Employment in Minnesota is typically on an at-will basis, which means that either the employer or employee can end the employment at any time for almost any reason. However, there are certain reasons for an employer to terminate an employee that are unlawful. If you were fired, a Minnetonka wrongful termination attorney may be able to help.
At Madia Law, we have been helping employees who have been wrongfully terminated or suffered other workplace injustices for years. Reach out to us through our website or by giving us a call today to learn more about your options through a free consultation with one of our Minnetonka employment lawyers.
What Is a Wrongful Termination?
A wrongful termination is when an employer fires an employee in an unlawful manner. Because Minnesota is an at-will employment state, the reasons for firing an employee that fall into this category are limited. The most common wrongful termination cases handled in the state include:
- Discrimination-based firings
- Firings as retaliation against an employee for reporting discrimination
- Terminating employment after an employee files a workers’ comp claim
- Retaliating against whistleblowers
- Dismissing employees for taking medical leave
Discrimination-Based Firings
Discrimination in the workplace is a common problem faced by a variety of different groups. Workers can face discrimination at every stage of employment, from hiring to firing. Unfortunately, proving discrimination is often a challenge.
When dealing with a discrimination-based firing, showing the motivation behind the dismissal can be challenging, especially since at-will employment in Minnesota allows employers to terminate employment without cause.
Hiring an experienced Minnetonka wrongful termination lawyer can be critical in these situations. Your attorney can investigate your employer to prove a pattern of discrimination to support your case.
Retaliation Over an Employee Reporting Discrimination
In addition to it being unlawful for employers to terminate employees due to discrimination, they are also not permitted to fire employees for reporting discrimination. If you lost your job after reporting workplace discrimination to human resources, a supervisor, or an outside agency, you may have been the victim of retaliation.
Termination Related to Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
If you are injured on the job, you are entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer’s insurance to recover damages. If, after filing, you are fired from your position, you may be able to file a claim against your employer for retaliation.
Retaliating Against Whistleblowers
The law puts protections in place for whistleblowers who report illegal activity by their employers so that people can feel safe about coming forward. Speaking out against your employer can be difficult; you should have to worry about losing your job on top of the other challenges you’ll face.
Dismissal for Taking Medical Leave
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that allows certain employees to take up to 90 days off from work in a calendar year for medical leave for themselves or to care for a family member. If your employer terminates your employment after you take legitimate medical leave, you may have a case for wrongful termination.
An experienced lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and pursue the full value of your claim.
For a legal consultation with a wrongful termination lawyer serving Minnetonka, call 612-349-2729
A Minnetonka Wrongful Termination Lawyer Can Help You File Your Case on Time
When attempting to recover compensation after being wrongfully terminated from your job, you need to understand that there are limitations on the amount of time you have to file a claim or lawsuit. Paying attention to the filing deadlines is critical for protecting your right to recover damages.
If pursuing a lawsuit or filing a claim with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, you will have one year to take legal action. Alternatively, if you plan to file under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or Title VII, you will need to submit a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days.
However, exceptions may apply to your case that alter the amount of time you have to take legal action. Speaking with an experienced attorney as soon as possible is the best way to protect your right to pursue damages.
Minnetonka Wrongful Termination Lawyer Near Me 612-349-2729
Additional Protections Offered by an Employment Contract
Because Minnesota is an at-will employment state, the majority of workers are employed without a contract. However, a small portion of the workforce does work under an employment contract.
If you have a contract with your employer, it might provide you with additional protections aside from those available to all employees in the state. The wording in your contract will likely state the circumstances under which employment can be terminated. If your employer fires you in violation of the terms of your contract, you can pursue legal action.
If you believe your firing was not in line with the terms of your contract, an experienced attorney can review the employment contract to determine whether or not a violation occurred. If you were unlawfully fired, your lawyer will work to ensure a favorable case result either by negotiating a settlement agreement or taking your case to trial.
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Work With an Experienced Wrongful Termination Attorney in Minnetonka Today
When pursuing legal action against your employer after being fired, securing the services of an experienced Minnetonka employment attorney will greatly improve your odds of getting the money you need and deserve. At Madia Law, we are ready to fight for you. We have a proven track record in the courtroom and are never afraid to take a case to trial.
Contact us today through our website or over the phone and schedule a free case evaluation with a member of our legal team.
Call 612-349-2729 or complete a Case Evaluation form
