Zanesville Wrongful Termination Lawyers

Due to its status as an at-will employment state, an Ohio employer can terminate an employee for almost any reason. There are some unlawful reasons for termination, however, including the individual’s age, race, gender, or disability. Employers are also prohibited from terminating an employee for reporting workplace violations. However, some Ohio employers do engage in discriminatory practices like wrongful termination, resulting in harsh consequences for the employee.

Fortunately, an employee who was wrongfully terminated can bring a claim against employers who engage in illegal practices. If you were recently dismissed and believe that discrimination played a part, you should discuss your situation and options with an experienced employment attorney. You may also find some basic information on wrongful termination cases useful.

Protections Under Ohio Law

There may be a case for wrongful termination where an employer retaliates against a worker for participating in lawful activities, including:

• Pursuing a workers’ compensation claim;
• Jury duty;
• Declining to engage in unlawful conduct;
• Reporting workplace violations; or,
• Taking time off work for reasons covered by statute, such as medical or military leave.

Ohio and federal law also prohibit employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of:

• Race;
• Religion;
• Gender;
• Disability;
• Status as a veteran;
• National origin; and,
• Other characteristics.

Discrimination Claims for Wrongful Termination

Ohio workers who were fired on the basis of discrimination may file a claim with either the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC), or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Determining the best option can be difficult, because there are different reasons and circumstances involved with choosing one agency over the other. An experienced lawyer can work with you through the filing process and during the agency’s investigation.

Implied or Written Promise Claims

Employers are also prohibited from terminating an employee if doing so violates a written or implied promise, including:

• A written agreement to employ the worker for a certain time;
• A verbal promise of continued employment; and,
• Provisions in a written employee manual describing discipline and termination policies.

Though it can be difficult to prove wrongful termination when there is no writing or document, it may be possible to establish a claim through other types of evidence.

Potential Legal Relief

The OCRC and EEOC encourage employees and employers to resolve wrongful termination claims through mediation. Where mediation doesn’t work, a wronged employee may choose to file a claim in court. If successful in establishing wrongful termination, a worker may receive financial damages that include:

• Back wages;
• Front pay;
• Job reinstatement or promotion;
• Compensation for damages resulting from termination;
• Attorneys’ fees; and,
• Punitive damages.

Discuss Your Wrongful Termination Case with a Zanesville Lawyer Today

If you live in or around Zanesville, OH resident and feel that the circumstances of your recent employment termination violate the law, please contact the experienced attorneys at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC. Our employment law team can answer your questions or schedule a case evaluation to discuss your situation.