Columbia, MD Wrongful Termination Attorneys

Lawyers for Wrongful Termination Cases in Columbia, MD

The termination of employees is a regular part of business for employers. However, there are some situations where an employee may be fired illegally. When an employee is terminated for reasons that violate state or federal law, they may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim. The legal issues involved in these cases can be complex, and employees who need to address wrongful terminations can make sure their rights are protected by working with a knowledgeable employment law attorney. At Freedman Law, LLC, we provide comprehensive legal support for employees who have been wrongfully terminated, and we can also provide assistance for employers who have been accused of illegally terminating employees.

What Constitutes Wrongful Termination?

While Maryland is an at-will employment state, meaning that either the employer or employee can end the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, there are important exceptions. Employers cannot terminate employees for reasons that are discriminatory, retaliatory, or in violation of public policy.

Some common reasons why an employer may wrongfully terminate an employee include:

• Discrimination: Terminating an employee based on race, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics is illegal under both federal and state laws.
• Making a Sexual Harassment Complaint: Employees have the right to report sexual harassment without fear of retaliation. If an employee is fired after filing a complaint about sexual harassment, this may be considered a wrongful termination.
• Reporting Illegal Activities or Workplace Safety Issues: Whistleblowers who report legal issues that they have observed in the workplace, such as fraud or violations of environmental laws, are protected from retaliation. Similarly, employees who raise concerns about workplace safety, such as unsafe working conditions or violations of OSHA regulations, are protected from retaliatory termination.
• Engaging in Other Protected Activities: Employees are also protected when they engage in activities such as taking family or medical leave or requesting accommodations for disabilities. If an employer terminates an employee for participating in these or other legally protected activities, the employee may take legal action in response.

How Employees Can Address Wrongful Termination

It is important for employees who have been wrongfully terminated to understand the steps they can take to address the ways they have been affected. While the emotional and financial impact of losing a job can be overwhelming, taking the right steps can help an employee achieve justice, and they may be able to recover compensation for their financial and personal losses. Some of the options available to wrongfully terminated employees include:

• EEOC Complaint: If a termination was based on discrimination or retaliation, an employee can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The EEOC will investigate a claim, and it may provide mediation services to help the employer or employee resolve the issue. If the EEOC determines that a wrongful termination likely occurred, it may authorize the filing of a lawsuit against the employer.
• Wrongful Termination Lawsuit: If the EEOC determines that a lawsuit is justified, it will issue a "Right to Sue" letter. The employee may then file a wrongful termination lawsuit against their employer. If the court rules in favor of the employee, it may order the employer to reinstate the employee to their former position, require the employer to compensate the employee for back pay and lost benefits, or order the employer to pay damages for the employee's emotional trauma or other ways they have been affected.
• Settlement: Some wrongful termination claims may be resolved through negotiations without proceeding to litigation. Our experienced attorneys can help you negotiate a settlement that addresses your financial losses and other damages.
• Seeking Injunctive Relief: If you wish to prevent further harm, you may ask the court to issue an order that will require your employer to cease any retaliatory or discriminatory practices.

The team at Freedman Law, LLC is committed to helping wrongfully terminated employees explore these legal options. We understand that every case is unique, and we provide personalized legal counsel to help you achieve the ideal outcome to your situation. Whether you choose to pursue litigation or seek a negotiated settlement, we will advocate on your behalf while fighting to protect your rights.

Representing Employers in Wrongful Termination Cases

Wrongful termination claims can have serious legal and financial consequences for employers. These accusations can damage a company's reputation, and resolving issues through litigation can be costly. At Freedman Law, LLC, we can provide legal representation for employers who have been accused of wrongful termination, helping them navigate the complexities of employment law while working to protect their interests.

If a wrongful termination claim leads to litigation, our attorneys can help develop an effective defense strategy. We will work to demonstrate that a termination was lawful and justified. We can also help employers negotiate fair and equitable settlements, and we will strive to resolve disputes effectively while protecting our clients' interests.

Contact Our Columbia, Maryland Wrongful Termination Lawyers

In cases involving wrongful termination claims, the attorneys at Freedman Law, LLC can provide effective legal support for both employees and employers. We understand the complexities of employment law, and we are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients, whether they are employees seeking justice or employers defending against allegations of wrongful termination. Contact us at 410-290-6232 to set up a consultation. We have offices in Columbia, Rockville, and McLean, and we work with clients in Maryland and Virginia.