Losing a job is always stressful, but when a termination is unlawful, it can have devastating emotional and financial consequences. Additionally, with the intricate employment law of Dallas and its rise in workplace conflict, many do not know where to go for representation, or if they were even terminated unlawfully. This comprehensive guide highlights the scenarios to consult a wrongful termination lawyer in Dallas and the key mistakes that employees make after wrongful termination.
Scenarios That Necessitate a Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Dallas
Wrongful termination attorneys in Dallas are important when the foregoing situations arise in any of the following scenarios:
- Discrimination Based on Protected Characteristics:
Principally, employees who are terminated based on their race, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, pregnancy, or genetic information are subject to wrongful termination under federal law and Texas law. Statutes put in place by Title VII, ADA, and the Texas Labor Code provide robust protection. Discrimination lawyers in Dallas build a case from direct and circumstantial evidence, work history, etc., to prove discrimination and restore justice to employees wronged.
- Retaliation for Reporting Harassment or Illegal Activity:
Employees are safeguarded against retaliation from employers for complaints about workplace harassment, violations of safety, discrimination, or wage theft. If you are fired after “whistleblowing” or filing an internal or external complaint to the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission, then a wrongful termination lawyer in Dallas will assist with reinstatement, damages, and the restoration of your reputation.
- Violation of Employment Contract Terms:
An employee may also sue for wrongful termination if they were terminated in violation of an employment contract. There are many examples of firing an employee without cause or justification under an employment contract that required one, or not providing an employee with severance that was agreed to or promised at hire. A wrongful termination lawyer in Dallas often represents employees who are fired in violation of a written employment contract, a non-compete agreement, or a confidentiality agreement.
- Layoffs and Reductions in Force That Violate the Law:
While layoffs and restructurings are not uncommon in the workforce, laws such as the WARN Act require employers to provide a warning before a mass layoff occurs. Discrimination becomes a consideration if an employer lays off older workers or employees who are members of a protected class. Discrimination lawyers in Dallas will look for violations in employer communication, employee demographics, and proposed layoffs.
- Wage, Overtime, or Benefit Disputes Leading to Termination:
A wrongful termination lawyer in Dallas investigates cases involving employees who were terminated based on protected activity where the employee was exercising a right to overtime pay, minimum wage, or earned bonuses or commissions, or benefits from an employer. Attorneys will investigate an employee’s time records, as well as communication, to build the case against an employer.
- Breach of Workplace Policies and Internal Procedures:
In some instances, terminations are in direct violation of the employer’s handbook or specific policies stated by human resources. Skipping essential steps in progressive discipline, the procedures for internal investigations, and failing to allow an opportunity to respond to allegations are violations the employment attorney will point to. The employment lawyer will hold the company accountable for not following its own rules.
Key Mistakes Employees Make After Wrongful Termination
A sudden termination can create chaos for anyone. To protect legal rights and maximize your claim, avoid the following mistakes:
- Failing to Preserve Evidence: Too often, employees do not obtain or preserve evidence of communications, disciplinary action, or events leading to termination. It is important to preserve evidence to pursue a legal claim.
- Accepting Severance Before Having It Reviewed by a Lawyer: If you sign a severance or release, you may be giving up valuable legal rights. Always have a wrongful termination attorney in Dallas evaluate and review your documents.
- Not Filing by Deadlines: Each state has a requirement that discrimination or wrongful termination claims be filed soon after the termination, sometimes in just weeks. Missing these deadlines could destroy your chances of pursuing justice altogether.
- Relying on General Advice or Self-Judge: The wrongful termination and discrimination lawyers in Dallas are the only ones who are able to advise you based on the detailed employment laws and the complex tactics of the employer.
Conclusion
Various work situations in Dallas demand the involvement of professionals who understand the law in order to protect their rights and future. A wrongful termination lawyer in Dallas has the skill to guide your case and get you a fair resolution. Mijares Law Group is known throughout Dallas for fighting for employees’ rights and has a reputation for in-depth compliance review of contracts and workplace policies. Reach out for a confidential review and take control of your employment journey with trusted legal support.
Safeguard your career and dignity—contact Mijares Law Group today for results-driven advocacy in wrongful termination and workplace rights cases.