Losing a job is hard enough—but losing it unfairly? That can feel like a punch to the gut. Unfortunately, wrongful termination happens more often than many people realize, and most employees aren’t sure what qualifies as “wrongful” or how to respond when it happens.
So, let’s break it down: Here are the top five reasons employees are wrongfully terminated—and what you can do if it happens to you.
1. Retaliation for Reporting Wrongdoing
If you reported illegal behavior at work—like harassment, unsafe conditions, or discrimination—you’re legally protected from retaliation. That means your employer can’t fire you just because you spoke up.
Still, it happens. Many employees are let go shortly after filing complaints or “rocking the boat.” If your termination came after you raised concerns, that could be a red flag.
2. Discrimination Based on Protected Characteristics
It’s illegal for employers to fire someone because of their race, gender, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, or sexual orientation. Even in states with “at-will” employment laws, these protected categories still apply.
If you’ve been let go and suspect your identity played a role, especially if offensive comments or unequal treatment happened beforehand, you may have a case for discrimination.
3. Taking Protected Leave
Employees have legal rights to take time off for certain situations—like medical leave (under FMLA), pregnancy or childbirth, or caring for a sick family member. If you were fired while on leave or right after returning, your rights may have been violated.
Employers may try to disguise it as “downsizing” or “restructuring,” but if the timing seems too convenient, it’s worth looking deeper.
4. Whistleblowing
Blowing the whistle on illegal or unethical company practices is risky, but the law protects you. If you were terminated after exposing fraud, financial misconduct, or public safety violations, that’s not just wrong—it’s potentially unlawful.
Whistleblower laws vary by state and industry, but they exist to prevent employers from silencing the truth through termination.
5. Breach of Employment Contract
If you had a written or implied employment agreement—and your employer fired you without just cause or without following the terms—you might be dealing with a breach of contract. This is especially relevant for employees with offer letters, union protections, or company handbooks outlining specific procedures.
What You Can Do
First: Stay calm and gather evidence. Save emails, write down conversations, and note any suspicious timing around your termination. Don’t sign anything (like a severance … Read the rest