How Do You Respond to an Unfair Termination?
By Corey Hanrahan
How do you respond to an unfair termination? Receiving a termination letter is an emotional and often destabilizing event that impacts not only you, but your family as a whole. When that decision appears unfair or even unlawful, the impact on one’s psyche can be even more profound.
The first step after suspecting a wrongful termination is to understand your rights. Termination laws vary by state and can be complex, adding to the stress of the situation. However, familiarizing yourself with the basics can be a good first step. Often times the best place to start is by consulting an experienced employment law attorney to help analyze your potential case.
In fact, finding an experienced employment attorney can be your strongest move. They can assess whether your case has legal merit and advise on the best path forward, which might involve negotiation, filing a lawsuit, or possibly filing a claim in arbitration. But you will need to provide the attorney with information for him or her to analyze your case. So what can you do to help.
“…an experienced employment attorney […] can assess whether your case has legal merit and advise on the best path forward…..“
Consider the Grounds
Consider the basis for which you believe you were terminated. Were you terminated due to complaints of discrimination, retaliation, harassment, or for reporting unlawful behavior? Were you terminated because of your sex, age or race? Considering the grounds is crucial as it shapes the legal strategy, and will help you provide the attorney with necessary, pertinent information.
Document Everything
Documentation is extremely important in almost any employment case. As I always say, “document… document… document!” Start a detailed log of events leading up to your termination and keep all relevant paperwork. Note any discriminatory comments or actions and document your job performance as well, as oftentimes the employers point to “poor performance” as the reason for termination.
Seek Comfort from Others and Prioritize Self-Care
Don’t go at it alone. Share your feelings with close friends, family, or a therapist. Surrounding yourself with a support network can help to validate your feelings and provide a sense of solidarity. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or a hobby, focusing on self-care is essential to maintain your emotional well-being during this challenging time.
Moving Forward
Ultimately, navigating an unfair termination is about balance. You need to address the injustice, but you also need to take care of your well-being during the process. Take this opportunity to reflect on your goals and your career path. This might be the right time to reassess what you want and areas for personal or professional development. Maybe even consider new opportunities. Don’t let one unfair event define your professional future. Use your newfound time and energy to seek out new job opportunities. Fresh perspectives can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths. Also, continue to network and maintain your professional relationships. You never know when these contacts might lead to your next career move or provide valuable advice as you proceed through the legal process.
By taking a proactive and balanced approach to an unfair termination, you can work through the associated turmoil and come out the other side much stronger. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always a way forward. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, contact The Hanrahan Firm. We have years of experience representing employees that have been wrongfully terminated. We always offer free consultations.
