Employees in Pennsylvania have legal protections under state and federal employment laws. If you believe you’ve been wrongfully dismissed, you may have the right to file a claim against your employer. Our experienced wrongful termination attorneys in Scranton, PA, are here to safeguard your rights and guide you through the legal process.
What Constitutes Wrongful Termination?
Pennsylvania operates as an “employment-at-will” state, allowing employers to terminate employees for almost any reason. However, this does not give employers the right to break laws or violate public policies. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer dismisses an employee for reasons such as:
- Discrimination: Termination based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
- Retaliation: Firing an employee for reporting workplace violations, filing complaints, or engaging in legally protected activities.
- Breach of Contract: Violating termination terms outlined in an employment contract.
- Violation of Public Policy: Dismissing an employee for participating in legally protected activities, such as filing for workers’ compensation.
If your employer’s actions fall into these categories, you may be entitled to file a wrongful termination claim.
Wrongful Termination Due to Discrimination
State and federal laws prohibit employers from terminating employees based on discriminatory factors such as:
- Race, color, or national origin
- Gender or sexual orientation
- Religion
- Age
- Disability
Examples of discriminatory termination include:
- Being fired after reporting discriminatory workplace practices.
- Termination following inappropriate or offensive remarks from your employer.
- Dismissal despite being more qualified than peers promoted in your place.
If you suspect your termination was due to discrimination, detailed documentation is essential. Records of emails, conversations, and performance evaluations can strengthen your claim.
Wrongful Termination Due to Retaliation
Employers cannot retaliate against employees who exercise their legal rights, including:
- Reporting workplace violations or unsafe conditions.
- Filing for workers’ compensation or other employment benefits.
- Participating in investigations of employer misconduct.
Retaliation may manifest as:
- Unwarranted demotions or negative performance reviews.
- Reduction in hours, pay, or benefits.
- Exclusion from workplace opportunities or events.
- Harassment or bullying.
- Termination.
If you’ve experienced retaliation, a skilled lawyer for wrongful termination in Scranton, PA, can help protect your rights and hold your employer accountable.
Legal Remedies for Wrongful Termination
A successful wrongful termination lawsuit can result in several remedies, including:
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits.
- Damages for emotional distress or pain and suffering.
- Reinstatement of your position.
- Injunctive relief to prevent further violations.
- Punitive damages in cases of egregious misconduct.
Get Help From a Skilled Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Scranton, PA
While employers may seem to have the upper hand, workers have specific legal protections under Pennsylvania law. If you believe your rights have been violated, you need an experienced wrongful termination attorney to assess your case and advocate on your behalf.
At Saffren & Weinberg, our lawyers for wrongful termination in Scranton, PA, are dedicated to helping employees seek justice and fair compensation. Contact us at (215) 576-0100 or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation today.
Disclosure:
This website is designed to provide only general information. The information presented on this website is not formal legal advice. You should not rely on any general information from any source for making legal decisions. Each legal matter is unique and requires specific attention from a qualified and experienced attorney. Unless a representation agreement has been signed with Saffren & Weinberg, we are not your legal representatives.