Losing a job is hard, especially when it feels unfair. While most workplaces aim to be fair, there are still plenty of toxic ones where discrimination happens more often than we’d like to think. When you’re wrongfully let go, it’s tempting to move on and find a new job quickly.
After all, dealing with a painful situation isn’t easy, and starting fresh can seem like the best choice. However, you’re protected in situations like these, and knowing what steps you can take can make a real difference. Take a moment to consider your options such as hiring HKM Employment Attorneys before leaving it all behind. In this article, we will go over several steps to take if you’ve been wrongfully terminated.
1 – Review your contract
Before making any big decisions, take a bit of time to go through your employment contract and any company policies you were given. These documents can have important details about what rights you have and what rules the company is supposed to follow if they fire someone.
Your contract might say something about when and why they can let you go, what notice they need to give you, or if you’re supposed to get severance pay. Plus, company policies often lay out the steps they’re supposed to follow in situations like this.
Going through this info helps you get a clearer sense of where things might have gone wrong. If you see the company didn’t stick to its own rules or what’s in your contract, take note of it. Knowing this can give you confidence, whether you’re thinking about legal action or talking things over with the company directly.
2 – Document everything
Right after you’re let go, jot down everything you remember from the meeting. Make a note of who was there, what they said, and the reason they gave for firing you. Even the little details can come in handy later.
Next, gather any related documents you have. This includes the termination letter, emails, performance reviews, or any other messages between you and your supervisors. These can help show what’s been going on with your work and might support your side of the story.
Also, save any texts, call logs, or notes that add to the bigger picture. Keeping a solid record of all these details can make a huge difference if you decide to take action.
3 – Try to settle or get a severance package
If you’re offered a severance package, don’t rush to sign it. Take some time to go over everything carefully. These agreements often have details that could affect you later, so it’s worth understanding all the terms and conditions.
Getting an attorney involved can be a smart move here instead of trying to figure this stuff out on your own. They can help you figure out if the offer is fair and, if needed, work on negotiating a better deal. With a lawyer’s guidance, you’re more likely to feel secure about what you’re agreeing to.
