If you work in New Jersey you are employed “at will.” This means you can be fired at any time, with or without cause. On the other hand, you cannot be fired for an illegal or discriminatory reason. If you suspect that you were fired illegally, it is essential to have an experienced wrongful termination lawyer.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, we have extensive experience negotiating and litigating wrongful termination cases. If you have been fired because of your protected status, in breach of an employment contract, or for complaining about wages, discrimination, or harassment, you may have a valid wrongful termination claim.
When you meet with us, we will take the time to understand your circumstances, determine whether your termination was lawful, and choose the best course of action. You can depend on us to work in your best interests at all times and protect your rights. Being fired is never pleasant; being wrongfully terminated is illegal. Contact our office today to learn how we can help.
What is Wrongful Termination In New Jersey?
Under applicable employment laws, employers are allowed to terminate employees for performance reasons, and there is no reason to show just cause for dismissal. By contrast, your termination may be unlawful if it violated federal or state equal employment opportunity laws, breached an employment contract, or violated public policy. Even though New Jersey is an at-will state, circumstances that may lead to a wrongful termination claim, include:
Wrongful Termination Due to Discrimination
Employers are barred from terminating employees based on a wide range of legally protected characteristics under federal and state law as discrimination, including:
- Age
- Race
- Religion
- Color
- National origin
- Disability
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Military/veteran status
Proving that you were terminated for a discriminatory reason is challenging because employers have the upper hand when firing employees and know how to disguise their illegal motives. By working with our capable wrongful termination lawyer, however, you can hold your employer accountable, obtain just compensation, and even prevent others from being fired illegally.
Written Contracts/Implied Promises
If you were employed under a written employment contract that established a set time period for the project and grounds for dismissal, you cannot be fired at will. In addition, you may have a valid wrongful termination claim if your employer made implied promises, particularly if you have emails or other evidence that supports your claim. While an employee handbook is not typically considered a contract, you may also have a legal basis for a claim if it does not specify grounds for termination. You can trust our wrongful termination lawyer to prove breach of contract and protect your rights.
Violations of Public Policy
In New Jersey, you cannot be fired at will for exercising a legal right or performing a community action, such as voting, serving in the military, or jury duty.
Breach of Good Faith/Fair Dealing
Your employer cannot fire you to prevent you from receiving an earned bonus or sales commission. A breach of good faith and fair dealing may also arise if your employer forces you out or makes your work conditions unpleasant to avoid paying severance. If you were forced to quit, our wrongful termination lawyer will work to hold your employer accountable and fight to protect your rights.
Whistleblower Retaliation
Under federal and state laws, employers are prohibited from terminating employees who complain about or report unlawful conduct, discrimination, harassment or wage violations, safety violations, or participate in other legally protected activities.
How NJ Employment Lawyers Can Help With Your Wrongful Termination Claim
If you believe you were fired illegally, let our legal team handle all the details. We will conduct a thorough investigation, interview any witnesses, obtain and review your personnel file, negotiate a reasonable settlement with your employer, or file a wrongful termination lawsuit if necessary.
Above all, we will work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Because reinstatement may not be practicable or desirable, we will fight to win you damages such as:
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Lost benefits (e.g. bonuses, health insurance)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Attorneys’ fees and court costs
If we can prove that you were terminated for a discriminatory reason or for blowing the whistle, you may also be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish your employer’s misconduct. You can depend on us to get you the financial resources you need and protect your right to earn a living.
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Wrongful Termination Attorney
Despite the fact that New Jersey is an at-will employment state, you are protected against being fired illegally. This is time to contact NJ Employment Lawyers. We have a track record of successful outcomes and will always be on your side.