Tampa Wrongful Termination Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Experienced Wrongful Termination in Florida

Experiencing job loss can be one of the most stressful events in a person's life, particularly when that termination is unjust. Wrongful termination often occurs when an employee is fired for illegal reasons or in violation of their rights. This can lead to substantial emotional and financial distress for the individual affected. If you believe that you have been wrongfully terminated, it’s essential to understand your rights and the options available to you.

Call Kwall Barack Nadeau PLLC today at (727) 202-5840 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Tampa wrongful termination lawyer.

What is Wrongful Termination?

Wrongful termination refers to a situation where an employee is fired in violation of federal, state, or local laws or in breach of an employment contract. While most employees in Florida are considered "at-will," meaning they can be terminated for almost any reason, there are specific legal protections that prevent employers from terminating employees based on discrimination, retaliation, or other unlawful reasons.

In Florida, some of the most common wrongful termination claims arise from:

• Discrimination: Employees cannot be terminated based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected categories under the Civil Rights Act and the Florida Civil Rights Act.
• Retaliation: Employees who report illegal activities, file complaints, or participate in investigations that are related to discrimination or harassment are protected from termination. If an employer fires an employee for such activities, it may constitute wrongful termination.
• Violation of Employment Contracts: If an employee has a written or implied contract that outlines specific conditions under which they can be terminated, firing them in violation of that contract may be considered wrongful termination.
• Public Policy Violations: Employees cannot be terminated for reasons that violate public policy, like refusing to engage in illegal activities or exercising their legal rights (e.g., taking family leave).

Examples of Wrongful Termination

Here are several examples:

• Firing After Reporting Discrimination: An employee reports racial discrimination in the workplace. Shortly after, they are terminated without clear justification. This scenario may be classified as wrongful termination because of retaliation.
• Termination Based on Pregnancy: An employee is terminated after informing their employer of their pregnancy. Such action could be viewed as discrimination based on sex or pregnancy.
• Firing for Taking Medical Leave: An employee takes medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and is fired upon their return.
• Violation of Employment Contracts: If an employee has a contract that specifies they could only be terminated for cause and they are fired without a valid reason, this could be considered wrongful termination.
• Political Affiliation or Whistleblowing: If an employee is terminated for their political beliefs or for blowing the whistle on illegal activities within the company, these situations could also be grounds for a wrongful termination claim.

What Proof Do I Need in a Wrongful Termination Claim?

Here are some key elements that can strengthen your case:

• Documentation of Employment: Keep records of your employment, including contracts, performance reviews, and any correspondence with your employer. These documents can provide context for your employment history and the nature of your termination.
• Evidence of Discrimination or Retaliation: Document any incidents that may indicate discrimination or retaliation, like emails, texts, or witness statements. This evidence can help show a pattern of behavior that supports your claim.
• Witnesses: If there were coworkers or supervisors who witnessed any discriminatory behavior or your termination, their testimonies could be valuable in corroborating your claims.
• Company Policies: If your employer has specific policies regarding termination or employee conduct, gather copies of these documents. They can be useful in demonstrating that your termination did not follow established procedures.
• Medical Records or Reports: If your termination relates to a medical condition or leave, having relevant medical documentation can support your claim.

Contact Our Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Tampa Today

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, taking action quickly is essential. The laws governing wrongful termination can be complex, and there are stringent deadlines for filing lawsuits. At Kwall Barack Nadeau PLLC, we are dedicated to advocating for employees who have experienced wrongful termination.

We understand the challenges you face during this difficult time and are committed to helping you seek justice. We will evaluate your case, gather and review necessary evidence, and guide you throughout the legal process. Don’t navigate this situation alone; contact our Tampa wrongful termination attorney today for a consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact Kwall Barack Nadeau PLLC today to get started with our Tampa wrongful termination attorney.