Losing your job is never easy. It can be a difficult experience and also be frustrating if you were fired for the wrong reasons.
What are the wrong reasons? An employer cannot fire an employee in violation of state or federal laws. This includes firing due to discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment and in violation of similar laws.
If you were wrongfully fired from your job, there are steps you can take to seek justice against your past employer. If you want to take action:
- Take notes and keep records. Keep copies of all the documents you receive regarding your firing. Additionally, keep a copy of any contracts you have signed, whether at the beginning of your job or when you lost your job. This includes non-competes and similar agreements. If you are emailing or texting your former boss about your loss of your job, keep a copy of those communications. All of these records can help you later on, especially since memories can fade over time.
- Record phone conversations. New Jersey is a one-party consent state. This means that if you are in a phone conversation, you can record it. Similarly, you can record conversations if you have the permission of only one party. Recording can help ensure that any conversations are preserved and can help you build evidence for your case.
- Work with a lawyer. If you were wrongfully fired, an attorney can help you bring a wrongful termination lawsuit against your former employer. This type of lawsuit can be complicated, so it is important that you work with an experienced, local lawyer to build your case and advocate on your behalf.
If you are not sure if you have a case or should take action, you should speak with an employment attorney who represents employees.
