The answer to the demand payment depends on several factors and the facts and circumstances of a particular case. Losing a job is one of life’s most devasting experience in life for anyone. But being fired or forced to quit your job under unlawful circumstances is one of the worst things that can happen to you. In the case of unlawful termination, an unlawful termination attorney can help to protect employees’ rights.
Lost earning also include bonuses, earning growth, increased pay, cost of living adjustment, promotion, etc. Employees who are unlawfully terminated are legally entitled to benefits in an unlawful termination case. For instance, your employment might be restored; you are entitled to diverse compensation, back pay, legal fees, and other expenses.
Although these claims may be challenging to prove, hiring an unlawful termination attorney can save you from legal action, negative publicity, the cost and time to deal with the likelihood of a settlement.
Medical expenses
The compensation may help with medical expenses and any psychological counseling if needed as a result of emotional distress. Additionally, the amount awarded is also for pain and suffering.
Cost of job search
Job seekers often seek high costs in finding employment after an unlawful termination. The unlawful termination attorney helps you receive the compensation that may help job seekers during job searches that include membership in professional organizations (networking), attending job fairs, travel expenses, wardrobe expenses, etc. Studies have shown that people filing a case against unlawful termination have received a much larger award than those who didn’t claim compensation for job search costs.
Attorney fees
The lawyer also helps to recover the fees paid to attorneys in unlawful termination cases.
Punitive damages
It is the amount that the court may order the employer to pay for actions that are outrageous or egregious. The compensation amount may compensate or reimburse employees for their losses; punitive damages will intend to punish the employer and deter similar behavior by others in the future. These damages aren’t available for all unlawful termination cases; however, the amount of such damages entirely depends on the jury.
Other Factors
When you file a lawsuit for unlawful termination, there is a burden of proof you need for your case. It means, if you claim that you have been unlawfully terminated, you must prove the termination letters and other documents.
For example, if you were sexually harassed or forced to quit because of discrimination, you must collect evidence of discrimination or harassment to prove your termination.
Also, the amount of unlawful termination depends on the type of claim. For example, if an employee exposes the employer for defrauding the government in a whistleblower lawsuit, the amount may quickly add up to millions of dollars.
The experience and caliber of an employment lawyer make a significant difference when it comes to the amount of compensation you may get in your unlawful termination lawsuit.
Pitfalls to avoid
It is better in your interest not to accept the first settlement offer as it will be considered closed, and you can’t seek any further compensation. According to a survey, people who negotiated received twice the settlement amount compared to those who did not. The employment lawyer will help to leverage the evidence to help you secure the best possible settlement. Filling a unlawful termination lawsuit may increase the final settlement amount and increase the chances of receiving compensation. It also triggers the discovery process where evidence is, and uncovering during this process will help you make a stronger position at the negotiating table.
Contact an Attorney
If your employer has mistreated, harassed, discriminated against you, or unlawfully terminated from your job, the right unlawful termination attorney can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Contact an employment attorney to discuss your case and advise you.