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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 in Rochester Hills, United States, refers to the unlawful firing of an employee in a way that breaches one or more terms of the labor laws or employment contract. It includes situations where an employee was fired based on discrimination, as a form of retaliation, violation of company policy, or fired without good cause.
Getting legal advice may be crucial if you believe you've been wrongfully terminated. Common situations include being fired due to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. If you were terminated as a retaliation after you have reported your employer's illegal conduct, or if you were dismissed for refusing to commit an illegal act on behalf of your employer, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. They will guide you through all legal steps involved to ensure you get justice and potentially reinstatement or monetary compensation.
The State of Michigan, which includes Rochester Hills, practices the 'at-will' employment rule, meaning employers can terminate an employee for nearly any reason. However, employers cannot fire an employee for an illegal reason, such as discrimination or retaliation. Michigan's Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination, while the Whistleblower Protection Act protects from retaliatory termination. If dismissal involves one of these protected categories, the termination might be wrongful.
'At-will' employment means that an employer can fire an employee for any reason, or no reason at all, as long as it's not illegal, such as discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. Similarly, an employee can leave the job at any time without providing any reason.
If you can prove you were fired unlawfully, you may be able to sue your employer for wrongful termination. A qualified attorney can provide guidance on possible legal recourse based on your specific case.
Compensation can include back pay, front pay, job reinstatement, promotion if you've been passed over illegally, damages for emotional distress, and punitive damages. The exact compensation will vary depending on your case details.
For most federal laws, you generally need to file a claim within 180 days from when the termination occurred. Michigan's state laws may offer slightly different timelines, so consulting with a local attorney is highly recommended.
The law forbids employers from retaliating against employees who exercise their employment rights. If you're fired for this reason, you may have grounds for a retaliation claim.
For more information on wrongful termination, resources such as the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provide extensive information about your rights and how to file a claim. For local resources, Rochester Hills' local labor board is a good starting point.
If you believe you've been wrongfully terminated, your first step should be to consult with a knowledgeable attorney specialized in employment law. Collect and secure evidence of your claim, including emails, texts, witnesses, and documentation related to your dismissal. With your attorney, explore the possible grounds for your wrongful termination case and understand your legal options.
