If you have recently been fired and believe your employer terminated your employment for an illegal reason, you might have grounds to file a wrongful termination claim and recover compensation. One question you may be asking yourself if you believe you have a valid wrongful termination claim is whether you need to hire a lawyer.
So, do you need a lawyer for a wrongful termination claim? You are not legally obligated to hire an attorney to file a wrongful termination claim in New Jersey. However, it is highly advisable that you hire an attorney. Your chances of success will be much higher if a qualified wrongful termination lawyer represents you. Wrongful termination claims can be complex, so it is not a good idea for you to handle your case alone without legal representation.
Do You Really Have a Wrongful Termination Claim?
Companies in New Jersey employ people “at will.” This means a worker can quit their job anytime without offering a cause or explanation to their employer. It also means an employer can terminate a worker’s employment at any time for any reason or no reason. However, New Jersey employers are prohibited from firing workers for illegal reasons. If a worker is fired for an unlawful reason, they can file a wrongful termination claim.
It is vital that you are sure you have a legitimate wrongful termination claim. The following are the circumstances under which you may have a valid wrongful termination claim;
Termination in breach of contract: If you worked under an employment contract and your contract included specifications on what kind of conduct could result in termination, you may have a wrongful termination claim if your employer fired you for a reason not contained in the contract.
Termination based on illegal discrimination: It is unlawful for an NJ employer to fire an employee based on, among others, the following characteristics;
- Age
- Religion
- Color
- Disability
- Pregnancy
- Sexual orientation
- National origin
- Race
Retaliation: It is against the law for employers to retaliate against employees, for, among others, the following reasons;
- The employee taking leave under the FMLA
- The employee blowing the whistle about unlawful conduct
- A disabled employee requesting a reasonable accommodation
- The employee filing a worker’s compensation claim
Why You Need a Wrongful Termination Lawyer
If you have been wrongfully terminated, it is vital that you work with an attorney who understands state and federal laws that protect employees against illegal actions by employers. It’s crucial that you work with a lawyer who understands court rules and procedures. Without such an attorney by your side, you may be at a huge disadvantage.
Apart from helping you navigate the legal complexities involved in a wrongful termination claim, a skilled attorney will know what evidence you need to gather to win your case and will help you gather that evidence. Additionally, an experienced lawyer will know how to present evidence and prevent your employer and their legal counsel from using unfair tactics to win their case.
Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation
If you believe you have a valid wrongful termination claim and are looking for a qualified attorney to help you file your claim and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve, contact our New Jersey employment lawyer at The Trabosh Law Firm.