Being fired from a job is never easy, but it’s even more painful when the termination is unfair or unlawful. While New Jersey is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers can generally terminate employees for any reason, there are important exceptions. If you’ve been fired for discriminatory reasons, retaliation, or in violation of an employment agreement, you may have a case for wrongful termination.
What Qualifies as Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for reasons that violate state or federal laws. Some examples include:
- Retaliation for reporting harassment or discrimination
- Termination based on race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics
- Firing an employee for requesting medical or family leave
- Violating the terms of a written employment contract or company policy
Even if your employer gives another reason for your dismissal, it may still be considered wrongful if the true motive is illegal.
Your Rights Under New Jersey Law
The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) and other state and federal laws protect employees from being fired for exercising their legal rights. This includes whistleblower protections, family and medical leave rights, and protections against discrimination and harassment.
If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and even reinstatement to your former position.
How to Take Action
If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated, here’s what you should do:
- Gather documentation, including performance reviews, emails, and termination letters
- Write down a detailed account of the events leading up to your termination
- Request a copy of your personnel file if available
- Contact an employment attorney to review your case
The sooner you act, the more likely you are to preserve key evidence and meet any applicable deadlines.
Experienced Legal Help Is Just a Call Away
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys have a long-standing track record of helping wrongfully terminated employees fight back. Serving clients throughout Fairfield Township and across New Jersey, their firm is known for aggressive legal advocacy, deep knowledge of employment law, and a client-first approach that gets results.
Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, they’ll help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney Today
New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
