Losing your job can be overwhelming, especially if you suspect it was unfair or illegal. Wrongful termination is when an employer fires an employee for illegal reasons. Knowing your rights under the law of Arizona can help you determine if you have a valid legal claim.
What qualifies as wrongful termination?
Arizona has specific laws to safeguard employees. Knowing these laws can help you act if you think your employer wrongfully fired you.
- Public policy violations: employers cannot fire employees for protected activities. This includes voting, serving on a jury, or fulfilling military duties. If your employer fired you for any of these reasons, they might have violated your rights.
- Retaliation: If you report illegal activities at work, the law protects you. Federal and state laws prohibit retaliation. Employers cannot fire you for filing a claim. They also cannot fire you for reporting discrimination or safety concerns.
- Discrimination: discriminatory firing is illegal under both federal and Arizona state laws. Employers cannot fire you for your race, gender, or sexual orientation. They also cannot fire you for your age, disability, religion, or other protected traits.
- Breach of contract: if your employer fires you, it may be a wrongful termination. Understanding the terms of your contract is crucial in these situations.
- Taking time off: certain laws protect your right to take time off for personal or medical reasons. Under the FMLA and Arizona law, it is illegal to fire an employee for taking protected leave. You may have a wrongful termination claim if your employer fired you while on leave.
Next steps
Consulting with an experienced attorney may be beneficial if you suspect wrongful termination. Proving wrongful termination can be complex. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the process and fight for your rights.
Understanding wrongful termination in Arizona is essential for protecting your rights. The first step is to know your rights and the specific protections under both federal and state laws.