregnancy or a newly disclosed disability, this timing can serve as evidence in your claim.

Could my termination be a form of retaliation?

Retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in a legally protected activity. You cannot be legally fired for actions such as reporting workplace harassment, filing a workers’ compensation claim, or acting as a “whistleblower” by reporting illegal conduct within the company. For example, if you were terminated shortly after making a formal complaint to HR about sexual harassment, you might have a case for retaliatory discharge. An attorney can help you connect your protected action to the employer’s decision to fire you.

How can a lawyer help with my complex employment situation?

Employment law is intricate, and filing a claim without professional legal assistance can be a difficult battle. Employers often have significant resources and legal teams to defend their actions, which puts individual employees at a major disadvantage.

An experienced wrongful termination lawyer understands the nuances of employment law and knows what it takes to build a compelling case. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with your former employer on your behalf.

Can a pattern of behavior strengthen my case?

Demonstrating that your termination is part of a larger pattern of your employer’s discriminatory or retaliatory behavior can substantially strengthen your case. For instance, if your former employer has a history of firing employees right before they become eligible for retirement benefits or stock options, it suggests a motive beyond your individual performance. A lawyer can help investigate these patterns and use them as evidence to support your wrongful termination claim, proving that your firing was not an isolated incident but part of a systemic issue.

Contact An Attorney to Discuss Your Options

If you feel you have been wrongfully terminated, you don’t have to face your former employer alone. Seeking timely legal advice is crucial to protecting your rights and exploring your options for recourse. An experienced lawyer brings valuable insight, strategic guidance, and a commitment to seeking a favorable outcome for your case.

The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline provides knowledgeable and compassionate representation to clients throughout the Chicago area. We are dedicated to asserting your rights and will work tirelessly to create an effective strategy for you. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case.