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Browse our 2 legal questions about Wrongful Termination in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Wrongful termination is a legal term that refers to an illegal employment practice where an employee is sacked from a job in violation of legal protections. This may relate to discriminatory firing, breach of contract, retaliation, or other reasons that contradict federal or state employment laws. In Aurora, like other parts of the US, such employment dismissals are constituted as unlawful. Employees have the right to file a complaint or even sue in court to seek redress if they believe they've been wrongfully terminated.
You might need to seek the help of a lawyer who specializes in wrongful termination under various circumstances. For instance, if you believe that your termination was discriminatory, say based on your race, sex, age, or disability, you may need a lawyer to help you file a claim. Similarly, if you were fired in retaliation for reporting illegal activities in the workplace, or if the termination violates any terms in your employment contract, you'll likely require the assistance of a legal expert. A lawyer will help to understand the nuances of your case, present the strong possible argument, and guide you through the legal process.
In Aurora and across Colorado, specific state and local laws apply to wrongful termination claims. For instance, it is unlawful for employers to dismiss a worker due to 'whistleblowing’ or exercising their rights under workers' compensation laws. The state also adheres to the federal laws regarding discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. A knowledgable lawyer can provide more detail concerning which laws may apply to a specific case.
Start by gathering any documents related to your termination (emails, termination notice, etc.), then seek legal advice. You can also file a complaint with the relevant agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Deadlines vary based on the nature of your claim and the governing laws. Always seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
Proving wrongful termination can be challenging and is often situational. Gather all possible evidence such as emails, witness testimonies, and prior work reports. A lawyer can help you compile a strong case.
In Colorado, which operates under the 'at-will employment' doctrine, an employer can ordinarily terminate an employee at any time, for any reason or no reason at all. However, your employer cannot dismiss you for any reason that is illegal or in breach of your contract.
No, Colorado law protects employees from retaliation, including dismissal, for whistleblowing( reporting unlawful activities) in the company.
If you need legal advice about wrongful termination, consider reaching out to organizations like the Colorado Bar Association, Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Their websites have a wealth of resources including advice on employment laws, how to file a complaint, and lists of reputable choices for legal representation.
If you believe you've been wrongfully terminated, start by collecting all relevant documents and information pertaining to your case. Next, seek advice from an experienced employment attorney to evaluate your options. Should you choose to proceed, your attorney will help you file a lawsuit or navigate relevant agency processes to address your claim. Above all, act quickly to ensure you comply with any deadlines relevant to your case.
