Losing your job is devastating, and it's natural to wonder whether your employer had the right to fire you. Most employment in the U.S. is "at-will," meaning your employer can let you go for almost any reason — but there are important exceptions. If your firing violated a law, a contract, or public policy, you may have a wrongful termination claim.
If you were fired because of your race, gender, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, national origin, or other protected characteristic, that's illegal under federal and state anti-discrimination laws.
Your employer can't fire you for filing a workers' comp claim, reporting safety violations, blowing the whistle on illegal activity, taking FMLA leave, or participating in a workplace investigation.
If you have an employment contract or union agreement that specifies termination procedures or "for cause" requirements, and your employer didn't follow them, you may have a breach of contract claim.
Save emails, performance reviews, written warnings (or lack thereof), and any communication about why you were fired. This evidence is critical if you decide to pursue a claim.
Most discrimination claims must be filed with the EEOC within 180–300 days. Other claims have their own deadlines. The sooner you consult an employment lawyer, the better your chances.
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