Steps to Take if You’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated in Arizona

Losing a job can be a devastating experience, especially if you believe you were wrongfully terminated. In Arizona, there are laws in place to protect employees from being fired for unlawful reasons. If you think that your termination was unjust, it’s important to understand the steps you should take to protect your rights. Wrongful termination can happen for various reasons, such as discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract. Knowing what actions to take can make a big difference in your ability to seek justice and get the compensation you deserve. At, Smith & Green, Attorneys At Law, P.L.L.C., we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.

Quacy L. Smith

Founding Partner

James M. Green

Founding Partner

Understand the Reason for Your Termination

One of the first things you should do if you’ve been fired is to find out the reason for your termination. In Arizona, most employment relationships are considered “at-will.” This means an employer can let an employee go for almost any reason, or no reason at all, as long as the termination doesn’t violate any laws. However, there are several situations where termination is considered illegal. These include firing someone because of their race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, or age. Termination may also be wrongful if it was done in retaliation for reporting unsafe working conditions or illegal activity, or if it violated the terms of an employment contract. Ask your employer for a clear explanation of why you were fired. If the reason seems suspicious or doesn’t align with the law, you might have a case for wrongful termination.

Document Everything Related to Your Termination

If you believe your termination was unjust, it’s important to start documenting everything related to your employment and the events leading up to your firing. Documentation can include emails, letters, performance reviews, or any other communication between you and your employer. It’s also helpful to take notes on any verbal conversations or meetings that occurred before your termination. These records can serve as evidence if you decide to pursue legal action. Additionally, keep any paperwork that your employer gives you when they fire you, such as your termination notice or severance agreement. These documents could provide key information about the reason for your firing and whether it complies with Arizona’s employment laws. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case may be.

Know Your Employment Rights in Arizona

In Arizona, certain laws protect employees from being wrongfully terminated. One of the most important is the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in the workplace based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Arizona also has its own state laws that offer protection to employees, including laws that prevent retaliation against workers who file complaints or report illegal activities. Additionally, if you had an employment contract that outlines specific terms regarding your job security, termination may be wrongful if it violates those terms. Understanding these laws can help you determine if your rights were violated when you were fired. If you suspect that your termination was based on discrimination, retaliation, or a breach of contract, you may have grounds to take legal action against your employer.

File a Complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

If you believe your termination was the result of discrimination, one of the steps you should take is to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination. In Arizona, employees have 300 days from the date of their termination to file a complaint. Filing a complaint with the EEOC is a critical step in pursuing a wrongful termination claim, as the agency will investigate your case and determine whether your employer violated any anti-discrimination laws. If the EEOC finds evidence of wrongdoing, they may attempt to resolve the issue through mediation or refer your case to the courts for further action. Make sure to act quickly, as there are strict deadlines for filing with the EEOC.

Seek Legal Advice from an Employment Lawyer

Navigating a wrongful termination case can be complex, and the laws surrounding employment can be difficult to understand. Seeking legal advice from an employment attorney can help you make sense of your situation and determine the best course of action. A lawyer will review the details of your case, assess the evidence you’ve gathered, and advise you on whether you have a valid claim for wrongful termination. They can also help you negotiate with your employer or represent you in court if necessary. Working with an attorney increases your chances of receiving compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages related to your firing. In Arizona, an attorney who is experienced in handling wrongful termination cases can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

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Consider Negotiating a Settlement

In many wrongful termination cases, employers may be open to negotiating a settlement to avoid going to court. Settlements can provide you with compensation for lost wages, benefits, and other damages without the need for a lengthy legal battle. If you’re open to resolving your case through settlement, it’s important to have an attorney on your side to guide the negotiations. Your attorney can help ensure that any settlement agreement is fair and covers all of the damages you’ve suffered as a result of your termination. In some cases, an employer may offer a severance package, but it’s important to review the terms carefully before accepting. Your lawyer can help you understand the terms of any settlement offer and advise you on whether it’s in your best interest to accept or continue pursuing your claim in court.

Prepare for Litigation if Necessary

If you are unable to reach a settlement with your employer, the next step may be to pursue litigation. Filing a lawsuit for wrongful termination can be a lengthy and stressful process, but it may be necessary to get the justice and compensation you deserve. In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful termination lawsuit is typically two years from the date of your firing, although the exact time frame may vary depending on the specifics of your case. If you decide to move forward with litigation, your lawyer will guide you through each step of the process, from filing the necessary paperwork to representing you in court. While lawsuits can take time, they can also result in significant compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages if you win your case.

Understand the Damages You May Be Entitled To

If your wrongful termination claim is successful, there are several types of damages you may be entitled to. These can include back pay, which covers the wages and benefits you lost as a result of being fired. You may also be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, especially if your termination caused significant mental or emotional suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if your employer’s conduct was especially egregious. Additionally, if you had to seek new employment, you might be entitled to compensation for the costs associated with your job search, such as training or relocation expenses. An experienced attorney can help you determine what damages you may be entitled to based on the specifics of your case.

Stay Calm and Focus on Moving Forward

Being wrongfully terminated can be a stressful and emotional experience, but it’s important to stay calm and focused as you navigate the next steps. While it can be tempting to act out of anger or frustration, keeping a level head will help you make informed decisions that are in your best interest. Take the time to gather your thoughts, document your case, and seek legal advice before making any major decisions. By staying focused on your goals, you can increase your chances of receiving compensation and moving forward with your career. Remember that you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you during this difficult time.

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated in Arizona, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. At Smith & Green, Attorneys At Law, P.L.L.C., we understand the challenges of facing wrongful termination and are here to help you navigate the legal process. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next steps in your case. You don’t have to go through this alone—Smith & Green is here to fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the justice you deserve.